The Joro Spider Phenomenon: Exploring Its Arrival in Tennessee

Joro spider in Tennessee - The Bug Man

Venture into your backyard, and you might be greeted by a sight both majestic and somewhat alarming—a massive spider dominating the landscape with its vast golden web. This isn’t a scene from a nature documentary but could very well be a reality in your garden, thanks to the Joro Spider. This species of orb-weaver spider, notable for its significant size and vibrant colors, has been making headlines for its spread across the eastern United States, now including Central TN.

In this guide, we delve into the fascinating world of the Joro Spider, exploring what makes it a subject of interest and whether it poses any real threat that requires expert spider exterminators.

What Does the Joro Spider Look Like?

The Joro Spider stands out for several reasons, not least its impressive size and the vivid colors that adorn its body. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in these spiders, meaning males and females have distinctly different appearances. Such distinctiveness in appearance underscores the Joro Spider’s unique place in the spider world, highlighting its adaptability and the complex interplay of genetics and environment that contributes to its survival and proliferation.

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.

The webs of the Joro Spider are as distinctive as the spiders themselves—large, golden, and incredibly resilient, capable of ensnaring a variety of insects.

Where is the Joro Spider Found?

The Joro Spider demonstrates a remarkable capacity for adaptation. While initially thought to thrive in expansive, natural areas, these creatures have shown an unexpected tolerance for urban environments. Their increasing presence near highways, despite being web-hunting spiders that depend on vibrations to capture prey, highlights their potential for widespread distribution.

Is the Joro Spider Dangerous?

Despite their imposing appearance, Joro spiders generally do not pose a danger to humans. Their bites are rare, and they are more likely to retreat than attack, making them more of a curiosity within our ecosystems than a threat.

Where Did the Joro Spider Come From?

Originally native to East Asia, the Joro Spider’s presence in the U.S. is attributed to an unintentional introduction, presumably via shipping containers that traverse the vast oceans. The subtropical climates of these areas mimic the spider’s natural habitat, providing an ideal setting for the Joro Spider to thrive and expand its range. 

What’s Next for the Joro Spider in Central TN?

The Joro Spider’s adaptability and successful breeding patterns suggest it is here to stay in Central TN, expanding its territory across the region. While this may be an unwelcome change to some there is still beauty in this new development due to their unique golden spun webs. 

Got Questions About Spiders?

While the Joro Spider’s size and unfamiliar presence may initially inspire apprehension, it’s essential to remember they are largely benign to humans. Their emergence in Central TN signifies the dynamic shifts in our local ecosystems.

If you have any concerns about the Joro Spider or require expert assistance with spider removal or managing other pests, The Bug Man is here to provide the expertise and solutions you need. Contact the Bug Man pest control experts today, our team is equipped to handle any pest challenge, ensuring your peace of mind is restored.

Cicadas 2024: A Natural Spectacle Occurs in Tennessee

Cicada Swarms in Tennessee - The Bug Man

This year, Tennessee and the surrounding states will be in the middle of a natural phenomenon. This cicada event is rare and creates a beautiful buzzing symphony. As we discuss the nature of cicadas and the rarity of this event, we hope this information can offer insight into our environment and the role cicadas play in influencing the ecosystem. Join The Bug Man as we explore the mystery of the cicadas, such as their lengthy life cycles, unique habitat, impact on the environment, and how we can exist alongside the musicians of the insect world. 

How Rare Is This Natural Phenomenon?

In 2024, we have the privilege of witnessing a unique ecological experience: the emergence of two cicada broods, a species that has separated over time. The beauty of this emergence is the ecological timeline that it follows without fail. That being noted, this event last occurred in the early 1800’s approximately 221 years ago, and will not happen again until another 221 years pass. This once-in-a-lifetime event will start in mid-May and end in June. 

Cicada Basics

Cicada’s habitat is unique since they live underground and only emerge for two reasons: to mate and to die. They have an exceptionally long lifespan of 13-17 years compared to most insects which typically live at least a few days or at most two years. When Cicidas emerge, they make a beautiful symphony of clicks and buzzes, which will be even more eventful during this rare event. 

Why Is This Important?

While it may be alarming to hear that these two broods will emerge en masse. Cicadas aren’t harmful to humans and should not be a cause for concern. The Bug Man pest control cautions that the only damage is to saplings and other vegetation. However, it is important to understand the environmental impact to prepare and witness this phenomenon without worry. 

Dealing With Cicadas

Since cicadas do not cause harm to humans and their habitat is underground. The Bug Man pest control experts do not recommend extensive extermination efforts. Instead, we recommend protective measures such as netting for saplings in your home or business. 

