Sunday, February 9, 2025

The Fascinating Life Cycle of Moths

Moths, often overshadowed by their butterfly cousins, have a life cycle that's equally fascinating. It begins with an egg laid on a suitable surface, typically a plant or tree. Once hatched, the larvae—commonly known as caterpillars—begin feeding and growing. Depending on the species, the caterpillar may consume specific plants or materials.

After reaching a certain size, the caterpillar forms a pupa, also known as a cocoon or chrysalis, where it undergoes metamorphosis. Inside, it transforms into an adult moth. The adult moths are typically nocturnal, attracted to light, and are known for their distinct wings, which are often covered in scales. From egg to adult, the moth's transformation is a truly remarkable natural process.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Thursday, February 6, 2025

The three different ways mammals give birth - Kate Slabosky


All mammals share certain characteristics, like warm blood and backbones. But despite their similarities, these creatures also have many biological differences — and one of the most remarkable differences is how they give birth. Kate Slabosky details the placental, marsupial, and monotreme methods of giving birth. 

Lesson by Kate Slabosky, animation by Compote Collective.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Monday, February 3, 2025

Hornets: Nature’s Protectors (When Treated with Respect)

Hornets often get a bad rap for their sting and their tendency to defend their nests, but these misunderstood insects actually play a vital role in the ecosystem. As nature’s predators, hornets help keep pest populations in check, making them valuable to gardeners and farmers alike. They hunt a variety of insects, including aphids and caterpillars, keeping the balance in check for healthier plants and crops.

These social wasps live in colonies with a queen at the helm, who oversees the creation of new workers and drones. The workers are the ones that build their intricate, paper-like nests, crafted from wood fibers that they chew and mix with their saliva. They are highly effective hunters, and while they may seem intimidating, hornets rarely sting unless provoked or protecting their nests.

It’s important to remember that hornets, though capable of delivering a painful sting, generally only strike when they feel threatened. If you happen upon a nest near your home, it’s wise to call a pest control professional rather than trying to deal with it yourself. Hornets are protective of their territory, but once safely removed, you can continue to admire their contribution to nature from a distance.

In the bigger picture, hornets are just one piece of the puzzle that helps maintain the delicate balance of our ecosystem. So, while they might send a chill down your spine, they deserve a little more respect than they often get. Just remember to give them space, and they’ll continue doing their part in nature!

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Friday, January 31, 2025

Hornets: Nature’s Powerful Insect

Hornets are often misunderstood creatures, feared for their sting and aggressive behavior. However, they play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control pest populations and pollinate plants. These large, social wasps are closely related to yellowjackets, but they are typically larger and less aggressive unless provoked.

A hornet colony is typically led by a queen, who lays eggs that hatch into workers and drones. These workers build intricate nests out of wood fibers, which they chew into a papery substance. Hornets are particularly effective predators, hunting other insects, which helps to keep the balance in nature.

While hornets can sting, they generally do so only in self-defense. Their stings are potent, but they are less likely to sting without cause compared to other wasps. They are particularly protective of their nests, so if you encounter one, it’s best to keep your distance.

If you find a hornet nest near your home, it’s best to consult a pest control professional. While hornets can be beneficial in nature, their nests in close proximity to human activity can pose safety risks.

In the grand scheme, hornets, like many insects, are crucial players in maintaining the natural balance—just be cautious and respectful when they’re nearby!

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Monday, January 27, 2025

These Ants Use Their Babies As Glue Guns



Deep in tropical jungles lie floating kingdoms ruled by beautiful and deadly masters: They are sort of the high elves of the ant kingdoms: Talented architects that create castles and city states. But they are also fierce and expansionist warriors and their kingdoms are ensnared in a never ending war for survival. Oecophylla weaver ants.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Friday, January 24, 2025

Tackling Fleas: A Follow-Up Guide to Keep Your Home Flea-Free

Fleas are stubborn little pests that can quickly take over your home if left unchecked. If you've already tackled the basics of flea treatment for your pet, it’s time to dive into some additional steps to ensure you fully eliminate the problem. Here’s a quick follow-up on how to take your flea control efforts even further:

1. Treat Your Yard
Fleas don’t just live indoors—they can also thrive in your yard, especially in shaded or grassy areas. Use outdoor flea treatments or sprays to treat areas where your pets spend time. Regularly mow the lawn and clear any leaves or debris to minimize flea habitats.

2. Wash Pet Bedding and Toys
Your pet’s bedding, toys, and any fabrics they come into contact with need regular cleaning. Wash these items in hot water to kill fleas, eggs, and larvae. This should be done every few days until you no longer spot any fleas on your pet.

3. Focus on Hidden Areas
Fleas love to hide in places that are often overlooked, like cracks in the floorboards, behind furniture, and under rugs. Use flea sprays or flea bombs in these hidden spots to make sure you’re eliminating the entire infestation.

4. Keep Up with Preventive Care
Even after you’ve gotten rid of the fleas, it’s essential to stay on top of preventive treatments. Monthly flea treatments for your pet and regular cleaning routines will help keep the fleas from coming back.

