
Miscellaneous insects

Wood boring insects

Rodent control

Wildlife
Definitions & Information
Bats
When are Bats a problem?
Bats become a problem when they enter your home-often through an open door or window, the attic, or by way of your chimney. Besides creeping everyone out, they also leave droppings everywhere. And they are loud. You don’t want a Bat in your house!
How do they get in your house?
They will fly in an open window or door, but they also will find openings in the siding, eaves, flashing, etc, of your home. Even a very small opening could be enough for a Bat to sneak in.
When are Bats active?
They are nocturnal, and usually Bats hibernate in the winter.
Are Bats blind?
No, although many think they are. They do rely on echolocation for navigation.
What is echolocation (bio sonar)?
Echolocation is the location of objects by reflected sound. Bats emit a high pitched noise that will reflect off of objects and the sound waves come back to the Bat, helping the Bat to locate the target. Echolocation would help a Bat to not fly into a tree, for example. And echolocation is used by a Bat to find food.
What diseases are Bats known to carry?
People often only worry about rabies related to Bats, and that is founded. But another disease to be concerned about is histoplasmosis. This disease comes from Bat droppings, that have grown spores, and these spores affect human lungs when we breathe the fungus in. Quick Bat removal is very important, and so is clean up of the Bat droppings.
What do Bats eat?
Bats eat insects. They prefer moths, mosquitos, and beetles.
Are Bats helpful to humans and the ecosystem?
YES! Bats are a hugely beneficial species, which people sometimes forget, because Bats are so darn creepy! But the amount of insects consumed by Bats is extremely beneficial. Bats are just as good at pest control as Sheridan Pest Control! Bats also help pollinate particular plants. We need Bats.
Does exclusion help?
Exclusion is a good idea on any home, helps with a variety of pests, and will help with a Bat problem. Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 for help with exclusion.
Can I ignore Bat in my house?
No. You do not want a Bat inside your home. The threat of disease, the droppings everywhere, the noise, and the unsettling feeling people get when they know a Bat is nearby are all solid reasons for calling a professional quickly to take care of that Bat.
Is there an effective Bat repellent?
No. Repellents do not work. Dont waste your money.
Do Bats like it in my house?
No. Bats want out. There is no food or water for them inside. They are most likely lost and confused.
Could having 1 Bat mean there are others?
Yes. Bats sometimes hang in colonies. Attic inspections, and exclusion are very important.
For anything Bat related, call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162. We would love to come out and help you! We mean that.
Bed Bugs
What do Bed Bugs feed on?
Blood. Exclusively. Yuck!
How large are Bed Bugs?
Small enough where you might not even notice them feeding on your body-4-5 mm.
What color are they, and what do they look like?
Red to reddish brown. They are flat, and oval in shape. Nymphs (babies) are translucent.
How do I know if I’ve been bitten by a Bed Bug?
You will usually have swelling. But if you’ve been bitten by many, it can also turn into a red sore.
Where do Bed bugs live when they aren’t attached to a human host?
Nearby. They don’t go far, but you can usually find them in mattress creases, in furniture, in electrical sockets, in dressers, in vehicles, amongst clutter, or in luggage. They will definitely harbor in a variety of places.
Can they travel from one unit of a building to another?
Yes. They can enter openings in walls, and make their way up, down, or to either side.
How do I know if I have a Bed Bug problem?
- You will see bites on your skin.
- You will see their skins that they have shed.
- You will see their feces.
- You will see blood.
- You will see the bugs themselves.
How did they get into my living area?
They likely hitchhiked from somewhere else.
How can I be proactive about Bed Bugs?
- Take care of all clutter.
- Inspect all luggage, furniture, clothing, and linens that you are bringing into your home.
- Be careful when traveling, and continue to do frequent inspections. Its much easier to take care of the problem early.
- Inspect other peoples belongings that are coming into your home.
- Always wash and dry linens at the hottest temperatures available.
If I suspect that I have a Bed Bug problem, what do I do?
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 as soon as you suspect a Bed Bug issue. Its so much easier to handle a Bed Bug problem early, instead of late. Sheridan Pest Control will inspect, assess, offer our strategic plan, implement, and continue to monitor. Its important to note that its usually not a 1 step process.
