Direct Hit Pest Control Blog
Black widow spiders are among the most infamous pests in the Sacramento area. While they tend to avoid humans, black widows will bite if provoked, and their venom can cause serious symptoms like muscle pain, cramping, and nausea. For homes, businesses, and families, effective black widow control is about safety. When you need professional pest eradication in Sacramento this summer, get in touch with Direct Hit Pest Control. Identifying Black Widows Adult females are shiny black with a rounded abdomen and a distinctive red or orange hourglass shape on the underside. They typically measure about 1.5 inches, including their legs. Males, which are smaller and lighter in color with pink or white markings, are rarely seen and are not considered dangerous. The female’s dramatic appearance and toxic bite make her the primary concern when it comes to infestations. Where Black Widows Like to Hide Black widows are commonly found in quiet, undisturbed areas such as garages, basements, woodpiles, sheds, and under outdoor furniture. They spin messy-looking webs close to the ground or in dark corners and often stay hidden during the day. Unlike classic symmetrical webs, black widow webs feel noticeably stronger when you run a hand or stick through them. If you see one spider, there’s a chance there are more nearby. Why Summer Brings a Spike in Activity Black widows become more active during summer, particularly in hot, dry climates. Warm temperatures speed up their development and mating cycles, which means you're more likely to spot them during June, July, and August. In addition, outdoor activities and open doors or windows during the summer increase the likelihood of these spiders finding their way indoors. Tips for Prevention and Control To reduce the risk of an infestation, keep outdoor storage areas organized and clutter-free. Seal up cracks around your home’s foundation, doors, and windows. Shake out shoes, gloves, and gear stored in garages or sheds. If you notice webbing or signs of spiders, don’t reach in blindly—black widows prefer to stay hidden but will bite if disturbed. Pest Control in Sacramento Direct Hit Pest Control provides professional residential and commercial pest control in Sacramento, Rio Linda, and the surrounding California communities. Our team has more than 30 years of pest control experience, giving us the knowledge and know-how to provide the highest quality services. We routinely help our clients with insect infestation and prevention. If something unwanted is living in your trees, yard, or under your roof, it’s best to let a professional pest control technician remove it so you don’t put yourself at risk of bites or other injuries. To request an estimate or more information about pest control in Sacramento, give our friendly team a call at (916) 992-6870 today.
If you’re dealing with rodents or other pests, you’ve probably heard the buzz around Integrated Pest Management (IPM). It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to keep pests under control without relying solely on chemicals. In California, this approach has become more important than ever, especially with recent changes to the laws around rodent control. When you need pest control services, including IPM, in Sacramento or the surrounding towns, contact Direct Hit Pest Control . What Is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)? IPM is a strategy that combines multiple methods, including monitoring, exclusion, trapping, and chemical use, to manage pests in the most effective and environmentally responsible way possible. Examples of pest control methods include mowing tall grass, trimming trees away from buildings, and removing standing water. Sanitation efforts involve clearing debris, junk, and wood piles that provide shelter for pests, as well as cleaning up garbage and grease, especially around dumpsters in commercial areas like apartment complexes and restaurants. Chemical treatments may also be used when necessary. Why the Focus on Rodents? California has tightened regulations on the use of rodenticides, particularly first- and second-generation anticoagulant baits. These changes were made due to concerns of secondary poisoning to non-target wildlife that consume rodents that have ingested these baits. As a result, many Pest Control Operators are making adjustments to their rodent control strategy. What’s Changing in Rodent Control? Instead of using toxic rodent baits as the first option, many pest control companies are shifting to the use of non-toxic monitoring baits. These allow professionals to track rodent activity without the environmental risk. As soon as activity is detected, targeted trapping or active "acute" baits come into play. Exclusion - Your First Line of Defense One of the most effective tools in IPM is exclusion. To cut the problem off at the source, seal entry points, fix damaged screens, and block off areas where rodents could enter. Trim trees and bushes away from the building to prevent roof access. Remove potential hiding spots like debris, wood piles, junk, and overgrown vegetation to reduce rodent shelter on the property. This method pairs perfectly with monitoring, trapping, and limited baiting for a well-rounded rodent control strategy Pest Control in Sacramento Direct Hit Pest Control provides professional residential and commercial pest control in Sacramento, Rio Linda, and the surrounding California communities. Our team has more than 30 years of pest control experience, giving us the knowledge and know-how to provide the highest quality services. We routinely help our clients with insect infestation and prevention. If something unwanted is living in your trees, yard, or under your roof, it’s best to let a professional pest control technician remove it so you don’t put yourself at risk of bites or other injuries. To request an estimate or more information about pest control in Sacramento, give our friendly team a call at (916) 992-6870 today.
If you’ve ever had an unexpected visit from ants, spiders, or even rodents, you’re not alone, pests are a common problem for homeowners in Sacramento. Thanks to the area’s mild winters, warm summers, and proximity to rivers and farmlands, pests are active nearly year-round. But how exactly are these unwelcome guests getting in? We discuss the top culprits. When you need pest control services in Sacramento or the surrounding towns, contact Direct Hit Pest Control . Cracks and Gaps Around Doors and Windows Tiny openings around doors and window frames are like open invitations to pests. Ants, spiders, and even cockroaches can squeeze through the smallest gaps. Sacramento homes, especially older ones, often settle over time, causing seals to loosen. Weatherstripping and caulk can wear out too, making these entry points even more accessible. Unsealed Vents and Utility Openings Check the spots where cables, pipes, and vents enter your home. The gaps in these areas are a perfect entryway for rodents and insects. It only takes a dime-sized hole for mice to get inside. The rodent population is especially persistent in the winter when they are seeking warmth. Garage Doors and Basement Access Garages are often overlooked when it comes to pest prevention. Poorly sealed garage doors, especially in homes with attached garages, provide a clear path indoors. Basements and crawl spaces are also common targets, especially when moisture levels are high, which is a problem during Sacramento’s wet winter season. Pet Doors and Screen Tears That convenient pet door might be letting in more than just your dog or cat. Rodents and insects can slip through if the flap doesn’t seal tightly. Damaged window screens or door screens are another popular way for bugs to find their way inside during warm spring and summer months. Trees Near Roofs Keep your trees trimmed at least three feet away from your roof. Overhanging branches act like highways for rats, squirrels, and ants trying to move in rent-free. Once on your roof, it's a short trip into the attic through vents or gaps, especially where rooflines meet. And if you have a tile roof? That’s prime real estate for sneaky critters. While you're at it, give your shrubs and bushes a trim too. Keeping them neat and away from walls and windows makes it harder for pests to hide out or find their way inside. Pest Control in Sacramento Direct Hit Pest Control provides professional residential and commercial pest control in Sacramento, Rio Linda, and the surrounding California communities. Our team has more than 30 years of pest control experience, giving us the knowledge and know-how to provide the highest quality services. We routinely help our clients with insect infestation and prevention. If something unwanted is living in your trees, yard, or under your roof, it’s best to let a professional pest control technician remove it so you don’t put yourself at risk of bites or other injuries. To request an estimate or more information about pest control in Sacramento, give our friendly team a call at (916) 992-6870 today.