With a thorough, multi-step approach, you can effectively rid your home of fleas and keep your pets comfortable and healthy. Consistency is key, so stay proactive and make flea prevention a regular part of your routine.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Fleas: How to Identify and Deal with the Little Pests


Fleas are tiny, pesky parasites that can cause big problems for both pets and homeowners. These small, wingless insects thrive by feeding on the blood of mammals, often making their home in your pet’s fur. If your pet is scratching more than usual or you notice tiny, dark specks in their coat, you might have a flea problem.

Fleas can cause itching, skin irritation, and in some cases, transmit diseases. They’re not just a nuisance for pets—fleas can also infest your home, hiding in carpets, bedding, and furniture.

The key to getting rid of fleas is a multi-step approach:

Treat your pet with flea prevention treatments like topical medications, collars, or oral pills.
Clean your home thoroughly, vacuuming carpets, furniture, and washing bedding to remove eggs and larvae.
Use flea sprays or powders in areas where fleas are likely to hide.
By staying proactive with treatment and cleaning, you can get rid of fleas and keep your pets—and home—comfortable and pest-free.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem



Saturday, January 18, 2025

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Earwigs: Small Pests with Big Potential

Despite their intimidating pincers, earwigs are generally harmless to humans. These nocturnal insects often find their way into homes during the colder months, seeking warmth and moisture. While they may cause minor damage to plants, particularly tender flowers and vegetables, they’re not typically a threat to structures. Earwigs are omnivores, feeding on both decaying organic matter and small pests. To keep them at bay, reduce moisture in your home, seal gaps in windows and doors, and remove debris where they may hide. With a little prevention, these curious creatures can be managed without causing major issues.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Sunday, January 12, 2025

The Earwig: Myth and Reality

Earwigs are often feared due to their pincers, but they are harmless to humans. These nocturnal insects prefer dark, damp environments like gardens, under rocks, or inside homes during colder months. Though they can damage plants by feeding on leaves and flowers, earwigs generally do not cause significant harm to structures. The myth that they crawl into ears is just that—a myth. To prevent an earwig infestation, seal cracks in windows and doors, reduce moisture levels, and remove plant debris. While they may be an unsettling sight, earwigs are mostly harmless and play a role in controlling other pests.


Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Amazing Time-Lapse: Bees Hatch Before Your Eyes | National Geographic


Witness the eerily beautiful growth of larvae into bees in this mesmerizing time-lapse video from photographer Anand Varma. Varma said the six-month project, for which he built a beehive in his workshop, gave him a new respect for the meticulous job of beekeeping.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Monday, January 6, 2025

How Do Carpenter Beetles Cause Damage?

The primary damage caused by carpenter beetles occurs during the larval stage. The larvae burrow into wood to feed on it, creating tunnels and galleries that can weaken beams, joists, and other wooden structures in your home. Over time, this can result in significant structural damage, especially if the infestation is left unchecked.

The adult beetles, which are about 1-1.5 inches long, will leave behind round exit holes, about the size of a pencil lead, once they have emerged from the wood. These holes can sometimes be the first sign of a problem, but the real damage is typically hidden inside the wood itself. Left untreated, the infestation can compromise the integrity of wooden structures, particularly in older homes.

How to Spot a Carpenter Beetle Infestation

The most obvious sign of a carpenter beetle infestation is the presence of small, round exit holes in wood surfaces, such as beams, furniture, or flooring. You might also notice fine, powdery wood dust, called frass, around these holes. This frass is actually the debris created by the larvae as they tunnel through the wood.

If you suspect a carpenter beetle infestation, look for the following signs:

  • Round exit holes in wooden structures
  • Powdery wood dust near holes or on the ground
  • Visible tunnels or galleries inside the wood (sometimes visible if the wood is cut open or severely damaged)
  • Adult beetles flying around or resting near wooden surfaces

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem

Friday, January 3, 2025

Understanding the Carpenter Beetle: A Silent Invader in Your Home

The carpenter beetle may not be as infamous as its close relative, the termite, but it can still cause significant damage to wooden structures in your home. These unassuming insects are known for their wood-boring habits, and while they might not be as destructive as termites, a carpenter beetle infestation can still be a cause for concern. Here’s what you need to know about carpenter beetles and how to protect your home from them.

What is a Carpenter Beetle?

Carpenter beetles are a type of wood-boring beetle that belong to the family Cerambycidae. There are several species, but the most common one found in North America is the Hylotrupes bajulus, or the old house borer. These beetles are typically brown or black with distinctive markings, and their larvae are the real culprits when it comes to damaging wood.

Unlike termites, which feed on cellulose, carpenter beetles do not eat the wood they tunnel through. Instead, they create extensive galleries in wood as they develop, which weakens the structure of the wood. The adult beetles will leave small exit holes in the wood when they emerge, often leading homeowners to discover an infestation.

Jeff Verges/Owner/Operator
742 Santa Anita Court
Eugene, OR 97401

541-688-0580 Eugene 
503-371-8373 Salem