Bees
- They make honey to feed their young.
- They might chase you 1/4 of a mile if they are excited enough! Or mad enough!
- Their stingers hurt!
- Many types of Bees do die after stinging someone because when the stinger leaves the Bees body, it tears away part of their own abdomen. However, Bumble Bees can sting more than once.
- Pollen, and nectar are the main food sources for Bees.
- Bumble Bees will nest in the ground, near your patio or deck, in your attic, or in your roof beams.
- Bumble Bees will aggressively protect their nests. Be careful!
- Bumble Bees help pollinate other plants, and crops.
Killer Bees
Killer Bees are not a problem in New York State.
- Honey Bees are found all over the world.
- Honey Bee nests can last for years. Honey Bees huddle for warmth in the winter, and eat honey for survival.
- Honey Bees are helpful pollinators.
- 1 sting only and a Honey Bee dies. And oh boy is it painful!
- Honey Bees flap their wings at a extremely rapid pace, and this is why you hear such a prominent buzzing noise.
- Honey Bees mainly nest in trees, but occasionally in attics or chimneys.
For help with any type of Bee (or any other pest), please call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162. We want to help you before you get stung!
Carpenter Ants
What do they look like?
Carpenter Ants are the larger, blacker ants very commonly seen. Sometimes they have wings.
Where can they be found?
Carpenter Ants build nests in wood…Preferably damp wood. Inside they will most often be found under sinks, around windows and doors, or anywhere where it is damp. Outside they will commonly be found in trees, stumps, or woodpiles.
What do they eat?
Carpenter Ants are opportunists and will eat honeydew, insects, sugary liquids, among other things. They generally forage for food at night.
What are the signs of infestation to look for?
“Frass,” or a sawdust like material is a telltale sign of a Carpenter Ant infestation.
What type of damage do they do?
They hollow out wood, and over time they threaten the structural integrity of your home.
Carpenter Ant facts:
- They are bigger, and darker black than most ants you see.
- They are drawn to damp wood, and old wood.
- They can be found inside the house, outside the house, and anywhere on your property.
- They do not eat wood, but instead burrow into it.
- Over time, they can/will threaten the structural integrity of your home.
They are different than termites, and their nests looks different.
- They are different than powder post beetles, and their damage looks very different.
- Sometimes you can pinpoint Carpenter Ant activity by seeing “frass,” or a sawdust like material on baseboards, or on the floor.
- They have been known to nest: under tarps, in insulation, in trees, in stumps, in woodpiles, etc.
- They will be drawn to sweet substances (like sugar), or any other type of human food.
They will damage your home. And although it may not be overnight, over time they will wreak havoc on your most expensive investment. The bottom line is that you should not let Carpenter Ants go.
Carpenter Bees
What do Carpenter Bees look like?
They resemble Bumble Bees. They are about 1 inch long, and sometimes seem metallic or shiny.
What is a telltale sign of a Carpenter Bee infestation?
- Circular holes-they “drill” almost perfect circular holes in wood. They prefer unfinished wood. They do not eat the wood, but they do displace it.
- Look for “frass,” or sawdust. Frass can often be another telltale sign of wood-boring insect activity.
- You will often see the male Carpenter Bees flying, somewhat frantically, around the openings in the wood. They do not sting.
What time of year are you most likely to have a problem with Carpenter Bees?
Late spring or early summer (usually, but not always).
Do you have to take care of the Carpenter Bees fully before sealing the holes they have opened on your home?
Yes. Do not close them in the walls of your home. They will chew their way out in other areas.
Do I need to seal up the holes previously caused by Carpenter Bees?
Yes. They will re-use the holes/tunnels in subsequent years.
Why do I have Carpenter Bees?
They are drawn to unfinished wood. They are known to attack decks, eaves, wood siding, porches, wooden furniture, unfinished wooden poles, etc.
Do I have to take care of my Carpenter Bee problem?
Yes. If let go, the problem will continue year after year, with the Carpenter Bee population growing each year. And the damage, and number of entry/exit holes will continue to multiply.
What do I do if I notice Carpenter Bees around my home?
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935- 7162, and we will come over to do an assessment, and propose a treatment strategy.
Chipmunks
- They are related to Squirrels.