Be Aware of Potential Cicada Urine Propulsion

When marveling at the spectacle of cicada swarms, one less known yet unique aspect to consider is their ability to eject urine forcefully. Cicadas, despite their diminutive stature, can eject fluids with surprising velocity from their bodies. Unlike other insects that feed on xylem and release urine in mere droplets, cicadas can shoot their urine at velocities up to three meters per second, surpassing some larger creatures in speed. This extraordinary feat stems from their consumption of large amounts of xylem, making droplet excretion inefficient. Therefore, if you find yourself unexpectedly sprinkled on a clear day while cicadas are active, it’s likely due to their rapid urine expulsion from above.

Looking Ahead

The emergence of two cicada broods is not just a visual or auditory beauty but also a reminder of nature’s balance and complexity. We hope everyone who witnesses this event can learn how to co-exist with nature’s gifts and observe this phenomenon that spans centuries 

Join The Bug Man Pest Control Experts as we all bear witness to this extraordinary event, with the understanding that this event is a gift from nature and an insight into our ecological system’s fight to maintain its delicate balance. 

Late Summer Pests

Cockroaches on wall | The Bug Man

Summer is a time of abundance; an abundance of sunshine, fresh fruit, memories, and unfortunately pests. While many people hope the end of summer also signals the end of pest season, some find that it is quite the opposite. During the late summer, many pests become a greater nuisance. Whether it is due to the warm weather, an increase in food, or for winter preparation, there’s no doubt late summer is a time for increased pest activity.

Late Summer Pests Found in Knoxville, Tennessee

While all pests are a nuisance, these late summer pests are particularly bothersome to many homeowners. Their increased activity during this time can turn outdoor gatherings into itchy affairs, and their intrusion into homes can create unwelcome disturbances.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in the warm and humid weather during the summer, but as summer slowly fades into fall, these heat-loving bugs will start invading homes in search of food and shelter from the cold. Late summer is the perfect time for these scavengers to find some of their favorite treats around your home: fallen fruit, decaying vegetation, and your barbeque leftovers.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are summer’s most frustrating pests. Many people hope to find reprieve from these biting pests as summer wanes, but many find mosquitoes to be even more active in the late summer. The warm weather encourages growth and breeding as well as increasing food availability for mosquito larvae, leading to a sharp increase in the mosquito population.

Rodents

During late summer, rodents such as house mice and Norway rats become more active as they seek shelter and food in preparation for the upcoming cooler months. With outdoor resources dwindling, these adaptable creatures are driven to enter homes and businesses, searching kitchens for whatever food they can steal.

Bed Bugs

Late summer is a time when many people end up with bed bug infestation. Although these pests are a year-round problem, there is a marked increase in infestations during the summer due to travel. Bedbugs can be found in vacation rentals, hotel beds, and on public transportation. These skilled hitchhikers latch onto luggage, clothing, and other personal items, making it easy for them to come home with you after your summer vacation.

The Bug Man – Tenessee’s Leading Pest Control Company

Ready to take control of late summer pests? Look no further than The Bug Man for comprehensive pest management solutions. Our expert team has over 20 years of experience tackling the surge of mosquitoes, bed bugs, cockroaches, and rodents that often become more active during this season. Don’t let these pests take over your home and outdoor spaces. Whether it’s preventative measures or eliminating an existing infestation, our professionals have you covered.

Are pests ruining your summer? Don’t let these summer pests turn into fall frustrations! Contact the Bug Man today and keep your home pest-free every season of the year.

 

What Should You Do If Your Dog Gets Bit by a Tick

woman checking dogs for ticks in TN | The Bug Man

Spring and summer is tick season. It’s crucial to be vigilant about ticks on your dogs since these tiny parasites can transmit diseases to humans and dogs alike. Some of the most common tick-borne illnesses include:

The symptoms of these diseases can vary, but typical signs by your dog include fever, joint pain, lameness, loss of appetite, and fatigue. To protect your dog from tick bites, learn about prevention methods, safe tick removal, and when to seek professional help.

How to Prevent Tick Bites on Dogs

The best defense against tick bites is to keep them from biting your dog in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your dog tick-free:

  • Avoid areas where ticks are likely to be found, such as tall grass, brush, woods, and leaf piles.
  • Use tick repellent or preventive products on your dog, such as collars, spot-on treatments, or oral medications. Consult your veterinarian for advice on the best options for your pet.
  • Check your dog for ticks daily, especially after spending time outdoors. Pay close attention to areas where ticks like to hide, such as the ears, neck, armpits, groin, and between the toes.
  • Maintain a clean and tidy yard by regularly mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, raking leaves, and removing any debris that could attract ticks.

