Canyon Lake Animals That Help With Pest Control

There is plenty of wildlife around Canyon Lake, TX and some of them are beneficial and help keep some of your pests away!  I know some of you freak out when you encounter them, but everything in nature has its place and I’m always looking for interesting ways to control pests.  So here are some common animals around Canyon Lake and New Braunfels that will help keep your bugs to a minimum.

• Bats: Bats will eat mosquitoes and moths by the thousands! Bats have been known to eat up to 1,000 insects an hour during peak feeding times.  Adding bat houses to your property will give them a reason to stick around and eat lots of your flying insects.  Bats typically do not interact with humans and will not cause any damage to property.
• Caterpillars:  Caterpillars like the woolly bear will feed on aphids in orchards and other pests while they feed on the foliage.
• Chickens: Chickens hunt and peck and scratch looking for insects to consume.  They will feed on ticks, scorpions, and numerous other bugs they find.  They are probably one of the most effective means of natural pest control around.  Just keep them safe at night!
• Frogs: Frogs and toads will feed on slugs and snails, which destroy crops and garden plants.  They will also help control mosquitoes by eating them.  We have a pond in our back yard we keep full so the frogs will have a place to survive the summer.  It’s relaxing to hear them singing in the summer months too!
• Owls: Owls are excellent at keeping rodent populations in check.  Rats, mice, and voles are some of the rodents they will hunt and eliminate.  Owl boxes can encourage them to stay around the property providing long-term rodent control.
• Hawks:  Hawks are excellent hunters and will hunt smaller mammals like rats, mice, rabbits, and some larger insects.  They have very keen eyesight and it is entertaining to watch them work!
• Ants:  Some species of ants are predators of termites, aphids, and some other garden invaders. Fire ants, known for being aggressive, will help control tick populations.
• Geckos and Lizards: These little guys and girls consume a large variety of insects like mosquitoes, termites, and ants.  They are good to have around the home and gardens, and do not cause any damage to crops or plants.
• Nematodes:  These microscopic worms are used in farming for a natural or biological means of pest control.  They will consume grubs, root-weevils and larva.  They are effective by entering the pest’s bodies and releasing bacteria that kills them.
• Skunks: Skunks are not to be feared!  Skunks will dig through the soil and leaf litter and feed on beetles, crickets, grubs, and even yellow jackets.  One unique characteristic of skunks is they will feed on small mammals like mice, rats, and squirrels when food sources are scarce!  They are also very adept at finding larva and consuming it.  They are beneficial in controlling ticks, mosquitoes and the eggs of ground hornets like yellow jackets.
• Possums:  Possums are really docile and just try to scare you away with their teeth!  They are super clean animals and don’t carry anything except possibly fleas.  They love to eat cockroaches, beetles, ticks, grubs, slugs, snails, and caterpillars.  Like skunks, they will also consume small rodents like mice, rats, and rabbits.  Possums will also feed on dead animals, keeping flea, maggot, and fly populations down.  Possums are non-aggressive and will not damage property, plants, or gardens. They are gentle little workers!

Living in a country environment like we do at Canyon Lake, all these animals are optimal to have around, and help keep the ecosystem balanced and thriving.  I hope this will encourage you to learn more about them and create a habitat where they can thrive and help your landscape and home be better protected against pests!

Fire ants are an extremely common pest in Texas, posing a significant challenge to homeowners, farmers, landscapers, and even recreational areas like sports fields. Known for their painful sting, aggressive behavior, and ability to quickly form large colonies, fire ants are a major nuisance in both urban and rural environments. The state of Texas, with its warm climate, is an ideal habitat for these insects, and their populations can grow rapidly without effective control measures.

In this article, we will explore the best practices for controlling fire ants in Texas, focusing on prevention, treatment methods, and long-term management strategies.

What Are Fire Ants?

Fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) are small, reddish-brown insects known for their aggressive behavior and painful stings. Unlike many other ant species, fire ants can attack in swarms, and their stings can cause significant pain, allergic reactions, and in rare cases, even more serious health issues. The ants build large, dome-shaped mounds in the ground, often in lawns, pastures, gardens, and even urban areas. These mounds are the entrances to complex underground tunnels that house entire colonies.

Each colony typically consists of a queen, worker ants, and sometimes male ants. The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while worker ants forage for food and protect the colony. Fire ants are opportunistic feeders, eating almost anything, including seeds, small animals, and human food scraps.  They will travel inside and feed on human food.

Why Are Fire Ants a Problem in Texas?

