Yellowjacket Wasp vs. Bee: Identification Guide

Take back your outdoor spaces with these tips from Restoration Pest Management, your local experts for tick and mosquito extermination in Columbus.

If you’ve started noticing small, round holes mysteriously appearing in your wood siding, carpenter bees could be to blame. These large, solitary insects may look similar to bumblebees , but their behavior and nesting habits can lead to serious problems for homeowners—especially in the spring and summer months. Unlike termites , carpenter bees don’t consume wood, but they do tunnel into it with precision and purpose, creating nests for their young. Over time, these tunnels can weaken wooden structures and leave your home vulnerable to more extensive damage. Here are tips for identifying carpenter bee infestation from Restoration Pest Management , your destination for carpenter bee removal in Columbus. What Do Carpenter Bee Holes Look Like? Carpenter bee entry holes are typically about the size of a dime—around ½ inch in diameter—and impressively round. They’re often located in protected areas like under eaves, around trim, and along wood siding, decks, and fences. You may also notice a small pile of a sawdust-like substance (called frass) underneath the hole, along with faint buzzing sounds coming from inside the wood. These signs strongly suggest carpenter bee activity. In many cases, the hole is just the beginning. After drilling a short, straight entry tunnel, the bee will make a right-angle turn to create a longer gallery running parallel to the wood grain. This tunnel becomes a nursery for laying eggs and can stretch for several inches—or even more if reused year after year. Why Do Carpenter Bees Choose Wood Siding? Carpenter bees are attracted to softwoods like pine, cedar, redwood, and cypress—especially when the wood is untreated, unpainted, or weather-worn. If your siding is older or has never been properly sealed or painted, it becomes a prime target for these buzzing invaders. They seek out dry, bare wood that offers easy access for boring tunnels and provides a secure environment for their young. Once carpenter bees establish a nest in your siding, they tend to return to the same area year after year—often expanding their tunnel networks or creating new ones nearby. This repeated activity significantly increases the risk of structural damage, staining, and other long-term issues. Are Carpenter Bees Dangerous? Carpenter bees aren’t aggressive like some stinging insects. Males can’t sting at all, and females typically only sting if they’re directly threatened. However, the true danger lies in the damage they cause to wooden structures. Over time, repeated tunneling weakens the boards and trim on your home, leading to: Soft or splintering wood Visible damage and unsightly holes Fungal growth or moisture buildup from compromised siding Increased risk of woodpecker activity, as they feed on the larvae inside the tunnels Woodpeckers can cause even more extensive damage than the bees themselves, pecking into siding in an attempt to reach the developing bee larvae inside. How to Tell If Carpenter Bees Are the Problem If you're trying to determine whether carpenter bees are causing the damage, keep an eye out for: Smooth, round holes on siding, trim, or eaves Small piles of sawdust or wood shavings beneath the holes Yellowish or brownish staining near entry points A few large bees hovering around or flying in and out of holes Audible buzzing from within wooden structures Carpenter bee infestations can sometimes go unnoticed until the damage becomes more severe. That’s why early detection is so important. If you suspect carpenter bees may be responsible for the holes in your siding, don't wait to get answers. Contact Restoration Pest Management for a professional inspection. Our experienced team can identify the source of the problem, assess the extent of any damage, and recommend the best course of action to protect your home. How to Stop Carpenter Bees While DIY efforts may seem appealing, the most effective and lasting way to deal with carpenter bees is through professional intervention. At Restoration Pest Management, we specialize in safely eliminating carpenter bee infestations and protecting your home from future issues. Our team uses targeted, environmentally conscious treatments that address the root of the problem—removing bees, sealing entry points, and advising on preventive strategies to keep them from coming back. Don't risk further damage to your home by ignoring the signs or attempting temporary fixes. Carpenter bees are persistent, and without proper removal and exclusion techniques, they often return year after year. It is important to keep up with consistent treatment throughout the season and year over year to break the bees’ lifecycles. Likewise, applying a good repellency chemical early in the season is the best way to deter activity. Don't Let Small Holes Turn Into Big Problems What may look like a few tiny holes today could turn into extensive (and expensive) damage. Carpenter bees are persistent and often return season after season, gradually enlarging their tunnel systems and reducing the strength of your siding or other wood features. If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to act quickly. The team at Restoration Pest Management is here to help. We offer thorough inspections, effective removal, and long-term solutions to protect your home from carpenter bees and other wood-destroying pests. If you’re noticing holes in your siding or wood trim, don’t wait. Contact Restoration Pest Management today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward reclaiming your home from unwanted pests.