- They are much smaller than Squirrels (around 8 inches long).
- They are very active during the day.
- They eat nuts, berries, flowers, leaves, seeds, and some insects.
- Chipmunks have several distinct stripes on their body, and they are very easily identifiable.
- Chipmunks generally burrow underground. But they have the capability to climb.
- Chipmunks do carry food in their cheeks!
- They are less active in the winter, and hibernate in their burrows.
- They are impressive gatherers of food.
Those circular holes you see in your turf often come from Chipmunks (and sometimes Squirrels).
- They reproduce twice a year-Early spring and summer.
- The damage a Chipmunk causes to your home will be under stairs, around foundations, patios, and retention walls. They will also mess up the landscaping/lawn something fierce!
- Chipmunks will enter your home a lot less than Squirrels, but it can happen.
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 for help with your Chipmunk problem!
Cockroaches
- They are incredibly resilient and can go long periods of time without food, or water.
- They can run very fast. Sometimes up to 3 mph.
- They have been around since the dinosaur age.
- They spread lots of bacteria and can seriously contribute to asthma attacks, and allergies, if they are in your home.
- They can survive cold temperatures, but do prefer to be in warmth near food and water.
- They will eat almost anything. Including food, plants, and other insects. And sometimes books, paste, and flour.
- They prefer the dark.
- They like damp areas.
- They contaminate food by shedding their skins. YUCK!
How do you prevent a Cockroach infestation?
By keeping living areas clean, well lit, and dry.
If my home is spotless, can I still end up with Cockroaches?
Yes, unfortunately. Cockroaches can come from neighbors, restaurants nearby, garbage areas nearby, sewers, and they even hitch rides on items brought into your home from somewhere else.
Are there different types of Cockroaches?
Yes. But we aren’t going to bore you here with a bunch of text you aren’t interested in reading.
What do I do if I see a Cockroach?
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 immediately. This is not a job for a homeowner. Its not a 1 time service call. Its an ongoing process. You need our expertise!
Mice
Why do Mice make their way inside your home?
Mice are opportunists, and will migrate indoors looking for food, warmth, and comfort.
How do they get inside?
Mice can get inside through any hole or crack, and they can fit through openings as small as a dime.
How do you know you have Mice in your home?
- You will hear them running on pipes, ductwork, or in the ceilings and walls.
- You will see droppings.
- You will see nesting.
- You will see where they have entered your home. Often you can identify gnaw marks.
- You can sometimes see grease marks they have left behind in heavily traveled areas.
- The pets will go crazy.
What are the common areas that Mice target to enter your home?
- Holes in the foundation, siding, soffits, or windows/doors.
- Under closed garage doors.
- Through garage doors that stay open for extended periods of time.
- Through opened doors.
- They will follow pipes inside.
- They will chew their way inside.
- They will enter through drain pipes, sewers, sump pump pits, etc.
Why is it a really bad idea to ignore Mice in your home?
- They go to the bathroom everywhere.
- They carry disease.
- They will chew wiring and cause a fire.
- They are covered in Ticks.
- They multiply quickly (2 Mice can become 100 in 30 days)
- The stress of having a rodent/s inside is heavy, but unmeasurable.
- They get into your human food, and pet food.
What do you do if you think you have Mice?
Call (518) 935-7162 Sheridan Pest Control for a free assessment. A Mouse problem is not a problem you should ever ignore.
* Mice are much smaller than rats.
* Mice are amazing runners, climbers, swimmers, and jumpers.
* Homeowners often make mistakes when setting their own mouse traps which can lead to frustration and a rapidly growing Mouse population.
Moles
Where do Moles live?
They are subterranean. Moles live underground. Where else do they live? In your lawn!
What do Moles eat?
Most insects. Primarily earthworms, but they will eat most insects. Having a Mole does not mean you have a Grub problem.
How do you know when you have a Mole, or Moles?
Mole tunnels are very easily identified, and common. And mole tunnels underfoot will make footing uneven, and will make the ground feel spongy. Stepping wrong on a Mole tunnel, or Mole hill, can quickly break an ankle, or cause an unexpected fall.
Besides leaving dangerous, and uneven ground everywhere, what other problems do Moles cause?