Fire ants are particularly problematic in Texas due to the state’s climate and terrain. The warm, humid conditions provide an ideal environment for the ants to thrive. Furthermore, fire ants are aggressive and can cause damage to crops, lawns, and gardens. They can also interfere with outdoor activities, as their stings are not only painful but can lead to allergic reactions or, in rare instances, anaphylactic shock.

The fire ant’s ability to quickly establish large colonies also complicates control efforts. A single colony can house thousands of ants, and new colonies can form through “budding,” where part of the colony breaks off to establish a new mound nearby. Additionally, fire ants do not only pose a threat to humans and pets but can also harm wildlife by displacing native ant species and preying on the eggs of ground-nesting birds and other animals.

How to Identify Fire Ants

One of the first steps in controlling fire ants is identifying them correctly. Fire ants are distinguishable by:

• Color: They are reddish-brown, with some individuals appearing darker and others lighter.
• Size: Worker ants typically range from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch in length.
• Sting: When threatened, fire ants sting multiple times, injecting venom into their victims, which causes pain and irritation.  They have even been known to hold on to a leg hair and sting multiple times.
• Mounds: The presence of small, dome-shaped mounds in the soil is a common sign of fire ant activity. These mounds can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter.

Unlike other ant species, fire ants do not create distinct tunnels visible on the surface. Instead, they build their colonies underground, and the mound serves as the opening to these tunnels.

Control Methods for Fire Ants

When fire ants have established a colony in your yard, controlling them requires a combination of different strategies. There are several approaches to fire ant control, ranging from chemical treatments to natural remedies. It’s important to note that fire ant control is an ongoing process, as these ants can be persistent and difficult to eliminate entirely.

1. Baits and Granular Insecticides

One of the most common methods for fire ant control is the use of bait or granular insecticides. These products are typically applied to the ground and attract ants, who carry the bait back to their colony. The bait contains a slow-acting poison, which kills the ants over time.

• Fire Ant Baits: These are typically available in granules or dust form. The ants are attracted to the bait, which they take back to the colony, where it kills the queen and other ants. The process can take a few weeks, but it is generally effective in reducing fire ant populations.
• Amdro with hydramethylnon is an effective bait.  But I normally see people apply it incorrectly and not broad enough to completely eliminate colonies. It should be spread around the edges of mounds without disturbing them.
• Extinguish Fire Ant Bait (Hydramethylnon & S-Methoprene)  is a good option with proven results.  At 1.5 lbs per acre use rate, it can be applied to large areas cheaply.
• Advion Fire Ant Bait (Indoxacarb)  is a bait similar to Extinguish that is spread around fire ant mounds and can be broadcast across the entire yard at a low rate.
• Granular Insecticides: Granular insecticides can be spread across your yard to kill fire ants directly. These products usually contain fast-acting chemicals that kill ants on contact. However, they may not be as effective at eliminating the entire colony as baits, which target the queen.
• Over’N Out Granules (Bifenthrin & Zeta-Cypermethrin) is a granular product to be spread across yards to control fire ants.  These products and others containing Bifenthrin are spread using a grass spreader or push spreader and then watered-in to activate them.  They are effective but require multiple bags for bigger properties.  Bifenthrin tends to hold up for 90 days and has the added benefit of controlling other yard bugs like cockroaches, pillbugs, fleas, ticks etc.

2. Liquid Insecticides

Liquid insecticides are another option for treating fire ants. These products are often applied directly to the mound, and they work by killing ants upon contact. Some liquid insecticides are more effective than others at killing ants in the soil, but they typically only target ants present at the time of application and may not fully eradicate the colony.  Fipronil or Imidicloprid products are usually more effective against ants, but a liquid topical treatment will not reach the entire colony without a full yard treatment.  A liquid yard treatment by a professional can provide a quick knockdown for a party or gathering.  Most baits and liquid treatments cannot be applied at the same time though, so keep that in mind.

3. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural substance made from the fossilized remains of tiny organisms called diatoms. When sprinkled around a fire ant mound, DE acts as an abrasive, causing the ants to dry out and die. It is a non-toxic solution that can be a safe option around pets and children. However, you would be better off sprinking it around the base of the foundation to keep them from entering the house versus using it to try to eliminate the colony.

4. Boiling Water

Pouring boiling water directly onto a fire ant mound is another way to kill ants. The hot water destroys the mound and kills many of the ants. However, this method is only effective for small mounds and does not guarantee that the queen or the entire colony will be destroyed. Additionally, it can be dangerous if not done carefully. More than likely the disturbed colony will just move deeper into the ground and move over to another part of the yard.

