Flies and Fly Control - How to Reduce Fly Populations

Flies are a nuisance and spread disease where ever they land. The common non-biting house fly (Musca domestica) can transmit over 100 disease-causing organisms and are linked directly to typhoid, cholera, dysentery, diarrhea, pinworms, roundworms, whip worms, hookworms and tapeworms, among others. Disease-causing organisms are picked up by flies from garbage, sewage, rotting debris, dead animal carcasses, animal excrement, etc. and are directly transmitted to us by way of their mouthparts or through their vomit or feces to our food, food preparation surfaces, sanitary items and to almost anything else that we contact. The large number of farms, vineyards, dairies and citrus groves in Southwest Riverside County play a major part in the swarms we see throughout the year. Flies spend most of their time in the air, making flies one of the hardest pests to control.

Flies are vectors of disease.

Another potential challenge for eliminating flies is elimination of their larval developmental sites, which could extend beyond your yard and into a nearby farm or neighbor's residence. These developmental sites may be at some distance from the adult nuisances. 

Things You Can Do At Home to Reduce Fly Populations

• Keep all drains clean and clear. Grease pits should be cleaned at least monthly.
• Dispose of garbage in a timely manner, make sure your trash can lids are snug fitting.
• Keep trash cans far from windows or doors.
• Keep windows and doors screened, check windows and doors for gaps and holes where flies can squeeze through.
• Reduce rotting vegetation and fallen fruit if your yard has gardens or fruit trees.
• Pick up all animal waste on a regular basis
• Remove all dead animals.
• Keep exposed food covered.
• Do not over water houseplants.
• Do not let food buildup under tables or in other hard to reach areas.
• Mop or steam clean floor on a regular basis.

Fly Management Program

Flies are difficult to completely eliminate, however AmeriGuard’s Fly Management Program will help to reduce your current flies, as well as help control any future fly infestations. Most fly infestations originate outside.  To achieve optimum fly control, our licensed technician will apply a specially formulated fly bait product on the back wall of your property. This fly bait will draw flies to the treated area, eliminating them as they contact it. This treatment will not completely eliminate flies but is highly effective at dramatically reducing your fly problem. Future service treatments will be exterior-only, without requiring you to be home or having to worry about scheduling conflicts. AmeriGuard offers Monthly, Bi-Monthly and one time fly services with no contract required.

Fly Control

Are flies becoming a nuisance in your yard? Contact your local pest professionals at AmeriGuard Pest Defense by calling (951) 652-0505 for a free quote. You can also submit a request online by filling out this form and someone will contact you within 24 hours during normal business hours.

Wood Destroying Organisms & Escrow Inspections

Most residential and commercial sales of real property require a termite inspection as a necessary step in the escrow process. 

AmeriGuard Pest Defense is honored to partner with local Real Estate Agents in Southwest Riverside County, including the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley, Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, French Valley, Canyon Lake, Lake Elsinore, Perris, Nuevo, Moreno Valley, Cherry Valley,  Banning and Beaumont. AmeriGuard's licensed termite inspector will perform a termite inspection for a nominal fee. If the report is clear of any Wood Destroying Organisms, a clearance will be issued. If any evidence of Wood Destroying Organisms are found, the inspector will cover all of the findings and solutions that are available, saving you and your client money. 

AmeriGuard Pest Defense is experienced in the following termite treatments for drywood termites and/or subterranean termites:

• fumigation
• borate foam treatments
• secondary "local" spot treatments 
• wood repair
• subterranean treatments

Let AmeriGuard be your FIRST choice or your SECOND opinion.

If you are looking to use a local and licensed professional company like AmeriGuard for your next termite escrow inspection, we will waive the first inspection fee of $75 for first-time real estate clients. Just mention the below termite inspection coupon when scheduling your inspection. For all future inspections, the inspection fee will be waived when any work is performed.   

Why Use AmeriGuard?

fully licensed 

bonded & insured

locally owned & operated

family and veteran-owned

quick report turn-around

Contact AmeriGuard Pest Defense today by calling (951) 652-0505 to schedule your termite inspection. 

Fleas & Flea Control Service - Habitat, Life Cycle and Health Concerns

Fleas are a common pet pest. These blood feeding ectoparasites require blood meals from the hosts that they infect.Not only do fleas cause discomfort such as pain and itching by biting, but they also can spread diseases and pathogens. Fleas can infest a residence when they fall off your furry four-legged pets and onto fabric bedding, furniture, carpet and reproduce quickly. However, it is also possible to acquire a flea infestation without animals in the home. This could be a sign of potential rodent problem or stray cats and birds could be transferring fleas into your yard. The expert jumping skills and hitchhiking abilities of fleas allow them to transport themselves effortlessly and move easily once they invade a residence. 