They will ruin your turf. And sometimes very quickly. 1 Mole can cause 100 feet of damage in 1 day. That beautiful lawn can be turned into a mess almost overnight! *Remember-Moles don’t eat plants or plant roots, but they kill plants (grass) indirectly by tunneling underneath them.
Why is it a really bad idea to let Moles go?
Moles multiply. Usually in the early spring. One year you’ll have 1 or 2, and the next year you can have 8-10.
Why do Moles come over from my neighbors lawn?
Moles travel. And they don’t care about property lines. They tunnel to food. BUT a big reason why Moles come over from next door is the use of Mole repellent. Its very, very common for a homeowner to use a Mole repellent to drive Moles elsewhere (next door).
Does Mole repellent really work?
Some Mole repellent does work, but only for a short time. The Moles may be driven away, but they will come back.
Why do Moles seem to multiply every year?
See “Why is it a really bad idea to let Moles go?”
What is the ONLY way to take care of a Mole problem properly?
Moles have to trapped, and taken away.
Do Moles die in the winter?
NO. They live year round, and burrow deeper underground when it gets cold.
Do internet home remedies for removing Moles work?
NO. Stop wasting your time and money. Dont buy the ultrasonic noise makers. Dont bother with moth balls. Dont try ground pepper. And please don’t dump gasoline in the tunnels and set fire to your lawn.
That last one seems like a no brainer, but you might be surprised….
Call Sheridan Pest Control 518-935-7162 for help with your Moles. Because we are the Mole masters! We love being on Mole patrol!
Powderpost Beetles
Why are they called “Powderpost Beetles?”
Definitely a damaging wood-boring insect, Powderpost Beetles get their name because if given enough time, they can reduce large pieces of wood to a powder.
What material do they target?
Wood. Usually dry, untreated wood. An example would be large support beams, wooden furniture, wood flooring, or wooden cabinets.
How do you know if you have a Powder post Beetle problem?
1 sign would be a fine powder on the floor underneath damaged wood. Another sign would be multiple, very small, pin sized holes (exit holes) in exposed wood.
How can you tell old activity from new/current activity?
You can try to assess the appearance of the exit holes. If they look older and weathered, you may be looking at old damage. If you see frass, or a fine powdered dust, you can clean it up, and monitor the area post cleanup. If the powder returns, you have an active infestation.
What do you do if you have Powerpost Beetles?
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162, for an assessment, and treatment.
Racoons
- Raccoons are generally nocturnal.
- They have a dense undercoat of fur to help keep them warm in the winter.
- Oh boy are they smart!
- Raccoons have extremely dexterous front paws.
- Raccoons eat plants, animals, and insects.
- In the wild, Raccoons generally live for 1-3 years. Death is usually caused by a vehicle, or hunter.
- They are one of the most distinctive looking animals in existence (because of their facial mask).
- Raccoons live in hollowed out trees, rock walls, brush piles, and they sometimes use abandoned burrows made by other animals.
- Raccoons begin to reproduce in late winter. Females give birth in April or May.
- Female Raccoons are VERY protective of their babies.
- Raccoons are cute!
- Raccoons do carry some diseases, including rabies.
When do Raccoons become a problem for homeowners?
- When they tear apart your garbage.
- When they ruin your garden.
- When they enter your home.
- When they trash your bird feeders.
- When they tear apart your siding, shingles, or chimney flashing.
What do I do if I have raccoons inside my home (attic)?
Call Sheridan Pest Contro (518) 935-7162. If you have a raccoon inside your attic, there is a good chance you have a momma and her babies. Tread lightly. Call us!
Rats
There are 2 common types of Rats in the USA
Norway Rats, and Roof Rats. In New York State we are typically dealing with Norway Rats.
What do Norway Rats look like?
They are between 13-16 inches long, grey in color underneath, and brownish on top with some black coloring. Their ears are hairless. Yuck!
How could I prevent a potential Rat problem?
Sanitation, and exclusion. Keep your building sealed, and keep your living areas clean!
How do I take care of a Rat problem?
By calling Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162! We will identify the nests, and trap and bait. This is typically not a job for the inexperienced home owner, or a maintenance worker.
Will smell become an issue?
Yes! Rats are larger than Mice, and if the dead bodies of Rats are left laying around, they will quickly begin to smell very badly! You will notice. The bodies need to be removed.
