ABC Blog
Choose a City

Venomous Spiders in Texas

. Posted by in • Austin
a black widow spider

The Lone Star State is known for its diverse wildlife. This variety extends beyond animals like wildcats and armadillos. It also means that homeowners need to watch out for venomous spiders in Texas. 

Many people aren’t big fans of spiders, but it’s important to keep in mind that few spiders commonly found in Texas pose any real risk. Most of them, like the southern house spider, would simply rather be left alone and aren’t much of a threat. 

However, black widow, pictured above, and brown recluse spiders are concerning species to have on your property. Learn how to identify these venomous spiders in Texas, how to prevent them and what you should do if you encounter them.

What Texas Homeowners Need to Know

A Texas homeowner should know that managing spider populations starts with knowledge and prevention. The good news is that out of the roughly 900 species in Texas, only two of them … Read Full Post »

What Do Mouse Droppings Look Like?

. Posted by in , • San Antonio
Mouse droppings in a bathroom cabinet

Do you know what mouse droppings look like? Being able to identify them is an important part of spotting a mouse infestation. 

Keep in mind that DIY methods can help keep mice away, but they won’t control an existing infestation. For that, it’s best to work with a pest control company who has the experience and knowledge to control these pests.

What Do Mouse Droppings Look Like?

Did you know that one of the signs of a mouse infestation is spotting their droppings around your home? Mice are nocturnal creatures and are skilled at steering clear of danger, so it’s more common to see the signs they leave behind than the actual rodents.

That being said, it’s helpful for homeowners to understand what mouse droppings look like, where you might find them and what they can tell you about a potential mouse infestation.

The easiest way to describe a mouse dropping is that it’s black … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Do Mice Hibernate? Keeping Rodents Out Of Your Home

. Posted by in , • Corpus Christi
a mouse outside

As a homeowner, there are many things to consider before winter arrives. You want to make your space as comfortable as possible for the upcoming cold weather. The trouble is, without taking the proper steps, mice and other pests may end up seeing your home as a sanctuary of their own.

If you’re like many homeowners in Texas, you may have wondered: Do mice hibernate, or do they stay active throughout winter? The short answer is no. Mice don’t hibernate, which means they don’t have the capacity to withstand the cold the same way other mammals do. This matters to homeowners because it means these pests may be searching for a place to stay warm, which could be your home. 

The cold triggers their survival instincts, often leading them to find a path indoors. You may notice increased mouse activity when the weather gets cooler. This doesn’t mean you necessarily have more … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Deer Mouse Vs. House Mouse: Which Is The Bigger Pest?

. Posted by in , • Austin

Have you noticed signs of mice in your home? If so, you may want to know what type of mice is taking up residence in your home.

If you suspect that a mouse infestation is taking over your home, contact a pest control service.

Deer Mouse Versus House Mouse: Which Is the Bigger Pest?

Deer mice and house mice, pictured above, are two common rodents that homeowners encounter inside their houses. Deer mice transmit hantavirus, making them more of a problem than house mice. However, you’re more likely to find house mice in or around your home. It’s helpful for homeowners to understand the difference between deer mice and house mice so they can correctly identify a mouse infestation and take the proper steps to control it.

These two types of mice differ in three main ways:

  • Appearance
  • Behavior
  • Nesting and habitat

Let’s examine these in more detail.

Deer Mouse … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Rats vs. Mice: Which Pest Is Invading Your Home?

. Posted by in , • Austin
rats vs mice

A rodent infestation is often a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Since rodents are sneaky creatures that stay out of sight, it can be difficult to identify exactly what kind of infestation you’re dealing with. 

If you’re dealing with a rodent situation, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a professional pest control service. The expert can control the population and put prevention methods in place to help deter rats and mice from returning.

Rats Versus Mice: Which Pest Is Invading Your Home?

Do you have rodents in your home but can’t identify what kind? Rats and mice, pictured above, leave behind several of the same signs that they’ve taken up residence in your home, and it can become a guessing game until you actually see a rat or mouse.

