How Tucson Homeowners Can Prevent Kissing Bugs

You might never have heard of kissing bugs, but they can be a problem around Tucson during certain times of the year. Kissing bugs are part of a group of pests known as "occasional invaders." This group of pests gets its name from the fact that most of them usually invade homes when prompted by outside events, such as changes in weather or other environmental conditions, rather than being attracted to something indoors. Conquistador Pest & Termite, the best name in Tucson pest control, is here to help you understand kissing bugs and how best to respond to their presence in your home. First, let's talk about how to identify kissing bugs.

What Are Kissing Bugs?

Now that we've answered the question "what are occasional invaders?" let's look at a particular type of occasional invader. Kissing bugs, also called conenose bugs, are parasitic bugs. They get their name from their habit of biting humans on or near the lips. Their diet includes birds, reptiles, humans, and other mammals. Kissing bugs are nocturnal, meaning most of their activity happens at night. They spend most of the day hiding. Kissing bugs are usually between half an inch and an inch long. They range in color from light brown to black. Some kissing bugs have red, yellow, or tan marks on their abdomens. Kissing bugs have six legs and two antennae. Now that you know how to identify kissing bugs, we'll talk about what makes kissing bugs a little more dangerous than some of the other occasional invaders in Tucson.

Why Kissing Bugs Are A Nuisance Pest Around Tucson

Kissing bugs in Tucson are parasitic insects, meaning they pose a bit more risk than other types of occasional invader pests that don't bite or sting people. Kissing bugs can sometimes carry a parasite that causes a sickness called Chagas disease or kissing bug disease. Chagas disease can result in fever, fatigue, headaches or body aches, rashes, or swollen eyelids. If not treated, it can cause cardiac or intestinal issues, which can be deadly. It's important to seek treatment from a medical professional if you experience any of these symptoms. Fortunately, most people bitten by a kissing bug are barely affected at all.

Five Strategies Homeowners Can Use To Prevent Kissing Bugs

Now that you know a little bit more about kissing bugs and the possible dangers they may present, let's discuss how you can keep kissing bugs out of your home. In most cases, you should be fine if you know how to control occasional invaders.

Here are five simple tips:

1. Seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior and interior of your home. 
2. Replace any weatherstripping around windows and doors.
3. Get rid of any nuisance wildlife that could serve as hosts for other pests.
4. Store firewood off the ground and away from your home.
5. Call a professional pest control service if you suspect an infestation.

 These tips should help you keep out most occasional invaders, including kissing bugs. If you have a kissing bug problem, it's best to call a professional pest control company for help.

Why To Call The Professionals For Kissing Bugs In Tucson

While the prevention tips for occasional invaders shown above might help you keep kissing bugs out, they won't do much if they're already in your house. For problems like that, you can always call Conquistador Pest & Termite. We are a local, family-owned company and have been in the industry for over 45 years. We are committed to providing unbeatable customer service and even offer emergency services and free estimates. Call Conquistador Pest & Termite today for help with kissing bugs and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Tucson.