5. Natural Remedies

Several natural remedies can help control fire ants, though they tend to be less effective than chemical treatments. These include:

• Citrus Oil: Some people use citrus oil or orange oil as a repellent for fire ants. It can disrupt their ability to communicate and may cause them to abandon the mound.  I haven’t ever encountered anyone who had much success this way.
• Vinegar: A mixture of vinegar and water can be sprayed on fire ants, killing them on contact. However, this may not address the root of the infestation, as it does not target the queen.

6. Professional Pest Control

In severe cases or for large properties, professional pest control services may be necessary. Pest control companies can apply targeted treatments that are highly effective in controlling fire ants. They may use a combination of baits, insecticides, and specialized equipment to tackle large infestations.  I use highly effective granular products that require a license to purchase or apply. I also have almost every product and bait with me at all times, therefore taking the guesswork out of the results.

Long-Term Management of Fire Ants

Managing fire ants is an ongoing process, and there is no one-time solution that will fully eliminate them. However, through regular monitoring and implementing a combination of preventive measures and control techniques, you can keep fire ants under control over the long term.  Be prepared to treat multiple times for the first couple of years, and after that they will be easier to control.

• Monitor Your Yard: Continue to inspect your yard regularly, especially in the warmer months. If you notice new mounds, act quickly to prevent further infestation.  The best time to treat is early Spring before colonies are large and expanding.
• Use a Combination of Treatments: For the best results, consider using a combination of baits, granular insecticides, and other treatments. Regular reapplication of treatments can help keep fire ant populations under control.
• Maintain a Healthy Lawn: A well-maintained lawn with proper drainage and irrigation will be less attractive to fire ants. Healthy soil and grass can also make it harder for ants to establish colonies.

Conclusion

Fire ants are a persistent and challenging pest in New Braunfels and the hill country, but with the right strategies, you can effectively control their populations and prevent them from becoming a significant nuisance. By understanding fire ant behavior, identifying the problem early, and using a combination of prevention and control methods, you can keep fire ants under control and enjoy your outdoor spaces with minimal risk of stings. Whether you choose natural remedies, chemical treatments, or professional services, it’s important to approach fire ant control with a comprehensive, long-term plan.

Insects, bugs, critters, creepy-crawlies, arthropods, or whatever you may call them are plentiful in our beautiful Earth and may cause problems and health risks around your home.  If you are looking for an eco-friendly or environmentally-friendly means of pest control, read on for some suggestions and remedies.

Structural pests like cockroaches, beetles, ants, scorpions, centipedes, spiders can pose health risks or even cause damage to homes.  Some species like termites cannot be eliminated without a traditional treatment, but there are options for rodents and insects that can be effective in controlling those pests.

Step 1: Prevention

• Making your property less attractive to pests is the first step in prevention.  Sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation, around windows, around siding and soffits will help tremendously in keeping critters out.  Make sure weatherstripping seals doors properly and use foam or caulk for gaps around the foundation.  Mice will also make tunnels to enter the house from under the slab, so adding a gravel base around the perimeter of the home will make that more difficult for them to tunnel.  Their tunnels will fill with the gravel when they dig, thereby eliminating an infestation.
• Proper drainage is important in controlling cockroaches, earwigs, termites, millipedes and other bugs.  Make sure downspouts flow away from the house 5-10 feet and do not just dump on the ground causing a pool of water.  Make sure gutters remain clear and not filled with leaves and debris.  Clogged gutters create a habitat for roaches to thrive.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.  Carpenter ants, scorpions, wood roaches, powder post beetles and other destructive insects will nest in that firewood and can enter the home if it is too close.  Termites will possibly be in the wood and you’re inviting them to invade your home if the wood is close to your framing.
• Dispose of waste properly in proper containers with tight-fitting lids.  Keep compost piles away from the home.  Clean waste receptacles routinely to prevent breeding grounds for roaches.  Keep bird feed, deer feed, corn feeds etc. in sealed containers.
• Control moisture inside the home by inspecting and repairing leaky faucets, clogged garbage disposals, pipes leaking in crawl spaces etc.  Dehumidifiers will help control moisture in crawl spaces.

