Is the Joro Spider in Tennessee?

Joro Spider with Johnson Pest Control in Sevierville TN

Imagine stepping into your backyard, when suddenly, you spot a giant spider with a large web stretched between your trees. This isn’t your typical garden variety spider; it’s huge, menacing, and unlike anything you’ve seen before. Your mind races – what could it be? It’s possible you’ve just encountered the Joro Spider, a species of orb-weaver spider that has recently made headlines as it’s been spotted in several states across the eastern United States – including, yes, here in East Tennessee. 

So what is a Joro spider and should you be concerned? In this blog, we’ll unravel the mystery of this intriguing newcomer.

What Does the Joro Spider Look Like?

The Joro Spider commands attention not just because it’s a huge spider with a massive web, but also by its vibrant coloring. If you see a large Joro, it’s most likely a female, as these spiders exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females look quite different from each other.

Here’s how to tell male and female Joro spiders apart:

Female:

  • Size: Large, with a body length of about 0.75-1 inch and a leg span of up to 4 inches.
  • Color: Bright yellow and blue body with distinctive red markings.
  • Web: Builds large, intricate webs that can span up to 10 feet.

Male:

  • Size: Much smaller than females.
  • Color: Darker, less vibrant, with more subdued colors.
  • Web: Does not build webs as females do.

Also, the webs of Joro Spiders are quite distinct in themselves. They are large, golden, and incredibly strong, capable of trapping a variety of insects.

Where is the Joro Spider Found?

The Joro Spider has been increasingly noted in various habitats, showcasing its adaptability. Originally thought to require a large natural area, Joro Spiders have revealed themselves to be surprisingly urban-tolerant. They’ve even been found more and more near highways, which is highly unusual for a web-hunting spider that relies on vibrations to capture prey.

Their ability to thrive in different environments, including urban areas, underscores their versatility and potential for wider spread.

Is the Joro Spider Dangerous?

Despite their daunting size and appearance, Joro spiders are generally not a threat to humans. While capable of biting, their fangs are small and they are overall timid creatures that prefer to retreat when confronted. The fear they might instigate is far greater than the actual risk they pose, making them more of a curiosity than a concern.

Where Did the Joro Spider Come From?

The Joro Spider is native to East Asia. It’s believed that they were accidentally transported to the U.S. via shipping containers. This theory explains their initial appearances near ports and their subsequent spread across the eastern United States.

What’s Next for the Joro Spider in East Tennessee?

For those not fond of spiders, the news might be unwelcome: the Joro Spider is probably here to stay. Their adaptability and successful breeding indicate that they’re likely to continue spreading across the eastern seaboard.

Got Questions About Spiders?

While the Joro Spider might initially inspire fear due to its size and unfamiliar appearance, it’s important to remember that they are largely harmless to humans. Their presence in East Tennessee and beyond is a testament to the ever-changing tapestry of our local ecosystems. 

However, if you have concerns or questions about the Joro Spider or any other pests, remember, we’re here to help. Call us anytime for advice, information, or assistance in dealing with any pest-related issues.

Cicadas 2024: A Natural Spectacle Unfolds in Tennessee

Cicada Swarms with Johnson Pest Control in Sevierville TN

This season, Johnson Pest Control eagerly awaits to guide you through an extraordinary natural event captivating not only Tennessee but also neighboring states. We stand on the brink of experiencing a unique spectacle in nature, where history intertwines with the present in the cicadas’ melodious chorus. As we delve into the enchantment and mysteries of these insects, we invite you to discover what makes this occasion more than just a spectacle but also a valuable lesson on our ecosystem and its periodic marvels. Join us as we reveal the wonders of cicadas, from their distinct life stages to their effects on our environment, and understand how to live in harmony with these remarkable beings.

How Rare Is This Natural Phenomenon?

The year 2024 witnesses a seldom-seen natural event in Tennessee and its neighboring states: the simultaneous emergence of two cicada broods, a phenomenon not observed for 221 years and not anticipated to recur until 2245. This extraordinary convergence of two large broods will span from mid-May to late June, offering a rare auditory and educational experience.

