- AntsSmall though they might be, ants are incredibly complex creatures. With a complicated heirarchal society, methods of communication between individuals, clear division of labor within the community, and even surprisingly advanced problem-solving skills, ants have long been a subject of fascination for people the world over.
- SpidersAnd yet, many of us can't get over the creepy feeling we get when we see even a tiny spider go scurrying across the floor. And as beneficial as they may be, many species of spiders can and will bite people, sometimes with disastrous consequences. Perhaps Little Miss Muffet had the right idea all along -- perhaps the best way to deal with many spider species is to avoid them altogether, and keep them from entering your home.
- TermitesOur home is one of our biggest investments. We do things to take care of it, so we can call it "home" for a long time. Periodic checks for termites and wood destroying insects is a good idea to add to our maintenance list. Call Foster's for a free peace-of-mind inspection. We won't make up problems that don't exist, and we will make recommendations to protect your home.
- Bed BugsBed bugs are, by far, one of the fastest growing pest species in America today. As a result, there's an abundance of information out there regarding them -- some accurate, some not. On this page, we'll try and help you determine the fact from the fiction, and give you information on how to keep you and your family safe.
- Fleas
- CockroachesMany people have experienced the disgusting sight of dozens of little shapes scurrying for cover after a light was switched on at night. No other sight has quite the same power to strike fear into the hearts of homemakers everywhere. It almost seems unfair that such a vile species of insect as the cockroach is also one of the hardest to get rid of. Those insects with the vaguely racist names and the repulsive hygiene have caused many a headache for homeowners and pest control technicians alike.
- BeesHowever, these creatures can create major headaches. Stings, of course, can be quite painful -- and even dangerous, if the victim is stung more than once or is allergic. Some species, especially the hornets and yellowjackets, can be very aggressive. Honey bees will occasionally build their hives in the wall void or attics of houses, causing property damage.
- WaspsA classic symbol of summer, a buzzing bumblebee lazily ambling among the flowers brings to mind peace and warmth. Bees are major pollinators -- in fact, many plant species rely on honey bees extensively to aid in reproduction. The resulting honey is also a welcome addition to many plates. Even wasps and hornets can be beneficial, as many species will prey on insects that are considered pests.
- CricketsThe quintessential image of summer involves nights filled with cricket chirps. Some cultures around the world are so charmed by that chirp that they commonly keep crickets in cages as pets. In pop culture, a singing cricket helps a puppet find his conscience, another performs concerts in Times Square, and a strangely silent one helps a young Chinese girl become a warrior.
- MosquitoesWho hasn't had a picnic or cookout ruined by mosquitoes? Or perhaps you were out hiking, or watching a sports game, and got eaten alive. And who doesn't have a story to tell about that one camping trip, where even the bug repellant didn't seem to work.
- FliesThere is very little argument that flies are pests. Most flies carry disease -- the common housefly alone can transmit typhoid, cholera, dysentery, E. coli, and viral hepatitis (A & E), just to name a few. Fruit flies will infest homes and restaurants in large numbers, making it distasteful or even difficult to prepare or eat food in affected locations. And horse flies are known for their large size, loud buzzing, and painful bite.
- Hornets
- YellowjacketsExtreme caution is needed when removing a nest. Please do not attempt to eradicate a nest without professional help. "Bee traps", especially effective against yellow jackets, can be purchased at your local hardware store. Under no circumstances should you kill a wasp, yellowjacket, or hornet near the nest! Many species release a pheromone when killed that alerts the entire nest and causes them to attack.
- Stink BugsNo one likes stink bugs. But one of their strongest opposers is the resident who walks into their living room, only to find dozens (if not hundreds) of the oddly-shaped insects taking advantage of the morning light by swarming all over the windows. Or, perhaps, the farmer who suddenly finds their crops decimated by a swarm of the pesky bugs.
- Birds
- RodentsWe have a variety of options available for rodent control. Our first, and favorite, method is via the use of bait -- poisoned bait is placed in a tamper-resistant box that's safe to have around children and pets, and then placed around known areas of activity. The second method is by using snap traps, although the models we use are safe to have around little fingers and inquisitive pets. We also use glueboards -- paper boards with glue one one side, that the rodent will get stuck on. This method is less humane, but sometimes necessary.
- Mice75 to 200 million people in the 14th century. They are by far the mammals most used in laboratories, and have contributed to many medical breakthroughs. In short, mice and rats have played an enormous role in human history.
- Rats