Prickly Pear Wildlife

The Return of the Mosquitoes

While we can all agree that mosquitoes are a nuisance, they can cause quite a few problems for both people and animals including the spread of diseases.

What is “bird flu” and should you be concerned?

close up of chicken

Bird flu or avian influenza is a disease that occurs most commonly in domestic and wild bird species.  “Bird flu” is an umbrella term that covers all of the different strains and subtypes of the disease. In birds, the most common signs a bird or flock is infected include swelling alongside the eyes, nasal discharge, labored breathing, lethargy and death.

There’s a snake in my boot! A Pet Snake…

a close up of a snake

Snakes have a flexible spine containing hundreds of vertebrae (humans have 33) allowing them the flexibility to squeeze into tight spaces. This is what makes your pet snake an excellent escape artist. Instinctively, most species love to remain hidden by taking cover in their natural habitat and by using camouflage, keeping them safe from predators […]

Beetle Blitz: Battling the Bugs

close-up of a beetle on a stone

Beetles, with their hard exoskeletons and diverse appearances, are a fascinating group of insects. However, when they invade our homes, gardens, or crops, they can quickly become unwanted pests. From tiny carpet beetles to destructive Japanese beetles, these creatures can cause significant damage and even pose potential health risks. Beetle Basics Beetles come in countless […]

Zoonotic Diseases: Widlife Diseases that really Bite

zoonotic diseases

Wildlife, while often charming and fascinating, can pose significant health risks. Zoonotic diseases are illnesses transmitted between animals and humans and are a concerning reality when you come in contact with these animals, their den sites, or their feces as these diseases can be spread through various means, including bites, scratches, contact with bodily fluids, […]

Fly Away: Banishing Buzzing Pests

a close up of a fly on a stick

Flies, those pesky, buzzing insects, can quickly turn a pleasant day into a frustrating ordeal. From the annoying housefly to the disease-carrying fruit fly, these pests can invade your home or business, causing discomfort and potentially spreading germs.  Understanding the Fly Problem There are countless species of flies, each with its own unique habits and […]

Fleas Are a Real Itch

fleas are a real itch

Fleas are tiny, parasitic insects that can make your home an itchy nightmare. These blood-sucking pests can quickly infest your pets, your home, and even your yard. While they might seem like a minor annoyance, fleas can cause significant discomfort and even transmit diseases. To effectively combat a flea infestation, it’s essential to understand the […]

Groundhogs: Getting to Know Your Garden Guests

groundhog

Groundhogs, often playfully called woodchucks, are large rodents native to North America. While their exact population is difficult to estimate, they are widespread across the United States, particularly in the eastern and midwestern regions. These creatures are most active during the spring and summer months, emerging from their burrows in search of food. Their diet […]

Gopher It! All About America’s Unloved Undercover Critters

a gopher standing in grass

Gopher it! These little earth-moving mammals may be out of sight, but they’re certainly not out of mind – especially for homeowners who find their yards riddled with unsightly mounds of dirt. But before you grab the shovel and declare war, let’s dig a little deeper (pun intended) and learn more about these fascinating subterranean […]

Fox-y Facts: The Sneaky Sneaks of the Forest

a fox walking on grass

Fox are cunning canines with their bushy tails and inquisitive eyes, are found in abundance across the United States. These adaptable creatures inhabit a wide range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to suburban neighborhoods. While they are active throughout the year, foxes tend to be more visible during the cooler months when their prey […]