Cicada Basics

Cicadas spend the bulk of their existence beneath the soil, surfacing solely for reproduction and the end of their life cycle. Their life spans, usually extending 17 or 13 years, align in a unique convergence that envelops the summer atmosphere with their buzzing melodies.

Why Is This Important?

Although cicadas pose no threat to humans, their overwhelming presence can impact saplings and vegetation. Understanding their influence allows us to safeguard our foliage effectively without aggressive pest control interventions.

Dealing With Cicadas

Large-scale cicada management is unnecessary. Johnson Pest Control advises employing straightforward protective tactics for saplings, like mesh coverings, to avert harm throughout this natural phenomenon.

Be Aware of Potential Cicada Urine Propulsion

During cicada emergence periods, there’s a lesser-known but fascinating aspect to watch out for: the dynamic expulsion of cicada urine. These insects, though diminutive, have an impressive ability to eject liquids forcefully through small apertures. Unlike other insects that feed on xylem and release urine in a slow drip, cicadas can launch their liquid waste at velocities up to three meters per second, surpassing the capabilities of some larger creatures. This extraordinary expulsion mechanism is attributed to the immense amount of xylem cicadas ingest, making the more common method of droplet release inefficient for them. Thus, if you find yourself unexpectedly sprinkled on a clear day amidst cicada activity, it’s likely due to a cicada’s efficient liquid waste ejection from overhead foliage.

Looking Ahead

The imminent cicada surge transcends mere fascination; it stands as a testament to nature’s intricacy and rhythm. It presents an occasion to observe and learn from a phenomenon that spans centuries, providing insights into the natural realm we inhabit.

Join Johnson Pest Control in welcoming this incredible occurrence, recognizing the cicada emergence as a natural wonder, and anticipating the experiences that future generations will behold.

Crane Flies vs Mosquitoes: A Case of Mistaken Identity

Crane Fly in Tennessee

The onset of late spring leading into summer often invites various insects into our surroundings, some more welcome than others. One common case of mistaken identity occurs when crane flies are misidentified as mosquitoes. While these long-legged insects may resemble their bloodsucking doppelganger at first glance, distinguishing between can save you some worry, and even help your soil. 

What’s the Difference? 

At first glance, crane flies and mosquitoes might seem almost indistinguishable, especially when observed in the dim light of dusk or dawn. They have similar appearance and grow in similar environments, however there are a few key differences. 

Crane Flies 

Commonly referred to as “mosquito hawks” or “mosquito eaters”, crane flies are a species of fly that have no relation to mosquitoes despite their nicknames. Here’s how to spot them: 

  • Long legs with multiple joints 
  • Can grow up to 3 times larger than mosquitoes with some species spanning up to 1.2 inches long 
  • Long and narrow abdomen 
  • Wings set on side of body and do not fold when at rest 
  • No proboscis (long pointed mouth) to bite with 
  • Poor fliers 
  • Live in adulthood for 10-15 days 
  • Eat nectar 
  • Attracted to light, nectar, and moisture 

These gentle giants are generally slower and easier to catch than their smaller lookalike, and completely harmless. They cannot bite, and do not spread disease. Males spend their entire adulthood seeking out females for mating and eating nectar, while the females seek out nectar and high moisture areas ideal for their eggs. In their larvae state, crane flies are highly beneficial to soil because they eat decaying organic matter, and their presence has been noted to improve the lifecycle of plants and flowers.  

Mosquitoes 

These blood sucking pests are a nuisance more trouble than they’re worth. In their larvae state they can provide some benefit as a nutritious snack for fish and by adding nitrogen to the water they inhabit, but that’s where the benefits end. How to identify them: 

  • Short legs with multiple joints 
  • Never bigger than about half an inch 
  • Short and wide abdomen 
  • Wings set backwards and fold when at rest 
  • Long proboscis (pointed mouth) for biting 
  • Strong fliers 
  • Need organic material from blood for their eggs 
  • Spread deadly disease like malaria, dengue, and Zika 

Mosquitoes thrive in areas of high moisture with standing or stagnant water and pose a health threat to you and your family. They are tiny, and often go unnoticed unless in swarms or if they have already bitten you, leaving behind itchy welts in their wake.  