Most fleas infest mammals and some fleas infest birds.The most important flea to people in Southwest Riverside County are cat and dog fleas. Cat and dog fleas are host fleas, spending their entire adult life on their host, compared to nest fleas which primarily infest rodents and birds.

Flea Health Concerns

Flea bites can cause pain and irritation since they feed on blood with tube-like mouth parts. The most common flea found in Southwest Riverside County is the cat flea, which infests both cat, dogs and humans. The dog flea is rarely found in North America. The oriental rat flea is of historical significance and is the main vector of the highly virulent bubonic plague or "black death". Dog and cat fleas can transmit other pathogens such as tapeworm. Flea saliva can cause skin allergies in pets and humans. 

Flea Life Cycle

A flea’s life cycle begins when the female lays eggs after feeding. Fleas can lay up to 50 eggs a day, releasing an egg per hour, making areas where the host sleeps one of the primary habitats of eggs and developing fleas. Flea eggs are impervious to pesticides and treatments against them and hatch 2-14 days after being laid. Normal flea populations consist of 50% eggs, 35% larvae, 10% pupae and 5% adults. Fleas are able to detect movement, pressure, heat, noise, or carbon dioxide in order to find a host.

Fleas transmit diseases.

Flea Inspection

AmeriGuard’s Flea Defense Service begins with a licensed technician providing a full inspection of your home. During the inspection, your technician will identify all flea problem areas as well as potential flea harborages. Fleas are often located under porches and decks as well as pet bedding, shoes, pant legs or blankets. 

Preparation For Service
For your protection, AmeriGuard requires all flea services to comply with our Flea Control and Preparation Checklist before the flea treatment can begin. We recommend vacuuming thoroughly and disposing of your vacuum bag, picking up all toys and objects on the floors and moving all furniture away from the walls. Upon arrival, your flea technician will verify completion of the preparation checklist. Failure to complete the steps listed in the preparation checklist may delay treatment and potentially void any guarantees on our flea service.

Flea Pest Control Service
AmeriGuard Pest Defense treats for fleas using specially formulated, low toxicity chemicals and insect growth regulators. This one-two combination eliminates both active adult fleas and prevents larval forms of fleas from reaching maturity.
Flea Control for Pets
During your flea treatment, we ask that all pets be removed from the premises. In addition, we ask that all pets be on flea control medication or have flea treatments performed at the time of service. Without eliminating fleas where they start, your pets will continue to re-infest your home.
Follow-up Flea Treatment
Two weeks after your initial treatment, your technician will return for a follow-up visit. During the follow up, your technician will inspect your problem areas for signs of remaining fleas. If needed, your technician will re-treat problem areas for total control. Our flea extermination methods have one of the lowest re-treatment rates in the industry.

Flea Prevention Tips 

• Keep lawns maintained to prevent hiding spots and harborages
• Address any rodent problems immediately 
• Keep pets on a leash while outside and bathe and groom dogs and cats regularly
• Wash pet bedding and pet toys often
• Clean and vacuum carpets frequently 

Flea Problems?
Are you battling a flea problem or have just begun to see emerging signs of an infestation? The longer you wait or try to unsuccessfully wage a war against fleas yourself, the more eggs will be produced and the problem will worsen. If you find adult fleas, then there may also be hundreds of eggs inside your home waiting to hatch. Infestations pop up quickly and are harder to control the more time that goes by.Call your local and licensed pest professionals at AmeriGuard Pest Defense at (951) 652-0505 or visit our website and send us a submission form. We will get in touch with you within 24 hours of receipt of your request. 

German Cockroaches - Habitat, Threats, Treatment and Prevention

The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is the most common species of cockroach and is found worldwide. It does not take long for a German cockroach infestation to develop. In fact, all you need is a pregnant female cockroach with an egg sac to begin a cockroach problem, which can seemingly turn into a full blown infestation overnight. 

German Cockroach Habitat

German cockroaches have adapted to living with humans and have become quite difficult to control. The German Cockroach is the only species of cockroach in southern California that carries its egg sack on its back, protecting the eggs from predators and pest control treatments. The German cockroach is a social insect, establishing large colonies and then spreading via wall voids. German cockroaches prefer to live in tight cracks and crevices often near food and moisture sources, making residential and commercial kitchen environments prime habitats and harborages.

German cockroaches are found in many locations throughout a building, however, they prefer warm and humid places, including kitchens and bathrooms. Excellent hitchhikers, German cockroaches are easily transported via grocery bags, cardboard boxes, drink cartons and secondhand appliances. 

German cockroaches can feed on most anything, including grease, soaps, glue and toothpaste.