How to Remove Ticks From Your Dog

If you find a tick on your dog, do not panic. You can remove it safely and easily by following these steps:

  1. Wear gloves or use a tissue to protect your hands from the tick’s saliva.
  2. Use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Avoid squeezing or twisting the tick’s body.
  3. Gently and steadily pull the tick straight out with consistent pressure. Do not jerk or yank it.
  4. Place the tick in a sealed container or a Ziplock bag with some rubbing alcohol. It may be useful for identification or testing if your dog shows signs of illness.
  5. Clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
  6. Keep a close eye on your dog for any symptoms of tick-borne diseases for several weeks. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Professional Tick Extermination

Despite taking preventive measures, you may still face a tick infestation in your home or yard. Ticks can hitchhike on other animals or people and infest your property. They can also hide in cracks and crevices, surviving for extended periods without feeding.

This is where professional extermination from The Bug Man becomes crucial. With over 20 years of experience, we are the trusted and experienced pest control company serving Central Tennessee. Schedule your appointment with The Bug Man today to tackle your tick problem head-on.

Keeping Wasps Out of Your Car: Tips for a Sting-Free Drive

Wasp on a car window in central Tennessee

Wasps are known for their painful stings and send many people running at the sight of these flying pests; the last place you want to encounter a wasp is inside your moving car! A wasp or other stinging insect in your car can pose a risk to your safety and the safety of others on the road. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent wasps and other stinging insects from building nests inside your vehicle.

Why Do Wasps Nest in Empty Cars?

An empty car is attractive to wasps for a few reasons. Sitting cars provide a sheltered and protected environment that offers warmth to these cold-blooded insects, especially in colder climates. They will build nests in hollow areas, such as the engine bay or interior, where they can benefit from the residual heat. 

Wasps often build their nests in sheltered, quieter areas. An unattended car that has been sitting for a while offers a hidden, undisturbed place for wasps to build their nests without interference.

In addition to shelter, a sitting car can provide food for a colony of wasps. Those crumbs and leftover snacks that have been hiding underneath your seats are the perfect all-you-can-eat buffet for wasps. 

Why Are There Wasps in My Car?

Several factors can attract wasps to your car, making it more likely for them to take up residence. Understanding these attractions can help you implement preventive measures:

  • Leftover Food and Sweets: Wasps are always on the hunt for food, particularly sweet and sugary substances. Any leftover food, sweet or spilled drinks inside your car can lure them in. 
  • Location: If your car is parked near flowers, garbage cans or other things that attract wasps it greatly increases the chances they will find their way into your car.
  • Air Fresheners: A pleasant smelling car is important for many people but little do they know it may be attracting stinging insects. A wasp cannot tell the difference between their favorite snack and your sweet smelling air freshener.
  • Gaps and Holes: Wasps can easily find their way into your car through small openings or gaps, such as open windows or damaged door seals. Ensure that all windows are tightly closed and any gaps are properly sealed to prevent them from entering.

Removing Wasps From Your Car

When it comes to removing wasp nests from your car, it is important to seek the help of a professional wasp extermination company like The Bug Man. Removing active wasps nests on your own can leave you with painful stings and may not completely remove the active nest.

The Bug Man’s technicians have 20 years of experience and knowledge to safely eliminate the nest without endangering yourself or others. We develop effective and environmentally friendly pest management plans centered around ongoing prevention, removal, monitoring, and exclusion.

Don’t become a wasp taxi! Contact The Bug Man today and we’ll get your back on the road so you can drive safely without any unwanted backseat drivers!

How to Remove Rodents From Your Yard

A rat in a Tennessee yard

Rodents are unwelcome guests in your yard. They can damage plants, dig holes, chew wires, contaminate food, and spread diseases. They can also move into your house and cause even more problems. To protect your health and property from the damage that these pests can cause, it’s crucial to know how to remove rodents from your yard and prevent them from coming back. 