If you've noticed small, winged insects in or around your home or business, it's natural to feel alarmed. Your mind may immediately jump to pests like ants or termites , but determining which one you're dealing with can be a challenge. While both species can look remarkably similar—especially during their swarming phase—their behavior, appearance, and potential for damage vary greatly. Termites can be incredibly destructive to wooden structures, while ants are often more of a nuisance. This guide will help you learn how to tell the difference between ants and termites and what to do next if you suspect an infestation. Still not sure what to do? Contact Restoration Pest Management , your go-to for ant and termite extermination in Columbus. Appearance: Key Physical Differences Although ants and termites both fall under the category of small insects with six legs and antennae, there are a few visual clues that can help you quickly distinguish between the two: Waist Shape : One of the most noticeable features is the waist. Ants have a defined, pinched waist that gives their bodies an hourglass appearance. Termites, by contrast, have a more uniform, straight-sided body with no distinct narrowing at the waist. Antennae : Ants have elbowed or bent antennae, which are quite different from termites’ straight, beaded antennae. Wings : If you spot winged insects, take note of the wing shape and size. Ants’ front wings are longer than their back wings, and their wings are typically more angular. Termites, however, have two pairs of wings that are equal in size and extend well beyond the length of their bodies, giving them a more delicate, symmetrical appearance. Behavior and Habitat: Where and How They Live Understanding the habits and preferences of ants and termites can offer more clues: Ants are opportunistic foragers and are frequently seen trailing along surfaces as they search for food sources inside your home . They tend to nest in walls, under floors, in cracks, or in damp, decaying wood. Ants are especially active during warmer months and are usually more visible than termites. Termites , on the other hand, are secretive by nature. They thrive in dark, moist environments and prefer to stay hidden from view. Termites build colonies underground or inside the very structures they infest. A common external sign of termite presence is the appearance of mud tubes running along foundation walls or other wooden structures. These tubes provide moisture and protection as termites travel between their colony and food sources. Damage Signs: What to Watch For Damage caused by these pests can also help in identifying which insect is to blame: Termites feed directly on cellulose found in wood, paper, and other organic materials. Over time, their feeding can result in significant structural damage. Symptoms of a termite problem include hollow-sounding wood, blistering paint, sagging floors, stuck windows or doors, and small piles of wings left behind after a swarm. Ants , while usually less destructive, can still pose problems—especially carpenter ants. These ants don’t eat wood but will tunnel through it to create their nests. This can cause weakening of structural elements if left untreated, although it typically progresses more slowly than termite damage. Seasonal Activity and Swarming Both ants and termites experience a swarming season when young reproductive insects leave their nests to form new colonies. This is often when homeowners first notice an issue. Termite swarms usually occur after periods of rainfall, especially in the spring and early summer, when conditions are humid. Ant swarms are also common in the spring but tend to occur on warmer, sunny days, sometimes after rain. Because both pests swarm around the same time of year and in similar weather conditions, misidentification is common. Call a Professional for Peace of Mind Even with this information, it can still be difficult to confidently identify whether you're dealing with ants or termites—especially if you're seeing winged swarmers or only subtle signs of damage. That's where the experts come in. At Restoration Pest Management, our trained professionals are equipped with the experience and tools to determine the exact nature of your pest problem. Whether it's a minor ant infestation or a potentially serious termite issue, we’ll provide an effective, customized solution to protect your property and restore your peace of mind. Don't wait until the damage becomes worse. Contact Restoration Pest Management today for a thorough inspection, expert identification, and targeted treatment options that work.