When are Rats most active?
At night. But if populations are very high, you will see more daytime activity.
Where do Rats live?
They like to burrow underground to stay safe from natural predators. When inside, they tend to live in the basement or first floor. They are often found in sewers, garbage dumps, and also fields.
What do Rats eat?
They eat anything. They are opportunists when it comes to feeding.
How quickly do Rats reproduce?
A female Rat can produce up to 60 Rats a year.
What are the signs of a Rat problem/infestation?
- You may notice burrows or nests.
- You may hear the Rats scurrying across the floor, or scratching on the walls.
- You may see chew/gnaw marks. Rats must chew to keep their teeth chiseled down.
- Rats, like Mice, will leave grease or oil marks on walls, and other surfaces. Be on the lookout.
- Droppings. Also just like with Mice, you will notice Rat droppings. Rat droppings are much larger than Mouse droppings.
What are the differences in Rat droppings and Mouse droppings?
Rat droppings are much larger, and rounded at the edges. Mouse droppings are similar to a grain of rice and pointy on the ends.
If you think you might have a Rat problem, call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162. We will come over, assess, and recommend a treatment plan. Let Sheridan Pest Control take care of those disgusting Rats for you!
Skunks
How big are Skunks?
Skunks are 20-30 inches long, and weigh between 5-10 pounds.
How long do Skunks live?
Skunks can live anywhere from 1-4 years in the wild.
Where do Skunks like to live?
Skunks can live in a variety of places. They aren’t very picky. They could live in a brush pile, a hollowed out tree, an abandoned animal burrow, or even under your porch or shed. Sometimes they will make their own burrow, if no other home is available.
What do Skunks eat?
They will eat insects, small rodents, and plants.
When are Skunks most active?
Skunks are nocturnal and are usually active at night.
Do Skunks travel in packs?
No. Skunks are solitary creatures. They only hang with other Skunks when its mating season, or in the winter when they burrow together for warmth.
Why do Skunks tear up my lawn?
Skunks have very long nails, and dig up your lawn when looking for food in the form of insects.
Did a Skunk tear through my garbage?
Heck yes. They love them some garbage.
Why did I see a Skunk in the middle of the day?
Stay away from that Skunk. Call Animal control. That Skunk may be sick. It may have rabies. Or the Skunk got temporarily spooked by something.
Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 for help with that Skunk problem.
Squirrels
- This is the Squirrel New Yorkers see the most.
- Grey Squirrels are everywhere!
- They are incredibly athletic!
- They can jump long distances from limb to limb or tree to tree.
- They weight less than 2 pounds.
- They love large trees (like Oaks).
- They eat mostly nuts and seeds.
- Including tail, Grey Squirrels can be 20 inches long.
- They build their nests in the forks of trees.
- The Red Squirrel prefers Evergreen trees.
- The Red Squirrel is smaller than the Grey Squirrel (about half the size).
- The Red Squirrel eats nuts, seeds, bark, fruits, and even insects.
- They are little balls of energy and when in motion they rarely stop running, or climbing.
- They nest in a variety of places.
- New York has 2 types of flying Squirrel:
- The Northern Flying Squirrel is usually seen in northern New York.
- The Southern variety is often seen south of the Mohawk River Valley.
Flying Squirrels are mostly nocturnal.
- Flying Squirrels don’t actually fly. They jump and glide long distances.
- They are the smallest of New York Squirrels.
- Both types of Flying Squirrels are carnivorous. Southern Flyers also like seeds, nuts, berries, flowers, and leaves. The Northern Flyer likes fungi, and lichens.
- Flying Squirrels will be all over your bird feeders!
Why don’t I want Squirrels entering my house, or attic?
- They can wreak havoc.
- They will stress you out.
- They make a lot of noise.
- They make messes.
- They cause electrical fires.
- They build nests.
- They go to the bathroom everywhere.
- They will draw flies, and other insects with their droppings.
- They damage your home with their sharp teeth and chewing.
- They carry Ticks, Fleas, Mites, Rabies, and more.
Ways to prevent a Squirrel from entering your home:
- Exclusion.
- Cutting back any plant growth away from the house. Trees, shrubs, and other plants can act as a bridge/sidewalk if they are close enough to the house. You especially don’t want trees touching the roof.