Step 2: Natural Remedies & Non-Toxic Methods

• One of the most popular natural means of pest control is Diatomaceous Earth (DE).  DE is a natural non-toxic powder made from tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms.  It acts like silica and causes small abrasions in insects that cause them to dehydrate.  It is safe to be used around children and pets as long as it is placed in an area where it will not be disturbed.  It should be applied along baseboards, in cracks and near entry points.  Re-apply if it is disturbed by wind or rain.
• Essential oils are a safe and effective way to repel pests and control infestations. Many essential oils have natural insecticidal properties, making them ideal for eco-friendly pest control. Some of the most common essential oils used for pest control include:
• Peppermint Oil: Effective against ants, spiders, and rodents, peppermint oil has a strong scent that pests find overwhelming. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to entry points or areas where pests are active.
• Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is also effective in repelling ants, cockroaches, and termites. A mixture of tea tree oil and water can be sprayed in infested areas to drive pests away.
• Lavender Oil: Lavender is a natural repellent for moths, fleas, and mosquitoes. The pleasant scent can also help to mask the odors that attract these pests.
• Citrus Oil: Pests like ants and cockroaches dislike the strong citrus scent. A simple spray of water and citrus essential oil can help repel pests.
• Product manufacturers like Essentria and EcoVia make already prepared botanical products that work well.  I use EcoVia EC for wasp nests and for flea treatments because it is potent and fast-acting.
• Boric acid is non-toxic and safe when applied properly.  Lots of ant baits and gels contain boric acid and one of my termite pretreatment options contains orthoboric acid.  It disrupts an insect’s digestive system when they digest it, causing dehydration and death.  It should be applied as a crack and crevice treatment where pests are invading or as a bait like mentioned above. 
• Pro-pell is an essential oil-based product for repelling rodents from around the foundation of the house that has good results in the professional pest control world.

Physical & Mechanical Methods

In addition to natural remedies, there are also physical and mechanical methods of pest control that can help protect buildings from infestations. These methods are non-toxic, require little maintenance, and can be highly effective when combined with other eco-friendly techniques.

Traps are a great eco-friendly option for controlling certain pests like rodents and insects. There are several types of traps available, including:

• Snap Traps: For rodents, snap traps are an effective and humane way to eliminate them. Place traps along walls or near entry points where rodents are likely to travel.
• Glue Traps: These traps are coated with a sticky substance that captures pests such as cockroaches, scorpions, ants, and rodents. While effective, they may not be as humane as snap traps, and they can sometimes trap non-target animals like pets.
• Pheromone Traps: Used primarily for insects like ants and cockroaches, pheromone traps attract pests using a synthetic version of their own sex pheromones. Once the pest enters the trap, it becomes stuck.  Highly effective for roaches or pantry moths.

Exclusion methods are a great way to prevent pests from entering a building in the first place. Physical barriers like mesh screens can be used to block insects from entering through vents, windows, and air ducts. You can also place mesh wire around foundations and vents to keep rodents and insects from gaining access.  Garage doors should always be inspected for gaps and cracks that allow rodents to enter.  I sealed one up this week that had 2 inch gaps around the base so rodents could enter freely.

By adopting eco-friendly pest control techniques, you not only protect your home or building but also contribute to the preservation of the environment for future generations.

In recent years, the pest control industry has witnessed a paradigm shift toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. One of the most promising developments in this direction is the concept of reduced impact service (RIS). This approach emphasizes minimizing the negative effects of pest control practices on the environment, non-target organisms, and human health, while still effectively managing pest populations. Reduced impact service is gaining traction as homeowners and businesses become more conscious of the ecological footprint of traditional pest control methods.

In this article, we will explore the core principles of reduced impact service in pest control, the techniques involved, and the benefits it offers to both the environment and customers.

What is Reduced Impact Service (RIS)?

Reduced Impact Service (RIS) in pest control refers to the use of techniques and practices that limit the harmful environmental, social, and health impacts associated with traditional pest management methods. This holistic approach combines integrated pest management (IPM), green or eco-friendly products, and preventive measures designed to minimize chemical use and target pest problems with precision.

At its heart, RIS is about being more thoughtful and less invasive in pest control. It seeks to provide long-term solutions that control pests while protecting ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and safeguarding human health.

The Core Principles of Reduced Impact Service

The principles of reduced impact service revolve around three key elements: prevention, precision, and responsible product use. Let’s look at each of these in more detail.

1. Prevention

One of the best ways to reduce the impact of pest control is to prevent infestations before they even occur. RIS often focuses heavily on exclusion techniques, sanitation, and habitat modification to reduce the likelihood of pests gaining access to homes or buildings. This may include:

• Sealing entry points: Inspecting and closing gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, windows, and doors to prevent pests from entering.  Tight fitting screens and weather stripping will go a long ways towards keeping pests out.
• Regular cleaning: Keeping areas free from food debris, waste, and standing water, which can attract pests like ants, cockroaches, or rodents.
• Landscaping adjustments: Properly maintaining yards to avoid conditions that harbor pests, such as overgrown vegetation, stagnant water, or clutter.  Trimming trees, grass, bushes, etc. will help to keep bugs and other critters from accessing the home.

By addressing the root causes of pest infestations, RIS reduces the need for reactive treatments, which are typically more invasive and may require multiple treatments or trips.

