Ticks are notorious for spreading a variety of dangerous illnesses, but Lyme Disease is probably the most infamous among them. Over the last few years, this disease has only become more common throughout Virginia, so if you live in the area or plan to visit, it’s important to be aware of what Lyme Disease is, how it spreads, and how you can protect yourself.  Do All Ticks Spread Lyme Disease? Not all ticks spread Lyme disease. The primary species known to transmit Lyme disease-causing bacteria is the black-legged tick, also commonly called the deer tick. These ticks acquire the bacteria w ..read more

Have you ever walked into your garden to find a colossal spider weaving its web between your trees? This isn’t just any garden spider; its size and appearance are startling, making you wonder what kind of creature it is. You might be facing the Joro Spider, an orb-weaver species that’s been capturing attention as it pops up in various states along the eastern United States – now including Virginia. In this guide, we dive into the fascinating world of the Joro Spider, shedding light on what makes this species unique and whether you should utilize spider extermination or be concerned about its ..read more

Embarking on a traveling adventure offers a wonderful chance to discover new places, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and create lasting memories. Unfortunately, amid the thrill of exploration lies a frequently underestimated concern, the potential of encountering bed bugs in hotels and Airbnb rentals. These small, stealthy pests can effortlessly tag along back to your home, leading to a nightmarish infestation. Let’s examine the difficulties associated with stumbling upon bed bugs during your travels and the crucial steps to prevent them from taking root in your home. Bed Bugs and Travel ..read more

The Hammerhead worm is a fascinating flatworm with a head shaped like a hammer, which makes it unique. These creatures have a special ability to produce tetrodotoxin, a powerful neurotoxin also found in puffer fish and blue-ringed octopuses. If you happen to come across a Hammerhead worm, it’s crucial to remember not to touch it! Identifying Hammerhead Worms The last thing that any homeowner wants is Hammerhead worms infesting their yard. Before handling these worms or squishing them yourself, take the precaution of looking for some identifying features and characteristics of the worm. A head ..read more

As the long, lazy days of summer gradually give way to the crisp, cool embrace of autumn, many residents of Virginia assume that the threat of pests also dwindles. However, nature has its own plans, and late summer brings with it a surge in pest activity that can catch us off guard. The weather is still warm and outdoor activity is still in full swing, allowing for pest populations that thrive in summer to take advantage of opportunities to enter our homes.    Late Summer Pests and Their Habits  With gardens in full bloom and an increased presence of humans engaging in out ..read more

Attention, dog lovers in the beautiful state of Virginia! Are you tired of playing a never-ending game of hide-and-seek with ticks? While it may seem impossible to keep these blood-sucking pests away, with the right precautions you can help your furry friends avoid itchy bites all summer long. Read on to learn expert tips from the tick exterminators at Loyal Termite & Pest Control. Tick Talk: Why Ticks Are a Big Deal Ticks may be tiny, but they pack a punch when it comes to harming your furry companion’s well-being. From Lyme disease to other tick-borne illnesses, these sneaky critters can ..read more

If you are a Virginia homeowner considering installing new insulation, you may be familiar with TAP insulation. At Loyal Termite & Pest Control, we are licensed TAP Insulation installers! TAP stands for Thermal Acoustical Pest Control insulation. It is a type of insulation designed to provide homeowners multiple benefits beyond just temperature control.  What Is TAP Insulation? TAP insulation is loose-fill insulation made from recycled paper treated with borates and a fire retardant. This insulation increases a home’s comfort and energy efficiency when blown into crawl spaces, wa ..read more

 Springtime in Ashland is marked by the emergence of blooming trees and flowers. With this beauty also comes an unavoidable truth: the beginning of mosquito season. The increase in temperature and rainfall creates the perfect environment for these pests to begin breeding. Mosquitoes are opportunistic and can lay their eggs in small amounts of water. It is important to start mosquito prevention early; personal measures and professional pest control together can help you be pest-free this year!  The Dangers of Mosquitoes Mosquitoes are not only annoying pests that cause itchy ..read more

As the gloom of winter fades many people begin to plan for their annual spring cleaning marathon. Spring cleaning has many benefits such as decreasing stress, reducing clutter and  improving your overall mental and physical health. Additionally, a spring clean is the best time to check for signs of pests in your home and take preventative measures to ensure your home is not attracting any unwanted guests. How to Prevent Pests in your Home While you are spring cleaning, it is important to make sure your home is as attractive to pests as possible. Here are a few steps to add to your cleanin ..read more

Kissing bugs may sound romantic, but you’re not going to love the reality of these creepy critters. The reason for their nickname is that these minuscule pests are infamous for biting people in the middle of the night, usually near the mouth. Waking up covered in bites on your face is unpleasant enough but can kissing bugs actually be deadly? The pros at Loyal Termite & Pest Control share the answer as well as advice on how to keep kissing bugs, and other insects, out of your home. Kissing Bugs: What are They? Triatomine bugs, sometimes known as “kissing bugs,” are parasitic insects that ..read more