Your Partners in Pest Control 

At Johnson Pest Control, we understand not wanting to take a chance with your health. Tennessee’s first company to receive the National Pest Management Associations Quality Pro Company of Choice award, we have been dedicated to providing quality service to our community for over 30 years. With innovative solutions and leading technology, we know how to keep your home pest free year-round – even the non-dangerous ones. Don’t hesitate to request a professional evaluation, give us a call today for a free quote!

Your Dog’s Guide to a Tick-free Adventure in Tennessee

Dog running outside in TennesseeAre you fed up with the never-ending battle against ticks? Do you want to keep these blood-sucking parasites off your dog permanently? The experts at Johnson Pest Control have you covered. Read on to learn our top tick-fighting tricks to keep your furry friends safe all summer long. 

Why Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs Is Crucial

Ticks may be small, but their impact on your beloved pup’s well-being is huge. From the potentially severe Lyme disease to other tick-borne nightmares, these tiny insects can wreak havoc on your dog’s health. Taking a few steps to protect your pets could save them – and you – a lot of trouble and discomfort. 

Check Your Dog for Ticks Daily

Any time you go outdoors, take a few minutes to check your pup’s fur for ticks. Comb through their skin, investigating every nook and cranny, from ears to neck, belly to legs. If you stumble upon an unwelcome tick, it is eviction time. Grab your trusty tweezers or a nifty tick remover tool, and give those pesky intruders a one-way ticket out. 

Avoid Ticks When Possible

Do not let your dog wander into tick territory. Ticks lurk in tall grass, bushes, and leaf litter, ready to pounce on any passing host. Stick to well-groomed trails and paths. Keep your lawn neat. Mow it regularly and clear any debris to make your property less attractive to these tiny pests.

Bathe Your Dogs Regularly

Bath time can be a tick-busting blast. Grab a mild shampoo for dogs and lather up your pup. Rinse them well and look for any ticks. You can also add some apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the water, which act as natural tick repellents.  

Invest in a Tick-Proof Dog Vest 

Trendsetting pups, listen up! Suit up in style and outsmart those ticks. Meet the tick-fighting superhero costume: the dog vest. It covers your dog’s chest and back, blocking tick bites. Some vests have tick-slaying permethrin for extra protection. Your furry friend will be tick-free and fashionable.

Ask Your Veterinarian 

Your vet is the best resource for flea and tick prevention in dogs. Chat with them to find out how to keep those parasites away. They will suggest products and methods for your dog’s needs. The options include collars, sprays, drops, pills, and vaccines. But always check with your vet for the best flea and tick prevention for dogs in Tennessee.

Professional Tick Extermination and Prevention

When the tick situation feels overwhelming and it seems like these tiny pests have taken over your property, it is time to call the pros. Enter the tick-busting professionals Johnson Pest Control! Their expertise and cutting-edge techniques will give those ticks a one-way ticket out of your furry friend’s life. Not only do they provide exceptional service, but they are also renowned for their commitment to eco-friendly pest control solutions and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.

Do not let ticks ruin your day or harm your dog’s health. Take action now! Call Johnson Pest Control today and bid farewell to those pesky parasites. Your dog deserves a tick-free adventure in the beautiful state of Tennessee.

The Giant Atlas Moth is Here – Threats and Facts

A Giant Atlas Moth Rests on the leaves of a tree

The average house moth is about half an inch long from wing to wing. They’re mottled grey and brown, and a common pest in attics, closets and wardrobes. You’ve likely seen them before and thought nothing of it. But if you were to step outside in Washington and catch sight of a massive, deep-orange insect with a wingspan roughly the size of your hand, you will have been lucky enough to see moths like you’ve never seen them before. They’re called Atlas Moths, native to Southeast Asia, and they’ve recently been spotted in the United States for the first time in recorded history. But what can you expect from these so-called “gentle giants”, and what are the chances they’ll show up in Tennessee?