How to Identify Rodents in Your Yard

Several types of rodents can infest your yard in Central Tennessee, but the most common are:

  • Deer Mouse: This small rodent has brown or gray fur with a white belly and feet. It has large ears and eyes and a bicolored tail. It can carry hantavirus and other diseases.
  • House Mouse: This rodent has gray or brown fur and a light belly. It has small ears and eyes and a long tail. It can contaminate food and cause allergies.
  • Meadow Vole: Small with brown or black fur and a gray belly. It has short ears and tail and a round body. It can damage plants and grass by gnawing and tunneling.
  • Norway Rat: Large rodent with brown or gray fur and a pale belly. It has small ears and eyes and a scaly tail. It can transmit diseases and parasites.
  • Pack Rat: Medium-sized rat with gray or brown fur and a white belly. It has large ears and eyes and a furry tail. It can collect various items and nest inside of them.
  • Roof Rat: Medium-sized rodent has black or brown fur and a light belly. It has large ears and eyes and a long tail. It can climb trees and wires and enter buildings.

Signs of Rodent Activity in Your Yard 

You do not want to share your home with rodents unless they are in a cage. But these unwelcome guests often invade thousands of houses across the U.S. every year. Like us, they are looking for a warm, cozy place and a reliable food source. Here are signs of a rodent problem in your yard. 

  • Rodent droppings 
  • Rodent tracks 
  • Rodent burrows 
  • Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, wires, or plants
  • Shredded grass, paper, insulation, or cloth

Rodent Removal

If you notice any rodents in your yard, you must act quickly to eliminate rodents. The sooner you take action, the easier it will be to prevent an infestation from spreading or causing additional damage. To get rid of rodents in your yard, here are some steps to follow:

  • Eliminate food sources to discourage rodents from feeding in your yard.
  • Eliminate water sources, such as leaky pipes, faucets, birdbaths, or ponds.
  • Eliminate shelter sources they can use, such as piles of wood, leaves, or debris; overgrown vegetation; or holes or gaps in structures.
  • Use traps to capture and remove rodents from your yard.
  • Use repellents to deter rodents from entering or staying in your yard.

Call a Professional Pest Control Service

While you can try some DIY methods to remove rodents from your yard, they may not be enough to eliminate the entire infestation or prevent it from recurring. Also, improper techniques may harm your health or the environment.

That is why it is best to call a professional rodent control service with the expertise and equipment to handle any rodent problem safely and efficiently. A professional pest control service can inspect your yard thoroughly and identify the type and extent of the infestation. They can also apply the most appropriate treatment methods based on your situation and preferences.If you need help with rodent removal in your yard in Central Tennessee, contact The Bug Man today. We provide free estimates and guaranteed results for all our pest control services.

The common black ground beetle

Beetle identification in Murfreesboro TN; The Bug Man

Roach or Beetle?

Over the past couple weeks, calls have been coming in with reports of a roach invasion! Reports of roaches in the garage, in the house, all around the house… what do we do?  We have good news, these are not roaches.  These are the common black ground beetles that emerge in the summer each year.

Fleas and Ticks driving you Wild

Closeup of a flea | The Bug Man serving Smyrna, TN

Are Fleas and Ticks driving you wild this summer?

Calls for flea and tick control have been on the rise over the past few weeks here at The Bug Man office.  It is the prime season for the fleas and ticks to be on the hunt for a food source.  And with the pets outside, the camping trips planned, and the barbecue grills on overdrive, we are providing the fleas and ticks with an opportunity to attack.  Fleas and ticks share many of the same habitats and when we enter these areas unprotected, they will attack.

Where do fleas and ticks live, breed, and hide?

This is a great question, and with this knowledge, you can be better prepared to protect yourself and your family.  Fleas and ticks prefer shady areas, and are unable to complete their life cycles in direct sunlight.  They will be found in high brush, grasses, mulch areas, around bushes and trees, and can even be found under decks.  Unfortunately, these are the same places that most pets like to rest, to stay out of the sun.  We recommend keeping the grass trimmed, brush cut back, and the pet out from under the deck.  These steps will also help eliminate the harborage areas for the fleas and ticks.

Steps you can take to protect from fleas and ticks.

We do recommend when you venture outside to use an insect repellant (according to label directions), wear long sleeve shirts and pants, and tuck your pant legs into your socks.  These steps will help keep many of the fleas and ticks off of you.  When you return from your outdoor adventures, be sure to inspect for ticks that may have attached to you.  They like to find all the nooks and crannies, so inspect well.

What can The Bug Man do to help prevent Fleas and Ticks?

The Bug Man now offers a preventative flea and tick add-on service that can be combined with our 4 Seasons Pest Service.  This has been a very popular service and offers peace of mind and is just pennies per day.  Our trained service technicians inspect and apply flea and tick treatments to key locations around the structure where the pests habitats are found.

