When it comes to the ecosystem, some insects are not only not considered pests, but they are seen as beneficial to crops and plants. It’s important to strike a balance between keeping the helpful insects around and getting rid of those that are unhelpful. Of course, what’s considered a pest in one area of the world is not in another, so what insects don’t we kill, and more importantly, why?
Which insects do we NOT kill in Arizona?
Praying mantises
The first insect seems to break the tradition of invoking fear and even disgust in humans. Its unique prayer-like build, and bright green color and human-like movements set it aside from its fellow creepy crawlies. That insect is the praying mantis, and they are considered to be so helpful that some believe that killing a praying mantis carried a fine!
This is not true, but many gardeners, particularly in Arizona, Texas, and similar states, consider the praying mantis to be a beneficial insect and even release them into their yards each spring.
So, why are they so loved? Praying mantises consume many other insects that destroy crops, which can reduce and even eliminate a gardener’s need for pesticides. There is one catch, though: praying mantises don’t just feed on insects that damage crops – they also feed on those that are beneficial to them.
Still, praying mantises are not considered to be a pest. The law in Arizona does not technically protect them, but it is generally considered cruel and unnecessary to exterminate them.
Honeybees
The practice of beekeeping in Arizona differs somewhat from how it is done in other areas of the US. Many Arizona beekeepers work with Africanized “killer” honeybees. For the most part, these “killer” bees do not harm humans, but they are more aggressive than other bees if disturbed. These honeybees are focused on pollinating the fruits, vegetables, and nuts that we eat, and the flowers we pick. Honeybees in Arizona are folivores, which means they mainly live off the products of flowers. They do not eat or kill any other species, and as such are often seen as insects that should be protected, even in swarms, for the benefit of the environment.
Of course, a swarm of bees is a scary sight, so if you find one has moved into your backyard, give AZEX a call, in most cases we will be able to capture and relocate the swarm.
Tarantulas
Tarantulas are the largest type of spider, and Arizona is home to some 30 species. Not good news for arachnophobes! Tarantulas are seen by many as dangerous and frightening due to their size and fangs, but, despite their appearance, they will not bite humans unless they feel threatened. It may help to know there are no existing records of critical harm to humans as a result of Arizona tarantula bites!
The Desert Tarantula is the most common in the Tucson area and is most active during the monsoon season. They spend most of their lives on the ground, so if you notice holes the size of a quarter in your backyard, you probably have tarantulas living there. If you can see some silk over the hole, it’s active. This may initially cause alarm, but tarantulas in Arizona are almost entirely harmless to humans and should not be exterminated.
Remember, while no one wants an unexpected run-in with a tarantula, they’re likely helping you stay pest-free, so try to leave them be if you can.
Of course, there some insects are liable to swarm and cause significant damage to buildings, such as termites and carpenter ants. These sorts of insects do need to be exterminated as soon as possible, and when it comes to insects that can cause structural damage, it’s best to get the professionals in as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing any issues with insects and wish to have your home or workplace inspected, we at AZEX Pest Solutions are here to help. We offer treatments for buildings with rodents, pigeons, termites, ants and many more other issues. Trust the professionals and let us do all the work! For more information, contact us here or call us today at 877-445-2847.