However, both mice and rats are nocturnal creatures and are excellent at staying out of sight. It’s helpful for homeowners to learn how to distinguish between … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Using Technology in Modern Pest Control

. Posted by in • Houston

Modern Pest Control

Using Technology in Modern Pest Control

In an era where technology is revolutionizing every industry, modern pest control is no exception. Traditional methods of pest control, while effective, are increasingly being complemented—or even replaced—by innovative technologies. At ABC Home and Commercial Services, we understand that staying ahead in pest control means integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance efficacy, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how modern pest control services are transforming pest control, the benefits it offers, and what it means for homeowners and businesses alike. As the best pest control company, we are committed to providing top-notch modern pest services that ensure your property remains pest-free while prioritizing sustainability and effectiveness.

What to Expect from a Modern Pest Control Company

1. The Evolution of Modern Pest Control

Pest control has evolved significantly over the years. From ancient methods using natural repellents to the development of … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Mosquito Control Tips for Summer

. Posted by in , • Dallas-Fort Worth, Tyler
Mosquito sucking blood with vibrant background

Summer mosquito season isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a genuine concern for your family’s health, comfort, and ability to enjoy the outdoors. While professional mosquito control services provide a powerful layer of protection, there are some easy mosquito prevention steps you can take.

At ABC Home & Commercial Services, we help homeowners take control of mosquitoes with professional treatments and practical advice that works. Here’s what you need to know, including some surprising facts and common misconceptions. 

Why Am I Seeing So Many Mosquitoes? 

Ever wonder Why There Are So Many Mosquitoes in Dallas? Well, the short answer is that North Texas has the perfect storm of mosquito-friendly conditions: warm weather, high humidity, and frequent rain. These create ideal breeding grounds for common species like Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. 

Some quick facts: 

  • Mosquito season typically runs April through October. 
  • Mosquitoes need … Read Full Post »
Comments Closed

How Long Can Mosquitoes Live Without Food?

. Posted by in , • Corpus Christi
a mosquito on a person's hand

Mosquitoes are annoying pests that can make it hard to enjoy the outdoors. Some people think they can try to starve mosquitoes before spending time outside. This might sound like a good idea, but it doesn’t work when it comes to controlling mosquitoes.

How Long Can Mosquitoes Live Without Food?

Many homeowners wonder if they can get rid of mosquitoes by starving them out, especially in Texas during mosquito season. However, trying to starve out mosquitoes is not an effective pest control plan.

For one, there isn’t a clear-cut answer for how long mosquitoes can survive without food. Since male and female mosquitoes mainly survive on sugary foods like nectar from plants, fruit juices and other natural sugars, it would be nearly impossible to make sure the mosquitoes on your property aren’t getting food.

Many people don’t realize that only female mosquitoes bite people or animals. Female mosquitoes bite people because they need blood to … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

Can Bed Bugs Live In Cold Temperatures?

. Posted by in , • San Antonio
a bed bug

Bed bugs are frustrating pests that can disrupt your sleep and quality of life. Unfortunately, they’re also resilient pests that can survive in harsh conditions.

Can Bed Bugs Live In Cold Temperatures?

It’s common knowledge that bed bugs can’t survive in extreme heat, but what happens to these pests in cold weather? Can bed bugs live in cold temperatures?

Bed bugs are resilient pests that can live in cold temperatures to a certain point. They can survive in cold weather as low as 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Adult bed bugs are particularly resilient and can survive in many conditions.

Bed bugs prefer to live indoors where they have shelter and access to a host for their blood meals, so the cold weather is not a massive threat to their survival. They are especially safe in heated homes when the weather is cold. Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs do not hibernate but enter a state … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed

How to Add a Water Feature Without Attracting Mosquitoes

. Posted by in , • Austin
a thumbnail from the video featured in this blog

Ponds, fountains and other water features can transform your backyard into a tranquil oasis. If you live near a highway or in a noisy area, water features can drown out ambient noise and replace it with a soothing, natural sound. 

Adding a water feature can also enhance existing landscaping, often with little required maintenance. Lastly, providing a water feature in your yard can help you attract butterflies and hummingbirds. However, there is one creature you don’t want to attract when you add water to your landscape: mosquitoes. It’s important to control mosquitoes in your water features to maintain a pleasant backyard environment.

How To Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Water Features

When designing a water feature, it’s essential to consider the potential for mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so incorporating features that prevent stagnant water from accumulating is crucial. Opt for a water feature with a depth of at … Read Full Post »

Comments Closed