- Utilize chimney caps.
- Make sure your roof is tight, has no major gaps, and no separations near vents, chimneys, flashing, etc.
What should you do if you have Squirrels somewhere in your home? Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162!
Termites
What do Termites look like?
Often pale, or light in color, they are around 1/2 inch long(sometimes bigger). Sometimes they have wings.
What do they eat?
Wood (Cellulose), and sometimes dead plants.
What does a Termite nest look like?
Nests are often made of mud, constructed within wood.
How do you know you have Termites?
Some telltale signs are sudden swarms of winged insects on your home, mud tunnels, frass, or damaged wood.
Is it important to take care of a Termite problem?
Yes, immediately. Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162, for a free assessment. Do not ever ignore a Termite issue.
How can I be proactive to prevent a potential Termite problem in my home?
- Keep moisture away from your house.
- Caulk/seal openings in your foundation.
- Keep all plants, trees, and shrubs off, and away from your house.
- Always check trees, telephone poles, stumps, and woodpiles around your house for infestations.
- Stack woodpiles away from the house, even if it means extra walking during the winter.
- Do not leave piles of wood, sticks, leaves, or any debris near your house.
How can you tell the difference between a Carpenter Ant and a Termite?
A Carpenter ant has a pinched waist. A Termite has a broad, tube-like body style, or thick waist. A winged Carpenter Ant has 4 wings, with the back wings being smaller. A winged Termite has 4 wings, all of the same size.
Its really sandy in the Capital region. Does that help Termites get in our homes, or hinder?
It helps them! Termites are a big problem in this area. The sandy soil offers very little resistance to their tunneling.
Is the damage caused from Termites really that big of a deal?
YES! Structural damage is nothing to mess around with. Termites will cause significant damage to your home if they are given the chance.
Ticks
In the Capital Region, where would Ticks be a problem?
Everywhere! Yes, they are worse in some areas, compared to others, and there are certain factors that add to the potential for a larger Tick population, but you can find Ticks anywhere, and Tick protection on all properties in a very good idea.
What do Ticks eat?
Blood! Yuck!
Tick tips:
- Keep your grass trimmed. They love hiding in tall grass.
- Stay away from the wooded/weedy areas of your property, and always keep those areas trimmed and cut back.
- Remove leaf waste, brush, and weeds regularly. Any contact with vegetation can result in Tick exposure.
- Keep your rodent populations down because small rodents are big time Tick carriers.
- Eliminate bird feeders, and bird baths, etc, to limit the rodent/wildlife traffic on your lawn.
- Reduce or eliminate piles of wood anywhere on your property. This is a good tip to reduce multiple pest populations, including Ticks.
- Do not set up dog, or children’s play areas anywhere near heavy brush, wooded areas, or tall weeds.
- Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 to discuss a Tick prevention plan for your property. Its ORGANIC!
- Educate yourself on Tick behavior. They don’t fly, they tend to climb upwards, and they like to hide in areas around our heads and necks. They like warm, moist, shady areas-on our bodies, and out in nature.
- Do frequent Tick checks on yourself, and on your family.
- Tuck your pants into your socks. Wear long sleeves. Consider using Deet (read the directions carefully).
- Wear lighter colored clothing so you can actually see ticks before they are able to bite you.
- Ground cover, like pachysandra, can be a haven for Ticks. Consider changing your landscaping.
When are Ticks active?
Anytime the temperature is above freezing.
What types of Ticks are most common in New York State?
The 3 types of Ticks that are most common in New York State are the Deer Tick, the Dog Tick, and the Lone Star Tick. Only the Deer Tick can cause lyme disease.
Do Ticks fly or jump on us?
No. They end up on us when they are able to have direct contact with our skin.
Can the Tick treatment actually be ORGANIC?
Yes! Protecting your property from Ticks through the spring, summer, and fall can be 100% ORGANIC! Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162 for an assessment, and a treatment plan.
Voles
Is a Vole a Mole?
No. But they are often confused with each other because of the similarity in their names. But remember-Voles are a close relative of a mouse, and they are generally above ground. A Mole is a subterranean creature. Voles eat plants. Moles do not.
Is a Vole a Mouse?