Atlas Moths: What You Need to Know

How does a moth like the Atlas cross thousands of miles across the globe to the Pacific Northwest? The answer to that is still uncertain, but there have been reports of a party in Bellevue, WA selling Atlas moth cocoons from Thailand for $60 a piece. Regardless of where they came from, they are federally quarantined pests, meaning it’s illegal to obtain, harbor, rear or sell them without a permit. Currently, it’s uncertain whether there is an actual infestation in Washington, and residents are advised to photograph any potential specimens and report them to the state department of agriculture. You can identify an Atlas moth by the following:

  • Size: Atlas moths are one of the biggest moth varieties in the world, with a wingspan of up to ten inches.
  • Coloring: Their wings are vibrantly hued in shades of brown, orange, white and black.
  • Wing tips: Possibly one of the most distinct qualities of the Atlas Moth are the tips of their wings, which evolved to resemble the heads of cobras, as protection against predators.
  • Movements: The Atlas Moth will stay in one place for hours at a time during the day. They are so focused on conserving energy that you can easily lift them up on your hand or finger during.

With all that in mind, if you see one of these legendary exotic insects you may still ask – are Atlas moths bad for Washington? And is there a risk of seeing an Atlas moth in Tennessee?

Possible Dangers of the Atlas Moth

If you see an adult Atlas moth, it wouldn’t cause much trouble other than the possible initial shock. They don’t sting or bite, they have no poison or any defense mechanism, other than the faux cobra heads on their wings. Adult Atlas moths are virtually harmless – so much so that they actually don’t even have the ability to eat. They survive for only a few weeks on the sustenance they obtained in their larval state. It’s in that exact period pre-pupation when Atlas moths are the most dangerous.

The caterpillars of the Atlas moth reach up to 12 centimeters long, and from the moment they hatch up until they spin their cocoon they are constantly eating. They do this to build up fat reserves, which gives them the best chance possible of surviving into adulthood long enough to find a mate. When raised in captivity, their diets are monitored to prevent damage to the rest of the enclosure. While the exact implications of the first Atlas moth specimen in the United States are still uncertain, it’s possible that their presence may harm the crops of fruit trees in Washington. And since the moth’s native land is Southern Asia, there’s a chance of these giant moths traveling to the warmer, more humid parts of the country that more closely resemble their natural habitat, like Tennessee.

What to do if You See an Atlas Moth

At Johnson Pest Control we’re capable of eradicating all the major pests seen in Tennessee. However, the Atlas moth is a protected species, so we don’t suggest making any attempts to harm it. The simple truth is that, if you see an Atlas moth, all you need to do is take a photo and report its location to your local state plant health director. After that you can just leave it be. It won’t hurt you or your household and will likely move on within a few days. However, there is something we can do if there are other moth types infesting your home or property. Johnson Pest Control employs a team of qualified exterminators that can work out of your residential, commercial or government property. All you have to do is contact us today to get started!

How to Avoid Being Stung By a Wasp

Wasps found in Eastern TNHaving bees, wasps, and hornets living around your yard or garden in Eastern TN can be enjoyable to observe from afar. However, get too close to a wasp nest and you could be in for a slew of sharp stings. Unlike most species of bees, wasps have the ability to pierce their target repeatedly, retaining their stinger in order to continue to defend their nests. These irritable insects can join forces to protect each other when they feel they’re in danger, so it’s important to learn all that you can about avoiding their stings. If this sounds helpful to you, read on for wasp sting prevention advice from the wasp control experts at Johnson Pest Control!

