San Benito County Pest Control — Agricultural Roots, Local Expertise

Subterranean termite swarms in Hollister in February–April are among the most dramatic in our service territory — colonies established in crawl spaces send thousands of alates simultaneously when conditions are right, and the sight of swarmers emerging from a structure is a common spring occurrence. Pocket gophers are pervasive in irrigated residential landscaping. Norway rats from agricultural fields and the San Benito River corridor are a year-round concern. Argentine ants invade structures aggressively in summer heat.

Argentine ants are the most common pest complaint in San Juan Bautista's residential areas. Termites — both subterranean and drywood — are active in wood-frame structures throughout the community. Historic adobe buildings face different pest pressures: earthen floors and thick walls create cool, humid conditions that attract subterranean termites where wood framing is embedded in adobe. Norway rats from agricultural fields adjacent to the city are a consistent concern.

Norway rats from the Elkhorn Slough margins are the dominant pest concern for slough-adjacent properties. Argentine ants are consistent year-round given the moisture. Pocket gophers are active in horse pastures and large irrigated lots throughout the community. Subterranean termites are more active than in drier inland San Benito communities due to the slough's moisture influence.

Norway rats from the San Benito River and ranch land are the primary concern. Gophers are active throughout the community's irrigated lots. Subterranean termites swarm in spring. Black widows are endemic in ranch outbuildings and equipment storage.