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Pestology Blog

Pest Control Science, Explained

NPMA’s Pestology blog was created with the pest management professional in mind. The pest control industry is driven by science, but often the newest scientific discoveries are not easily digestible. With that in mind, NPMA's entomologists set off to read all of the latest pest management scientific articles and break them down for you!

Meet the Entomologists: Mike Bentley, Laura Rosenwald, and Ellie Sanders

We are three board-certified entomologists who work at the National Pest Management Association with a passion for urban entomology and a healthy dose of humor. Mike holds a PhD from the University of Florida, studying ants. Ellie has a master's from Virginia Tech with a background in ornamental pest management, and Laura has a master's from the University of Kentucky specializing in spiders.

These posts often accompany episodes of our podcast, NPMA BugBytes. If you would like to hear more live discussions about the articles with our hosts and guest stars, take a listen!

Listen to the BugBytes Podcast

Read the Latest Blog Posts

Aug 1, 2024 Ants, Termites, Mosquitoes

Crafty Ants, Tackling Termites, and Mosquito Control

In the August 2024, episode of NPMA BugBytes, the team discusses new research on ways fire ants can avoid exposure to pesticide treatments, methods of protecting historic structures from subterranean termites, and carnivorous organisms that eat mosquito larvae. Read more about the research here.

Jul 1, 2024 Stored Product Pests, Flies, Bed Bugs

Gamma Rays, Pan Allergens, and Scuttle Flies

In the August 2024, episode of NPMA BugBytes, the team discusses In this episode we cover gamma rays, pan allergens, and scuttle flies. Read more about the research here.

Jun 1, 2024 Spiders, Ants, Seasonal Pests

Brown Widow Spiders, Zombie Ants, and Spotted Lanternflies

In the June 2024 episode of NPMA BugBytes, the team discusses new research on brown widow spiders, zombie ants, and how artificial intelligence could be used to control spotted lantern flies. Read more about the research here.

May 1, 2024 Ants, Seasonal Pests, Cockroaches

Cyborg Cockroaches, Winter Survival Strategies, and Ant Bait Abandonment

In the May 2024 episode of NPMA BugBytes, the team discusses cyborg cockroaches, how arthropods survive the winter cold, and bait abandonment by ants. Read more about the research here.

Apr 24, 2024 Seasonal Pests

What PMP's Need to Know About the 2024 Cicadas

2024 marks a significant year for periodical cicadas, with both 13-year (Brood XIX) and 17-year (Brood XIII) broods emerging across Illinois and the Midwest. While they may cause temporary annoyance, cicadas are harmless to trees and humans, providing an essential food source for predators and presenting a unique opportunity for pest control professionals to engage with customers.

Apr 1, 2024 Ticks

Ticks, Insecticides, and Urban Entomology Review

In the April 2024 episode of NPMA BugBytes, we cover a new paper on tick research, microwaving insecticides, and review the history and trajectory of Urban Entomology. Read more about the research here.