What to Do Avoid a Wasp Sting

The best way to protect yourself from wasp stings is to take efforts to prevent wasps before they arrive on your property. There are a few strategies you can take to keep wasps away without professional help:

  • Keep your yard tidy. Trimming your plants, grass, and trees will prevent overgrowth, which in turn affords fewer potential nesting sites to wasps.
  • Be careful with your food. Leaving out sugary or protein-packed foods will attract hungry wasps.
  • Toss your food properly. Dispose of your food and drink receptacles in sealable bins.

If wasps have already established a presence on your property, it’s too late to rely on prevention techniques. Instead, you’ll have to tread carefully around them to avoid stings. Here’s how:

  • Move slowly and carefully around their nests. Sudden movements can be mistaken for an attack.
  • If a wasp flies up to you for a better look, be still.
  • Don’t swat at a wasp if it hangs around for too long.
  • If you’ve been stung and you have to run away, do so in a straight line and keep your arms tucked in.

Need Wasp Nest Removal?

Ways to Deal with a Wasp Sting

Accidentally angering a wasp is all too easy. These insects are always on edge, so they can sting without any prior indication that they’ve been disturbed. Here’s how to treat your symptoms after a sting: 

  1. Use an ice pack or a rag soaked in cold water for a compress
  2. Take ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain medication to ease pain
  3. Take an antihistamine if the area around the bite is swollen

If you start to experience nausea, swelling of the mouth or face, faintness, or shortness of breath, call for an ambulance immediately. These are symptoms of a serious form of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Professional Wasp Removal in Eastern TN

Trying to get rid of wasp nests on your own is never a good idea. It is often the case that a wasp nest hosts many more individual members than it might appear to. To avoid an onslaught of stings, it’s best to ask your local wasp nest removal experts for help. Our technicians at Johnson Pest Control are equipped to handle nests no matter where they’re built using safe and environmentally responsible wasp removal tactics. Contact us today for a free quote or to learn more about our services!

Keeping Safe from Ticks & Lyme Disease

A deer tick seen in Eastern TN - Johnson Pest ControlFinding a tick while it’s lodging itself into your skin is a very unsettling experience. What’s even worse about ticks is that some of them have the ability to transmit serious diseases, such as Lyme disease. Hiding in the dense and shaded vegetation around Eastern TN, ticks lurk in silence waiting for small animals or unsuspecting people to walk by. It’s important to be able to consciously avoid ticks so you can protect yourself, your family, and your pets from the dangers of tick bites. Learn how from the tick exterminators at Johnson Pest Control.

How People Contract Lyme Disease

Sometimes referred to as blacklegged ticks, deer ticks are the most dangerous ticks in Eastern TN because of their ability to induce Lyme disease through their bites. This most often happens when deer tick nymphs carrying the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria bite someone. These nymphs are only about 2 mm in length, making them very difficult to spot. In addition, deer ticks inject saliva with anesthetic properties into the bite to prevent detection.

The first symptoms of Lyme disease are headaches, rashes, fever, exhaustion, and pain in the muscles and joints. If you leave it untreated, though, these symptoms will progress into arthritis and nerve damage. If you are experiencing early Lyme disease symptoms following a recent tick bite, reach out to a local medical professional right away.

Get a free quote on tick control services!

How to Avoid Ticks

Ticks aren’t only out to get humans. When living far away from our neighborhoods and paths, ticks’ primary targets are small animals wandering through the woods. This means that our dogs and children are even more vulnerable to ticks. Keep your family and pets safe from tick bites with our advice:

  • Wear long pants and socks outside to limit skin exposure
  • When hiking or walking outside, stick to the trail and keep your dogs from wandering off
  • Make sure to check everyone for ticks before coming back inside
  • If you do find a tick, don’t remove it with your hands. Use tweezers to pinch the tick close to the skin and pull it away gently

Professional Tick Control in Eastern TN

Finding ticks on your pets or your children shouldn’t be a regular occurrence. If you’re frequently coming in contact with ticks, you probably have a problem on your property that needs to be dealt with by a professional tick exterminator. The tick control team at Johnson Pest Control is equipped with the gear and knowledge to find vulnerable sites on your property and set up a barrier system to keep ticks away and prevent them from breeding. For a free estimate on tick removal, contact us today!