German Cockroach Kitchen Infestation

German Cockroach Threats

Not only are German cockroaches a bothersome pest, they have also been linked to outbreaks of illness and allergic reactions. It is estimated that cockroaches can spread at least 33 types of bacteria, 6 variations of parasitic worms and as many as 7 other types of human pathogens. Cockroaches shed their bodies as they mature and grow into a new skin leaving the vacated shape within wall voids. Medical reports show that cockroach allergens are to blame for allergic reactions in children and can worsen asthma attacks. 

German Cockroach Treatment

Ameriguard Pest Defense's German Cockroach Defense Service begins with a licensed technician providing a full inspection of your residence and property. During the inspection, your technician will identify potential problem areas around your home or office, paying extra attention to the kitchen, bathrooms and other sources of food and water. After the source of your problem areas have been identified, your technician will point out other potential cockroach harborages and steps you can take to reduce future German cockroach infestations.Your technician will create a customized German Cockroach treatment plan for year-round protection, using the most effective and environmentally-conscious control solutions.

German Cockroach Prevention

Once a German cockroach infestation is underway, it is very difficult if next to impossible to treat on your own, primarily because a single female German cockroach can breed at a rate of six generations per year. However, they are some prevention tips to insure that you do not unknowingly introduce a cockroach problem into your residence. These tips will also help if you have recently eradicated a cockroach infestation and want to avoid a re-invasion.

• Frequent vacuuming and disposing of garbage regularly
• Keep counter tops and kitchen surfaces and floors clean and free of crumbs and grease that can attract pests
• Pay close attention on kitchens and bathrooms, specifically under appliances and plumbing access lines that are prone to cockroach infestations
• Dispose of cardboard materials from warehouse and big box stores immediately after removing store contents and inspect any second hand appliances brought into your home

Preparation For Service

For your protection, AmeriGuard Pest Defense requires all German cockroach services to comply with our Client Preparation Checklist before the German cockroach treatment can begin. The Client Preparation Checklist can be reviewed on our website here. Upon arrival, your technician will verify completion of the preparation checklist. Failure to complete the steps listed in the preparation checklist may delay treatment and potentially void any guarantees on our cockroach service.

German Cockroach Infestation?

If you suspect a German cockroach infestation, contact your local and licensed pest professionals at AmeriGuard Pest Defense today by calling (951) 652-0505. You may also contact us on the web by sending us a message here.

Bed Bugs & Bed Bug Control

"Sleep tight! Don't let the bed bugs bite!" How many of us have heard this common phrase before bedtime? Up until World War II, bed bugs were a common household pest and this admonishment of avoiding bed bugs was playful though serious. It was not uncommon for previous generations to place shallow dishes beneath bedposts filled with kerosene to prevent bed bugs from climbing onto bed furniture.

Bed bugs require blood meals to survive.

Bed Bug History

Bed Bugs have been infesting and feeding upon humans since the beginning of time. Bed Bugs were a routine household pest in the early 1900s, but were mostly eradicated post World War II because of widespread use of synthetic pesticides, such as DDT and malathion, and improvements in hygience and sanitation. However, the late 1990s saw a resurgence of bed bugs and within a few short years, bed bugs had spread to all 50 states and are now a serious concern once again. Over the last 5 years, bed bug control has become a real problem in  Southwest Riverside County. 

Bed Bug Habitat

Bed bugs hide in small spaces during the day, usually near sleeping areas and are most active at night between midnight and dawn. Bed bugs congregate tightly together for protection usually in and underneath unfinished wood material, such as the underside of bedframes, nightstands and in the seams and tufts of mattresses and pillows.  Bed bugs are attracted by warmth and the presence of carbon dioxide. 

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites can be painful and itchy to some while others may have no reaction at all. Each individual may react differently to a bed bug bite, depending on his or her level of sensitivity and allergy to the bed bug's saliva. One bed bug can leave several bites when feeding. At this time, bed bugs are not known to transfer any diseases.

Bed Bug Inspection

AmeriGuard’s Bed Bug Defense Service begins with a licensed technician providing a full inspection of your home. During the inspection, your technician will identify all bed bug problem areas as well as potential bed bug harborages. Your trained technician will create a customized bed bug treatment plan and ensure you are fully educated and prepared for your bed bug service.

Choosing a Bed Bug Control Company

Bed bug infestations can spread quickly and if not addressed efficiently can spread to the rest of the house. It is important to choose a company that is both licensed and insured and has substantial experience in bed bug control situations. AmeriGuard provides extensive employee training in bed bug biology, habitat and treatment. 

Bed Bug Control Services

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, AmeriGuard Pest Defense is available to schedule a convenient inspection time. Call (951) 652-0505 to schedule your inspection and speak with trained staff to help answer any bed bug related questions. For more information for bed bug service details, please review the Bed Bug Preparation Checklist.