Bed Bugs! What You Need to Know

Bed bugs spreading rapidly in Central TN

Bed bugs are being discovered on a daily basis here in the Middle Tennessee region. In houses, apartments, hotels and even retail outlets, it appears that everyone is a target. Bed bugs have been feeding on humans since the beginning of recorded history. The bed bugs were nearly eliminated from the United States until the past ten years. Now we hear reports of them on a daily basis. I am going to discuss how you may transport the bed bugs, ways you can identify the bed bugs, and steps you can take to help prevent an infestation.

First, we need to be able to identify a bed bug. The bed bug is nocturnal, or active at night. They hide in cracks and crevices until the lights go out, then they come out and hunt for a blood meal. The bed bugs do leave behind signs that they are present. If you pull back the bedding on a mattress or bedspring, you want to look for rust colored staining on the mattress, usually along the seams and edges, or between the mattress and boxspring. You also may see live, active bed bugs when you are searching! Also, look at the cracks and crevices around the headboard. You may end up staring one in the eyes! If you find bed bugs at a hotel, I would request a different room immediately. If bed bugs are discovered at your home, it is time to call in the professionals.

A few tips on traveling to a hotel: A. Don’t place your luggage on the bed, keep it on the opposite wall away from the bed. B. Check the mattress and headboard as described above as soon as you arrive at the room. C. Leave, with your bags, as soon as you find evidence of bedbugs. You might even take a few photos with your phone to document what you find as management may need to see proof.

Now, let us talk transportation. How are you going to move these bed bugs into your home? Unfortunately, the bed bug is a master at hitching a ride. The bed bug can be transported in a purse, on electronics, in clothing, bedding, personal belongings, and even in your car. We have had reports of bed bugs joining the party by traveling to a sleepover in a sleeping bag or backpack of young children.  I suggest that you are very careful about buying used furniture, clothing, and appliances from thrift stores, yard sales, or as a gift from a friend. Unless you know the place is bed bug free, you are taking a huge risk. We have heard from many customers stories of a friend or relative moving in and bringing an infestation of bed bugs with them. Or, they say how they got a great deal on a bedroom set, just to find out they now have a bed bug infestation. Saving a few dollars on the front end may cost you thousands later. Be careful and fully inspect the items before you take possession of them.

I receive questions about how to rid a home or room of bed bugs. While it can be done, it is tough to do it as a homeowner. A professional will have the proper tools, training, and products on hand to have the best success eliminating the bed bug infestation. It is always easiest to solve a bed bug problem when it first presents itself, so don’t wait a few weeks or months to see if they just “go away.” The Bug Man has trained technicians ready to protect your home from bed bugs. Contact us for more information.

Honey Bee Swarms – HELP is here

Honeybees swarmed on a tree branch | The Bug Man serving Smyrna, TN

How can we help the honey bee?

We have asked ourselves this question here at The Bug Man for many years.  We practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in our business, this basically means to be successful at our jobs while making the smallest impact on our environment possible.  Each year, we receive calls reporting honey bee swarms hanging from trees and the sides of houses.  We attempt to seek out a beekeeper to catch and relocate these bees safely.  Most of the time, the beekeepers are unable to respond in a timely manner because most of them have regular jobs and can’t get away.  This year, we have solved this problem!  Dan and Vicky Cassidy, owners of The Bug Man, have become the beekeepers!

Endor Farms – Honey Bee Apiary

Dan and Vicky Cassidy have started a small honey bee farm out in Rockvale to relocate and raise honey bees.  They will be available to catch and relocate honey bee swarms to this property and to care for them.  Dan and Vicky also have contacts (other beekeepers) in the local association that would be happy to take any hives that they are unable to keep.   Dan and Vicky are members of the Rutherford County Beekeepers Association (since July 2014), and constantly seeking out additional training in this new field.  Eventually, our customers will be able to purchase the local honey at The Bug Man office.  We will keep everyone posted when it becomes available.

What to do if you see a honey bee swarm

Most people become worried and even scared when they see a honey bee swarm.  While this is a normal reaction, the honey bees are not usually dangerous during a swarm.  Their goal is to seek out a new home quickly before they run low on energy stores.  The queen will land on a branch or wall and all the bees will gather around the queen bee and form a large ball-like mound.  This is often referred to as a basketball of bees.  This is the best time to contact a beekeeper.  They may stay here for 30 minutes or 2 hours.  Eventually, they will move on to another area until they find a suitable home.

When you see this cluster of bees, call our office and we will dispatch Dan & Vicky, with the bee response equipment.  If successful, the honey bee cluster will be captured and relocated safely to Endor Farms and the bee will be able to pollinate the crops out in the country.

If you find a swarm of honey bees, call us at 615-217-7284 and we will dispatch our beekeepers!