7 Houseplants to Keep Bugs Away

A venus flytrap in Eastern TN - Johnson Pest ControlWith all of the at-home and DIY pest control solutions that you can find on the internet, it can be hard to tell what actually works to keep pests away without professional intervention. If you’re looking for a reliable source, you’ve come to the right place! The technicians at Johnson Pest Control have been serving the Eastern TN area with inspections, preventative maintenance, and extermination services for nearly 40 years.

Over this time, we’ve developed an intimate understanding of the habits and features of local pests in the area. As such, we’ve learned how to repel them and can help you do so on your own. Read on to learn more about houseplants that you can keep around to prevent pest infestations!

7 Houseplants that Can Repel Pests

It’s important to preface this information by saying that simply placing houseplants in areas where you commonly experience pest infestations will not be the final answer to your problem. Some plants can, however, discourage certain pests from establishing breeding grounds or being active at sites that might otherwise be hotspots. Here are 7 plants that you can use to repel bugs:

  1. Citronella: You’ve probably seen citronella candles marketed as insect repellent products in stores. The plant itself has the potential to deter mosquitoes, flies, and other insects.
  2. Basil: This is another plant that works particularly well against flies and mosquitoes. It will also prove useful in your kitchen!
  3. Spearmint: This plant is easy to grow, smells fresh, and is proven to deter aphids, moths, fleas, ants, and more.
  4. Dill: Sticking to the trend of traditional garden herbs, dill is a helpful herb to repel aphids, spider mites, and other insects that commonly infest gardens.
  5. Catnip: Catnip can be difficult to grow indoors, but with the right amount of sunlight it can protect you from ants, beetles, cockroaches, and more common household pests.
  6. Venus flytrap: Although they are high maintenance plants, venus flytraps are fascinating organisms that will snatch up flies and other pests in your home if they get too close.
  7. Pitcher plants: Pitcher plants are other kinds of carnivorous plants, but are quite difficult to grow. These are a better option for an advanced gardener.

Reliable Pest Control Options for Your Home

Although the thought of using plants to safeguard your home from pests is a fun, non-toxic, environmentally friendly option to consider, it will not provide your property with optimal protection. If you’re looking to keep pests out of your home year-round in Eastern TN, ask your local pest control company for help. Our team at Johnson Pest Control is equipped to deal with all sorts of bugs and wildlife in the area with comprehensive strategies and advanced technology. Contact us today for a free quote!

 

Tips to Get Rid of Clothes Moths

Clothes moth on fabric in Sevierville TN home - Johnson Pest ControlOne of the most common household pests that many people don’t talk about is the clothes moth. These pests can cause homeowners quite a bit of distress, especially when they destroy garments and fabrics in your wardrobe. Because these pests seemingly come out of nowhere, it’s important to learn how you can prevent them—and keep your clothing intact! Thankfully, a few simple pest prevention techniques go a long way in preventing not just clothes moths, but other moths and insects and pests as well. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know with the experts at Johnson Pest Control!

What Are Clothes Moths?

It is rare to spot clothes moths due to the fact that they avoid light. Nonetheless, it’s important to learn how to identify them and the damage they cause. Clothes moths are only about ½-inch in length and are beige or light gray in color. The easiest way to identify these pests is, unfortunately, by noticing the damage done to your clothing. Unlike pantry moths (which feast on foods in your pantry), clothes moths crave natural fibers found in clothing, drapes, curtains, carpet, bedding, and more. When feasting on these fibers (silks, cotton, wools, etc.), they can create tiny holes that will quickly become noticeable.

Think You Have Clothes Moths?