How to Control Those Pesky Gophers

There has been a surge of Pocket Gopher activity in Southwest Riverside County, especially in the Hemet - San Jacinto valley and surrounding communities of Menifee, Winchester, French Valley, Murrieta, Temecula, Canyon Lake, Lake Elsinore, Sun City, Moreno Valley, Perris, Riverside, Banning, Beaumont, Cherry Valley and Nuevo. 

Gopher Burrow System

In Southern California, Pocket Gophers DO NOT hibernate and are not only active year round but also breed year round as well. Their diet consists of foliage and roots, grasses and live bark of shrubs and trees. They are particularly fond of broad-leaf herbaceous wild flowers and weeds, including dandelions, clover and alfalfa. Pocket Gophers are a vertebrate pest and a special agricultural license is required  to treat this type of burrowing pest.


As you can see above, the gopher tunnel system is extensively and intricately constructed, with drainage tunnels, food storage areas, a nesting site and a potty hole. The gopher tunnel systems run parallel to the ground. The fan-shaped mounds that you see popping up in your yard are the lateral runs where they expel all of that extra dirt. Pocket Gophers seal this hole and do not return once it is plugged. This is why many homeowner's fail in their efforts.

At-Home Gopher Control Options

Homeowners often report trying several at-home methods before finally contacting agricultural pest specialist at AmeriGuard Pest Defense. By this point, homeowner's are exasperated and defeated in the personal war being fought in their beautifully landscaped yards. We hear stories of homeowner's shoving sticks of wintergreen gum into gopher holes, sticking the hose and trying to flood the tunnel with water in attempts to "drown that sucker", pouring coffee into gopher mounds as well as human urine! All of these failed attempts do nothing more than prolong the treatment, while the gophers continue to dig and push up dirt - sometimes up to 3 mounds a day per gopher. 

Over-the-Counter Gopher Control Options

Are you not having any luck with the gopher bait available at your local hardware store? First, the problem could be with the application methods, but let's suppose you get the bait into the right location. Baits available to consumers require multiple feedings. Let's assume that your gopher eats a little of the bait. It is highly possible that the gopher will become "bait shy" and avoid future feedings since one feeding is not enough to provide a lethal dose and get rid of the gopher.

Gopher Experts Riverside County

AmeriGuard Pest Defense gopher experts know exactly where to probe to identify those intricate underground burrow systems for our residential customers. We have several different treatment plan options available to fit your unique situation ranging from baiting to the pesticide-free Rodenator service.  

AmeriGuard is available to answer your gopher questions over the phone by calling (951) 652-0505. Call us today to see which gopher eradication method is right for your yard. 

Bird & Pigeon Control

Bird Problems

Birds can be a source of enjoyment and pleasure for some, while some birds, such as pigeons, can become a bothersome nuisance when they make themselves too comfortable on ledges, eaves and overhangs. Pigeons are an example of wildlife that poses a growing pest control problem and health concerns for homeowners and businesses.

Pigeons roost in roof voids and other protected areas and are adapted to living with humans, often depending on close contact with humans for food as well as roosting and nesting locations. 

Pigeon, also known as a Rock Dove

Pigeon Threats and Health Concerns

Pigeons are of medical concern because then can cause more than 50 diseases and ectoparasites, including the spread of cryptococcosis, toxoplasmosis, salmonella, food poisoning, among others. Pigeon droppings (guano) are unpleasant and can be hazardous, causing slips and falls as well as harbor the fungus histoplasmosis, which contributes to lung disease. Other pests thrive on birds, such as fleas, lice, mites, ticks and others. Pigeon droppings are acidic and can discolor buildings and deface surfaces and car finishes. 

Pigeons nest in undisturbed and protected voids.

 Pigeon Control and Exclusion

To prevent or eradicate pigeons, AmeriGuard Pest Defense's bird experts will make roosting and nesting areas inhospitable. At this time, AmeriGuard achieves bird control by mechanical methods to modify the structure, which may include: netting, metal wire, bird spikes and metal flashing. Filling in access to voids, sloping resting areas with metal flashing and preventing landing by using devices will help control an emerging or existing bird problem. All materials will be primed and painted to match existing structures and blend in as effectively as possible. 

Metal flashing is painted to match exterior structure.

Bird Sanitation

As mentioned above, bird droppings can contain disease that can affect humans. It is important to treat the contaminated areas and nesting sites with a sanitation service. AmeriGuard is able to provide this additional service for bird control situations.

Bird droppings should be sanitized and disinfected.

Pigeon Infestation in Riverside County? 

If you are concerned with an ongoing or emerging bird infestation that is causing unsightly droppings, potential health hazards and noise concerns, contact your local licensed bird experts at AmeriGuard Pest Defense today for a quote or to schedule an inspection by calling (951) 652-0505 or submitting an online request.