Armadillos, rattlesnakes, fire ants and scorpions are common sights in Texas, but there are new pests on the block who are trying to take over the state. The most recent offenders include crazy ants, Africanized bees and stink bugs. Of all invasive species in Texas, insects are the most damaging. Arthropods and insects are responsible for more than half of all invasive species management costs, which equal about $150 million per year.
Crazy Ants
As the name suggests, these wildly invasive ants are crazier than fire ants, which have plagued Texas for years. These populous ant colonies were first discovered in 2002, but no one knows their exact origin. Since their discovery, colonies have spread throughout the state. Sensitive electrical equipment and air conditioners are prime targets for these loony ants. Although their bite isn’t as fierce as a fire ant’s bite, they cause costly damage to electrical equipment. They’re even capable of killing lizards, newly hatched chicks and small animals. Homeowners can manage colonies by removing leaf litter and reducing irrigation.
Africanized Bees
These flying insects are prone to swarming and are a threat to people, cattle and native animals. Plus, they drive out honeybees that are needed to pollinate nut and fruit trees. Texas has been battling Africanized bees since they arrived from Mexico in 1990s, but they’ve managed to spread rampantly. Because Africanized bees are likely to sting in groups, make sure to seek the assistance of a pest control expert to remove their nest.
Stink Bugs
The brown marmorated stink bug, a native of Taiwan and Korea, has popped up as one of the newest pests entering Texas homes and threatening valuable agricultural crops. These stink bugs are different than most of their cousins. In the fall, they sneak inside homes to hibernate for the winter. Homeowners can protect their property by caulking and sealing openings, turning off outdoor lights and repairing or replacing window screens. Experts at the Texas AgriLife Extension urge anyone who’s seen a brown stink bug with the white dotted perimeter to give them a call. You can find the appropriate contact info here.
Invasive species have been inadvertently imported into the United States for centuries, and new offenders are arriving all the time. Early in 2013, Texas residents mistook a native snail for the parasite-ridden giant African land snail, but most sightings don’t have such a happy ending. If you’ve seen any of these invasive species mentioned or any unknown pest, call the specialists at ABC Home & Commercial Services of San Antonio. We’ll be happy to take a look and get rid of your pesky problem.