If you suspect mice in your home in Columbus, one of the first signs to look for is their droppings. Mouse poop is a key indicator of an infestation and can help you determine where these unwelcome guests are hiding. Understanding what mouse droppings look like, where to find them, and how to properly clean them up is crucial in keeping your home safe and pest-free. Mice are notorious for sneaking into homes, particularly during colder months, and their droppings are one of the most obvious clues to their presence. Identifying Mouse Droppings Mouse poop is small, dark, and pellet-shaped. A typical mouse dropping measures between 1/8 and 1/4 inch in length and has a spindle-like or rod-shaped appearance with pointed ends. The color of fresh droppings is usually dark brown to black, but as they age, they become lighter and may take on a grayish hue. Fresh droppings tend to be soft and moist, while older ones harden and become crumbly over time. If you find an accumulation of fresh mouse droppings, this indicates recent or ongoing rodent activity in your home. Identifying the freshness of droppings can help determine whether the infestation is still active or if the mice may have moved on. Where to Find Mouse Droppings in Your Home Since mice are nocturnal creatures that tend to stay hidden, you may not always see them, but their droppings provide clear evidence of their presence. Mouse poop is often found in areas where rodents search for food, build nests, and travel throughout the home . In kitchens and pantries, droppings are commonly discovered near food sources, inside cabinets, behind appliances, and along baseboards. Mice are drawn to dark, cluttered areas, making basements and garages prime locations to find droppings, particularly near storage boxes and along walls where they tend to run. In attics and crawl spaces, droppings may be found near insulation, around nesting materials, and near entry points where the mice have chewed their way in. Utility rooms, including spaces near water heaters, furnaces, and pipes, can also harbor mouse droppings, as these areas often provide warmth and shelter. The more widespread the droppings, the more severe the infestation is likely to be. Mouse Droppings vs. Other Pests Not all droppings found in your home belong to mice, so it's important to distinguish them from other common pest droppings. Rat droppings are significantly larger, measuring around 1/2 inch, and have blunt ends rather than the pointed shape of mouse droppings. Cockroach droppings, on the other hand, are much smaller and resemble coffee grounds or black pepper specks. Because they can often be mistaken for dirt or dust, careful inspection is necessary to identify them correctly. Squirrel droppings, another potential source of confusion, are rounder, larger than mouse droppings, and often found outdoors or in attics. Being able to differentiate between various types of pest droppings can help determine the best course of action for pest control. Health Risks of Mouse Poop Mouse droppings are more than just an unpleasant sight; they can pose health risks to you and your family in severe infestations. Mice are known carriers of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be transmitted through their feces. Most homes in Ohio at one point or another have had mice inside whether in living areas or attics. Being aware and taking precaution if mice are in your home is important to not allow an infestation to become severe. Severe infestations can lead to hantavirus, which is a respiratory illness contracted by inhaling infected rodent fecal matter. Although rodent fecal poses a threat of hantavirus, the likelihood of contracting this is low as, according to the CDC there are only about 35 cases reported every year in the U.S. In addition, mouse droppings can carry salmonella, which can contaminate food surfaces. Ensuring that countertops and areas where food and tableware are stored are cleaned and sanitized after rodent fecal is found is important to reducing the spread of rodent borne illness to humans. Given these risks, proper handling and disposal of mouse droppings are critical to maintaining a healthy home environment. What to Do If You Find Mouse Droppings Discovering mouse droppings in your Columbus home requires immediate attention to prevent the infestation from proliferating. Before cleaning up droppings, always wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask to avoid direct exposure. It is recommended to ventilate the area by opening windows to improve airflow and reduce airborne particles. To properly clean up mouse droppings, spray them with a disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water before wiping them up. Never sweep or vacuum droppings, as this can cause harmful particles to become airborne. After cleaning, dispose of the droppings in a sealed plastic bag and immediately wash your hands thoroughly. Finding mouse droppings in your home is a sign of an active infestation requiring professional pest control services may to fully resolve the issue. Get Expert Mouse Control in Columbus, Ohio Finding mouse droppings in your home is a strong indication that rodents have taken up residence in your space. While DIY cleanup can help address the immediate problem, a professional pest control service can provide a comprehensive solution to eliminate the infestation and prevent future occurrences. At Restoration Pest Management, we specialize in effective rodent control in Columbus, Ohio. Our expert team will conduct a thorough inspection and implement customized treatment plans to eliminate mice from your home. Don't let a mouse problem compromise your family's health and safety. Contact us today for a free inspection and let us help you take back control of your home with reliable and effective pest management solutions.