Close, but not exactly. They are often called a field Mouse, and they resemble Mice, but they have bigger backends, and are more stout all around. A Vole has a rounder head than a Mouse, and also a shorter tail.
Why does there seem to be so many Voles around my property?
Voles multiply quickly. A mating pair of Voles can have 5-10 litters a year, producing as many as 100 new Voles in that year. Vole populations can explode very quickly. They have short lifespans, but they make up for that with consistent, large populations.
Where does a Vole do most of its damage?
In your lawns, and gardens! They eat your plants, shrubs, and grass, right at the root. They do eat other things, like dead animals, fruit, and nuts, but the most noticeable damage they cause will be in the form of dead and dying plants, and shrubs. They burrow under plants, and go to town on those root systems. They also really love bulbs.
Where do Voles hide, or Nest?
They will build their nests in ground cover, under mulch, under snow, or under a pile of debris.
What is another sign of a Vole problem?
Sometimes Voles leave above ground runways in your grass that resemble what it would look like if someone had just run their 10 speed through a few times. They literally beat a path down through your grass.
How do you take care of a Vole problem?
Call Sheridan Pest Control 518-935-7162. We can take care of them for you!
Wasps
Are Yellowjackets and Hornets Wasps?
Yes.
What do Wasps eat?
Nectar.
When should you be concerned about Wasps?
When they nest close to, or inside your buildings and structures.
When are Wasps helpful?
When they pollinate our flowers and plants.
Are Wasps dangerous?
Yes, slightly. They can, and will sting in self defense. And it does hurt. They are very dangerous if you are allergic.
What are wasps attracted to?
They like fruits, sodas, most foods, and compost, etc. Be careful at picnics, around fruit trees, and do not swat at a Wasp. Obviously, you will often see Wasps around garbage cans, and dumpsters.
At what temperature do Wasps die?
Wasps will die in the fall once the temperatures hit the freezing mark. The cold(cause) will be one reason, and starvation(effect) will be another. The cold will cause them to stop foraging for food.
Do Wasps re-use their nests from year to year?
No. But Carpenter Bees will re-use theirs.*
Why do Wasps build nests within walls, under eaves, and in soffits?
For shelter.
What should I do about Wasps?
You should call Sheridan Pest Control 518-935-7162! We know the best ways to handle that nest. The sprays that homeowners often buy are not made for residual protection. They work in the moment, as a contact kill, but absolutely will not take care of the entire nest. You need a more detailed, and well though out plan of attack. And its not a great idea for homeowners to be on ladders, 2 stories high, chasing Wasps. Leave that to the Pros!
Woodchuck/Groundhog
Are Woodchucks the same as groundhogs?
Yes. They are the same rodent.
Are Woodchucks related to Squirrels?
Yes. Woodchucks are the chubbier, larger relative of Squirrels.
How big can a Woodchuck get?
Some Woodchucks can be up to 12 pounds. Although, most aren’t quite that big. They are usually around 8 pounds.
What color are Woodchucks?
Blonde or dark brown.
Where do Woodchucks prefer to live?
Woodchucks live underground. Sometimes in pretty elaborate tunnels and burrows. They like open areas, but also are prone to tunneling under structures like decks, sheds, trees, or foundations. They are sometimes referred to as an “edge species” because they like spots where the wooded area meets a field or lawn.
Do Woodchucks hibernate in the winter?
Yes.
What do Woodchucks eat?
They eat flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
When are Woodchucks most active?
In the early morning and around dusk.
Are Woodchucks climbers?
Barely. On occasion they will climb to the lower limbs of trees.
Why do Woodchucks stand on their back legs?
When they are assessing their surroundings they will stand on their hind legs.
When do Groundhogs reproduce?
In the early spring, right after hibernation.
What does damage from a Groundhog look like?
- They leave teeth marks on wood.
- They will leave mounds of dirt near their burrow entrances.
- They leave holes all over your lawn.
- They will chew through wires, and underground irrigation.
- They will eat your plants, fruits, and vegetables.
- They can dig enough, and displace enough ground dirt to alter the foundation of your sheds, decks, and patios.
What should you do when you have a Groundhog on your property? Call Sheridan Pest Control (518) 935-7162! We will come take care of that for you.