Rodent Awareness Week (October 18-24) is a campaign created by the National Pest Management Association to educate the public about the potential harm associated with rats and mice. In addition to damage to structures and property, rodents can transmit disease to other animals and humans.
See our collection of blog posts on the integrated pest management of rodents or our website for rodent and vertebrate management including Pest Notes:...
- Author: Elaine Lander
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Most of us have experienced itchy skin from a biting insect at least once in our lives. Insects and spiders such as mosquitoes, ticks, mites, bed bugs, fleas, and head lice can and do bite people. But have you ever felt like something bit you, but you didn't see what did it? This happens to all of us from time to time, but some may feel like they are getting bit constantly, are itchy, or have the sensation that bugs are crawling on them or underneath their skin. Yet they can't find the bugs. Because the insects may be too small or too fast to catch, it might be hard to convince others of the problem.
This unexplained itching feeling can be very bothersome to those experiencing it and can lead to stress. The issue is addressed in...
- Author: Donald R. Hodel
- Posted by: Elaine Lander
Damage and...
- Author: Cindy Kron
- Posted by: Elaine Lander
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a new exotic pest that was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since moved to other nearby states (Figure 1). Everyone, including home gardeners and retail nursery and garden center employees, can play a significant role in keeping this exotic pest out of California by being the eyes and ears needed for early detection.
The spotted lanternfly is a sizable planthopper insect which is about 1 inch long and 0.5 inch wide (Figure 2). It originates from northern China and it can also be found in Vietnam,...
- Author: Belinda J. Messenger-Sikes
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Like outdoor plants, houseplants can also experience pest problems. Did you know that too much or too little watering is the most common way that houseplants die? They can also suffer from too much or too little light, incorrect fertilization, and a variety of pests and diseases. Knowing the proper growing conditions for your houseplant and checking regularly for signs of pests or disease are the best ways to keep your houseplants healthy.
If your houseplant is looking unhealthy, our newest publication Pest Notes: Houseplant Problems can help you find out what may be wrong. Authored by UCCE Environmental Horticulturalists Dennis...