Termite infestations may not be something most people think about until they see swarming termites in their homes during late spring or early summer. Termite swarming can happen in both homes and businesses, and even though no one wants them around, these swarms can provide useful information. Termites are attracted to moist wood Termites are a very beneficial part of the eco system in that they decompose dead plant matter, replenish soil nutrients and support plant growth. This is great for the environment and the cycle of life but not so good when they get into your home. Termites are attracted to your home when it presents conducive conditions in which termites thrive in, moist wood. Termite infestations are often found when homeowners are replacing their windows or doors. Over time, sealants and caulk break down allowing moisture to get into the framing creating a termite friendly environment. Swarms are signals of a larger infestation A termite swarm signals the presence of a termite colony in a home. Since termites typically work unseen, swarming is a clear and noticeable sign of an infestation, unlike other less obvious signs that might go unnoticed for years, leading to increased damage. Termite swarmers, known as alates, are the reproductive members of a colony. Unlike worker termites that cause damage, alates’ purpose is to reproduce and create new colonies. They do not bite, sting, or eat wood. Before a swarm, alates prepare a launch site, then they fly briefly to mate and find a new home, often resulting in low survival rates since many die quickly from dehydration, especially if they swarm indoors with no access to soil. Professional chemicals are essential for colony elimination When faced with a swarm, many consumers instinctively reach for an aerosol spray, which can complicate cleanup and give a false sense of security. Most over the counter pest control products are repellent based products which do kill on contact but then pushes the bulk of the colony away from the area sprayed into untreated areas of the home further spreading the infestation. Allowing a Pest Management Professional to treat with products designed for long term eradication of a termite colony will significantly decrease cost of eliminating the colony and protect your home long term. The goal is not to just kill the insects that are seen, but also the whole colony that are in unseen areas of the home and ground. What can I do if I see termite swarm activity? Calling a Pest Management Professional like Restoration Pest Management for an inspection as soon as possible will help in identifying the insects and providing proper treatment. Both Termites and Carpenter Ants swarm in a very similar way, however treatment for each can be quite different. If you start seeing flying insects in Spring-Summer it is important to get a clear close up picture of one of the insects before the swarm moves on. Do not spray swarmers with any over-the-counter type pesticides. Termites and Ants both need to be treated with non-repellent chemicals that allow the insects to track the chemical throughout the colony wiping out the entirety of the colony, not only killing the insects that are seen on the surface. Vacuuming up swarmers and not allowing them to mate and start a new colony is helpful in not enabling the colony to proliferate. However, this does not solve the issue of the current colony that can be hiding unseen in the walls of your home. Looking for the best way to get rid of termites in Columbus, Ohio? Restoration Pest Management offers customized treatments to keep termites out of your home for good. Our experienced team uses reliable and efficient methods to control termite colonies around your home. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your home from termites.

