Lovebugs
If you have ever drove down the highways in the southern part of the United States, you may encounter a nuisance in the form of splattered insects all over your windshield, hood, and grill. The insect nuisance? A joined pair of bugs, less than an inch long. They are known in the south as lovebugs, or honeymoon flies. Both names are fitting—especially because of their unique mating flights.
Lovebugs are categorized in a large group of insects known as March Flies. There are over 200 species of March Flies worldwide, but only two are found in the States. Of the two, only one species, the lovebug, is an extreme problem for motorists. The adult lovebugs do not sting or bite, or cause diseases, they do clog up automobile engines causing them to overheat. They also can reduce visibility on windshields and can damage paint finishes because of their acidic body fluids.
Major flights for lovebugs occur twice a year, around May and then September. It lasts about 4 weeks at a time. Mating starts as soon as the lovebug becomes an adult. It is estimated that six or more males are attracted to the same female, swarming around her in flight during the daytime. When the male unites with the female, they remain connected for many hours—often still in flight. It take the female rubbing him off or releasing him. During the mating flight, the male transfers nutrients to the female to help her produce healthy eggs. After the mating is complete, the female lays eggs and dies soon after. Pest Control in Mesa AZ
The average life span of a female lovebug is only about 2-3 days, but can extend another day or so if she has the energy to make another mating flight. Every female lovebug will lay around 150 to 600 eggs beneath decaying plant material. When the eggs hatch, the larvae live close to the surface. Rotting grass clippings along the highways are a perfect habitat for lovebug larvae.
There is no government or community effort to control the lovebugs with insecticides. There are many predators that feed on lovebugs like birds, small animals and even other insects. Pest Control in Mesa AZ
Contact Lady Bug Pest Control Specialists. We offer Free Home Inspection for Termites, Eco-Friendly Pest Control, Home Seal Service, Bed Bug Eco-Heat, and Rodent Control. We perform Complete Home Inspections. Lady Bug also will do a free termite inspection if you already are under contract with another company and take over your existing termite warranty policy. Please feel free to contact Lady Bug Pest Control Specialists to answer any of your pest control questions or for a FREE Inspection. 480-833-1111.