2. Precision

Precision refers to targeting pest problems at the source and applying treatments with accuracy. In a reduced impact service, pest control professionals aim to use the least amount of chemicals possible, applying them only where necessary and in the most effective manner. This can be achieved through:

• Spot treatments: Instead of blanket spraying, which can disperse chemicals into the environment, pest control specialists focus on treating specific problem areas, such as cracks, crevices, and nests.  Care is taken to apply liquids only to the foundation and eaves which are problem areas.  Yard treatments are no longer needed unless it is for chiggers, or a lawn insect causing damage.  Everything else can be controlled with a more basic and less invasive treatment.
• Traps and monitoring devices: Non-toxic, mechanical traps are used to capture pests or monitor populations. This helps professionals assess the extent of the infestation before applying any treatment.  Glue boards do a great job at identifying problem areas, what insects are getting inside and the effectiveness of treatments on things like roaches.
• Baiting systems: These provide targeted doses of pest control substances to specific pests, reducing unnecessary exposure to the environment.  There are baits for almost every pest now and can be applied without affecting the rest of the ecosystem negatively.

This level of precision not only improves the efficacy of pest control efforts but also ensures that the use of chemicals and pesticides is minimized, which is a key goal of RIS.

3. Responsible Product Use

When chemical products are necessary, reduced impact services prioritize the use of eco-friendly and low-toxicity solutions. There has been a significant rise in demand for products that are certified green, such as:

• Biological agents: These include beneficial nematodes, parasitoid wasps, and other natural predators that control pest populations without the need for chemicals.
• Botanical pesticides: Derived from plants, these products are often less toxic to humans and wildlife than synthetic chemicals.
• Insect growth regulators (IGRs): These disrupt the life cycle of insects, preventing them from maturing or reproducing without posing a threat to other species.
• Low-toxicity synthetic chemicals: When necessary, pest control companies may use reduced-risk chemicals that have been shown to have less environmental impact and lower toxicity to humans and animals.

These products are carefully selected for their effectiveness and their reduced risk to the environment. By using eco-friendly and sustainable options, RIS helps minimize harmful runoff, reduces the contamination of water sources, and protects beneficial organisms like bees and other pollinators.

The Benefits of Reduced Impact Service

The shift to reduced impact service provides numerous benefits, both to the immediate environment and to the long-term health of ecosystems.

1. Environmental Protection

One of the most compelling reasons for adopting RIS is its positive impact on the environment. Traditional pest control methods often rely on chemical sprays that can end up in local water supplies, harming fish and other aquatic life. RIS minimizes the environmental footprint by using non-toxic treatments, biological agents, and precision application methods that reduce the potential for chemical runoff. Sprays are not used when winds are higher than 10 mph to control drift.

Moreover, RIS practices help preserve biodiversity by minimizing the accidental poisoning of non-target species. For example, integrated pest management and biological controls often target specific pests without harming beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or pollinators like bees.

2. Health and Safety

Traditional pest control methods often rely on potent chemicals that can pose health risks to humans and pets. Residual chemicals left behind after treatment can contribute to indoor air pollution or cause allergic reactions. By reducing the use of harmful chemicals, RIS minimizes the risk of exposure to toxic substances, promoting healthier living spaces.  With the industry going towards perimeter-only treatments, it greatly reduces human exposure to chemicals, while providing the same results and benefits of treatment.

Additionally, the use of eco-friendly products and natural pest control methods is safer for children, pets, and individuals with sensitivities or respiratory issues. In homes with young children or elderly family members, this added level of safety is a significant advantage.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Though reduced impact service may seem like a more expensive option initially, it can actually prove more cost-effective over time. By preventing infestations before they start, utilizing precision treatments, and reducing the need for repeat applications, homeowners may see a decrease in the overall cost of pest control.

4. Long-Term Pest Control

Traditional pest control methods often take a reactive approach, treating symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of infestations. Reduced impact service, however, focuses on integrated pest management, which is more proactive and sustainable. Through a combination of preventative measures, monitoring, and strategic treatments, RIS provides long-term control that helps reduce the likelihood of future infestations.

Conclusion

The growing demand for environmentally responsible pest control solutions has led to the rise of reduced impact service as an alternative to traditional methods. By prioritizing prevention, precision, and responsible product use, RIS minimizes the environmental and health impacts associated with pest management while still delivering effective results.

Our goal is always to provide the best results with the smallest amount of exposure and mitigate risks involved for all parties.  However, our area is a hotbed for scorpions and centipedes and therefore require more reactive and preventative treatments.  But our goal is always to provide results the safest and effective way possible and keep you comfortable in your home.