Ants are some of the most persistent and common household pests , often appearing in kitchens, bathrooms, and even bedrooms. If you've ever wondered why ants suddenly invade your home, the answer lies in their search for food, water, and shelter. Understanding the reasons behind ant infestations can help you take the right steps to prevent them. If you're dealing with an ant infestation in Columbus, Ohio, Restoration Pest Management offers expert pest control solutions to keep your home ant-free year-round. Food Sources Attract Ants Ants are constantly foraging for food, and even the tiniest crumbs or spills can attract them. Sugary foods, proteins, and greasy residues are particularly appealing to these pests. If food is left out, trash is not sealed properly, or countertops are not wiped down regularly, ants will detect these food sources and create trails leading straight to them. Additionally, pet food left in bowls or uncleaned spills from beverages can further entice ants into your home. They have an incredible sense of smell and can detect food sources from a significant distance, making it crucial to maintain cleanliness in your kitchen and dining areas. Water is Essential for Ant Survival Just like any living creature, ants need water to survive. Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, or condensation around sinks and tubs can provide the moisture they need. This is why you may often find ants in bathrooms or kitchens, especially during dry weather when natural water sources outside are scarce. Some ant species, like Odorous House ants and Carpenter Ants are particularly drawn to moisture-rich environments and can establish colonies near water sources. Even small amounts of standing water, such as in potted plant trays or pet water dishes, can attract ants. By eliminating excess moisture, you can reduce the chances of infestation. Seeking Shelter from the Elements Ants will often enter homes seeking refuge from extreme weather conditions. Heavy rain can flood their nests, while hot and dry conditions can drive them indoors in search of a more stable environment. Cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and unsealed utility openings provide easy entry points for ants looking for shelter. In colder months, some ants may even seek warmth inside walls or under flooring. Understanding seasonal patterns can help homeowners anticipate and prevent infestations before they occur. Scent Trails Lead the Way Once an ant discovers a reliable food or water source in your home, it will leave behind a pheromone trail that signals other ants to follow. This is why a few ants can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation. The more accessible the resources, the more ants will continue to return. These pheromone trails are highly effective and can persist even after the initial food source is removed. It is important to seek professional ant treatment to ensure proper non repellent chemicals are used to allow the ants to go through the chemical and track it back to the colony. Nearby Colonies and Nesting Sites If you notice a frequent ant presence in your home, there may be a colony nesting nearby. Some species, like Carpenter Ants, may even establish nests inside your walls, wooden furniture, or insulation. These ants can cause structural damage over time, making early detection and intervention crucial. Outdoor colonies in soil, under logs, or in mulch can also contribute to indoor infestations, as worker ants search for resources. Regularly inspecting both indoor and outdoor spaces can help you identify potential problem areas before they escalate. How to Prevent Ants from Invading Your Home To keep ants from making themselves at home, consider these preventive measures : ● Keep food sealed and stored properly – Avoid leaving food out and wipe up crumbs and spills immediately. Store dry goods in airtight containers and regularly clean pantry shelves. ● Clean up regularly – Maintain a clean kitchen and take out the trash frequently. Sweep floors and vacuum carpets to remove food particles that might attract ants. ● Eliminate water sources – Fix leaks, remove standing water, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce moisture. Pay special attention to areas under sinks, around appliances, and near air conditioning units. ● Seal entry points – Use caulk to seal cracks, install door sweeps, and repair damaged screens. Checking window frames, utility pipe entry points, and foundation gaps can further help in preventing access. ● Address outdoor nests – Regularly inspect your home’s perimeter and remove potential nesting sites. Keep shrubs and plants trimmed away from the house, as branches can serve as bridges for ants to enter. Looking for the best way to get rid of ants in Columbus, Ohio? Restoration Pest Management offers customized treatments to keep ants out of your home for good. Our experienced team uses reliable and efficient methods to keep your home ant-free year-round. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward a pest-free home!

