American Pest: In The News
Experts from American Pest have been mentioned in various articles over the years. See below to see some of the top mentions!
Joro spider season is over. But the critters will be back in 2026.
Joro spiders, an invasive species from Asia, have made their way to the DMV. Dr. Kathy Heinsohn, BCE, an American Pest entomologist. shares information on how they spread, their impact on humans and the environment, what to do if you spot one, and more.
Why Spiders are Allies in Pest Prevention
American Pest entomologist Dr. Kathy Heinsohn, BCE, breaks down common spider misconceptions, highlights the spiders to be aware of, and outlines why spiders provide more benefits than drawbacks.
Jennifer McIntosh receives the PWIPM Professional Empowerment Grant at PestWorld 2025.
Jennifer McIntosh, Assistant Branch Manager at American Pest, received the PWIPM Professional Empowerment Grant at National Pest Management Association’s PestWorld 2025.
Spotted lanternflies are threatening your wine
Dr. Kathy Heinsohn, an entomologist at American Pest, explains the current rise in spotted lanternflies and what can be done to reduce them.
Invasive Asian Needle Ants
American Pest entomologist, Dr. Kathy Heinsohn, explains what Asian Needle ants are, how they’re a threat to the environment and human health, and what you should do if you spot them.
Hantivirus Deaths and the Importance of Rodent Control
“This region serves as the natural habitat of the deer mouse, which carries the virus,” Heinsohn said. “People engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and camping are more likely to encounter the deer mouse and its droppings or urine, increasing the chances of exposure.”
American Pest marks 100-year milestone in 2025
“At American Pest, we believe that servicing the places where we live and giving back to the community is not only our responsibility but also a privilege,” Poland shared. “For the past 100 years, our team has not only provided pest control services to Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C., residents and businesses, but we’ve also developed a strong commitment to supporting our neighbors and local non-profit organizations in efforts to give back to the communities where employees live and work.”
Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home?
“Fruit flies are attracted to bananas because of their strong smell, along with the yeasts and bacteria that can grow on ripe fruit. Fruit flies commonly lay eggs on bananas,” he explains. “To keep fruit flies out of your kitchen, you should try to eliminate the factors that attract them. Make sure to wash bananas immediately to get rid of the fruit fly eggs after bringing it home,” as the fruit flies may have already laid eggs while the fruit was transported to or stored in your supermarket.
Does Scattering Soap in the Yard Work to Repel Bugs and Animals?
This Family Handyman article reviews the DIY efforts of scattering soap around yards in attempt to repel bugs.
“Soaps, in general, can work as repellents,” says Dr. Daniel Kiefer, PhD, an entomologist and the technical director at American Pest. “The scent of soap together with other sources of human smell, like hair clippings, will deter deer since they associate the smell with humans.”
Scattering soap isn’t a long-term solution, however. “Their usage as repellents is limited since they will be washed away with the next rain and the high humidity during the summer months,” he adds.
Flying Joro Spiders Heading for the East Coast — Everything to Know
Daniel Kiefer, PhD Entomologist and Technical Manager at American Pest says, “Spiders get a bad reputation, but they are actually beneficial to controlling other insects in your yard. Joro spider venom is reserved for their prey, which humans and pets are most certainly not.”
How to Get Rid of Pantry Moths Before They Take Over Your Kitchen
These winged bugs love to lay their eggs in pantry items such as flour, grains, cereals, dried fruits, and pasta to give the newly hatched larvae a ready-to-eat food source, Daniel Kiefer, Ph.D, an entomologist and the technical director at American Pest in Washington, D.C., explains..
Mosquitoes already? What you can do to limit breeding, keep them away
The best way to repel mosquitoes is removing breeding sites near you. Here are some common sources according to American Pest.
President’s Message from Kevin Poland
MSPCA President Kevin Poland encourages unity and engagement this spring, highlighting recent advocacy efforts and the need to adapt to industry changes like AI and staffing.
What to do if you spot a Spotted Lanternfly
American Pest entomologist, Dr. Kathy Heinsohn, shares tips on what to do when you spot a Spotted Lanternfly in her interview with Great Day Washington on WUSA9.
The 5 Best Mosquito Traps
Better Homes & Gardens tested various mosquito traps, specifically looking for effectiveness, value, and practicality. Here are their top 5.
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“I called American Pest because of an ant problem but they wound up treating so much more. Great conversation with the main office and the tech who came to the house was incredibly punctual, courteous, extremely knowledgeable/excited about his work. Happy to say I no longer share the house with ants or any other insects!”
Abraham was very down to earth and knowledgeable. First day of service I had a bee problem in which he acted quickly to get under control then came back 2 days later to make sure they were gone.
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