How to Prevent Clothes Moths

Needless to say, the last thing you want to deal with is a closet full of damaged clothing from these tiny insects. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help prevent clothes moths:

  1. Keep a clean and tidy wardrobe. A crowded closet can be more susceptible to clothes moths as it’s harder to spot the damage. Regularly washing clothes—even ones that you may not be wearing at the moment—prevents moths that are more attracted to dirty, dusty fabrics. When introducing new items to your wardrobe, especially secondhand items, always inspect for moths.
  2. Try mothballs and traps. This traditional deterrent has been used for decades to deter moths in your closet. If the smell of typical mothballs displeases you, try making your own using fragrant essential oils like rosemary, clove, lavender, or citronella. While not always successful, sticky pheromone traps will confuse male moths and prevent them from breeding.
  3. Commit to good housekeeping practices. In general, keeping a clean environment inside your property is your number one defense against a pest infestation. Regularly cleaning or vacuuming your rooms and closets will eliminate the conditions that attract clothes moths and other pests in the first place.

Need Help Getting Rid of Clothes Moths?

If you’re unsure about the presence of clothes moths in your home or need assistance getting rid of them, the experts at Johnson Pest Control can help. We know how distressing pests in your home can be and work hard to eliminate the conditions that attract them in the first place.

Contact our experts today to get started!

How Quickly Can Mice Breed Indoors?

A house mouse in Sevierville TN - Johnson Pest ControlWinter is just about back here in Eastern TN. When the rain starts to fall and temperatures start to drop, all sorts of rodents are looking for hiding places and warm shelters to last them through the winter. Every winter, mice look to the structures of our homes to provide warm nesting sites where they can continue their breeding routines, given that the colder months come with conditions too harsh to sustain reproduction outside. Are you looking to learn more about mice reproductive habits and what you can do to stop them from breeding in your home? Read on for some information gathered by the technicians at Johnson Pest Control!

How Quickly Can Mice Breed Indoors?

Mice are able to reproduce at a much higher rate than many other animals living in Tennessee. To show just how quickly they can proliferate, we’ve gathered some alarming statistics for you to look over:

  • Female mice have a 25 day gestation period and are able to mate again directly after delivery.
  • Mouse mothers can produce up to 10 litters per year with up to 14 pups per litter at the most. These are the extremes, though—an average female mouse produces 40-50 pups a year.
  • Mouse pups can begin to reproduce just 4-6 weeks after being born.

As these numbers show, having just a few mice enter your home in the late fall can allow for an infestation of hundreds to be active by the early spring.

Need Help Getting Rid of Mice?

How to Keep Mice from Reproducing in your Home

In order to keep mouse populations from overflowing in your home, it’s important to find ways to prevent them from coming inside in the first place. This can be much harder than you might imagine—with the ability to squeeze through holes the size of a dime, mouse access points can hide in plain sight! We understand that it can be very difficult to properly mouse-proof a home without training, so we are offering advice to people looking to be preventative or who are already dealing with an infestation:

  • Preventing an infestation: Pest-proofing the outside of your home comes in many forms. First, you should look for any holes in your walls, foundation, roofing, plumbing fixtures, vents, or anywhere else that mice could sneak through. You can seal these with a silicone-based caulk or by placing steel wool in the gaps. Also be sure to keep your yard clear of waste, your plants trimmed away from your home, and your garbage cans sealed and distanced.
  • Getting rid of an infestation: You can spray diluted peppermint oil or apple cider vinegar around mouse hotspots to drive them away. Kitty litter and fabric softener sheets have worked for some, but we find these to be less effective and only viable as supplemental treatments. If your infestation is bad enough to necessitate using traps, talk to your local rodent exterminators about which trap options are suitable for your home and your family.

Top Mice Exterminators in Eastern TN

If your at-home mouse control measures aren’t getting the job done, reach out to your local pest control company. At Johnson Pest Control, we pride ourselves on our holistic approach to rodent control, complete with exhaustive inspections, preventative maintenance, and a long list of options to conduct the most effective mice removal services for your property. Contact us today for a free quote or to learn more about how we can help!