Rodent infestations can cause significant problems if left unchecked, from structural damage to health risks for occupants. Recognizing the early signs of a rodent problem is crucial for control and prevention of these unwanted pests. Read on to learn about some of the common indicators that rodents may have invaded your home or business. And if you’re a property owner in need of rodent extermination in Central Ohio, contact Restoration Pest Management for fast and effective service. Droppings Mouse poop is often the most obvious sign of an infestation. These small, pellet-like feces are typically found near food sources, along baseboards, or in hidden areas like cabinets and pantries. Mouse droppings are smaller, while rat droppings are larger and more oblong. Checking for droppings regularly in high-risk areas can help identify an infestation early before it becomes severe. Gnaw Marks Rodents have strong teeth that never stop growing, so they constantly gnaw on materials to keep them in check. Look for chew marks on furniture, wiring, packaging, or structural elements like wood and drywall. Fresh gnaw marks are lighter in color and become darker over time. Electrical wiring damage caused by rodents can lead to fire hazards, making it essential to address this issue quickly. Homeowners in Fredericktown can protect their properties by recognizing the early signs of a rodent infestation before it escalates. Noises in Walls or Ceilings If you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds, especially at night, it’s a strong indication that rodents are present. They are most active after dark and often nest within walls, ceilings, or attics. Pay attention to repetitive noises coming from the same areas, as this may indicate a nesting site or frequently used pathways. Nests and Shredded Materials Rodents build nests using soft materials like shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. Check hidden areas such as behind appliances, in attics, or under furniture for nests or scattered nesting materials. The presence of nesting sites often signals an established infestation and may also include droppings or food remnants nearby. Grease Marks and Tracks Rodents tend to travel along the same paths, leaving behind greasy smudges or marks from their fur. You may also notice small footprints or tail marks in dusty areas. These tracks can be especially visible in basements, garages, or other less frequently cleaned areas, providing clues to their movement patterns. If you're experiencing rodent problems in Galion, Restoration Pest Management offers reliable solutions tailored to your needs. Unpleasant Odors A strong, musky smell is often associated with rodent infestations. This odor comes from their urine and can become more pronounced as the infestation worsens. In enclosed spaces like cupboards or crawl spaces, the smell can linger and signal an urgent need for intervention. Business owners in Centerburg can prevent costly damage by addressing rodent issues as soon as they're detected. Damage to Food or Packaging

Mice and other rodents are a frustrating and persistent problem for homeowners, especially during cooler months when pests seek the warmth and safety of indoor spaces. These small intruders can cause damage to your property, contaminate food, and spread disease. Fortunately, with the right preventative measures, you can get rid of mice and keep them away. Try these proven tips for eliminating mice from your home. Seal Entry Points One of the most effective ways to prevent mice is by sealing potential entry points around your home. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime, so thorough inspection is key. Our first priority is to look for cracks in the foundation, gaps around utility pipes, and openings near windows and vents. Once identified, seal these areas by packing them with a durable material like steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth. Older homes, which are more likely to have wear-and-tear issues, often require extra attention to detail. Rodents Using Your Landscaping Mice are resourceful and often use outdoor elements as stepping-stones into your home. Keep bushes and vegetation trimmed back from your home’s foundation to reduce potential hiding spots. Firewood, debris, and compost piles should be stored at least 20 feet from your house. Outdoor maintenance is especially critical for homes near wooded or rural areas where mice thrive. Dealing with a mouse infestation in Cardington, Centerburg , or Chesterville? Contact Restoration Pest Management today for a fast and effective solution to your rodent problem in the Mt. Gilead area. Maintain a Clean Environment A clean and organized home is less attractive to mice. Store all food in airtight containers to eliminate easy access, and clean up crumbs and spills immediately, particularly in the kitchen and pantry. Trash should be stored in tightly sealed bins, and areas like basements, garages, and attics should be decluttered regularly to remove potential nesting spots. This is particularly important if you have outdoor storage spaces or sheds where mice are known to hide. Set Traps as a Deterrent Traps are a practical tool for preventing and addressing minor mouse activity. Position snap traps, glue traps, or live traps in areas where you suspect activity, such as basements, crawl spaces, or along baseboards. Be strategic about trap placement, targeting areas where mice are likely to travel—just be sure to keep them out of reach of children and pets. Consider Professional Pest Management Professional pest control services are the best solution (and sometimes the only solution) for persistent infestations. Restoration Pest Management provides comprehensive solutions to help protect your home from rodents. For homeowners seeking an exterminator in the Mt. Gilead and Northern Columbus area, we ensure a safe and effective resolution that protects both your family and property. Protect Your Home Year-Round Preventing mice from entering your home requires vigilance and effort, but the benefits far outweigh the risks of dealing with an infestation. By sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, addressing outdoor hazards, and using traps strategically, you can create a mouse-proof environment. For long-term peace of mind, Restoration Pest Management is here to help with customized pest control solutions that meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and ensure your home stays rodent-free!

Rodent treatment Columbus Ohio is important as the winter season coming. It is important to make sure that your home is secured from little intruders. Rodents are looking for a place to make their home, that is warm and out of the winter elements. Getting your home ready for winter while considering preventive rodent treatment Columbus Ohio before winter can help keep out those unwanted pests and rodents.