South Dakota PCO Wins PCT’s 20th Annual Photo Contest

 

Holloway said he “just happened to come across” the praying mantis when he was servicing a rodent bait station behind a restaurant. That the insect was able to still on the cone with his truck (logo showing) in the backyard “made it look like the photographer had set up a photoshoot” said one of PCT’s judges.

 

Another of the judges noted, “the photo was framed nicely with the insect atop the cone and the somewhat blurred truck logo.”

 

Holloway said he encounters a fair amount of praying mantises in his service area (Rapid City, S.D. and surrounding areas) and he tries not to harm them as they are beneficial insects.

 

Like many PCOs, Holloway is not a professional photographer, but he keeps his iPhone handy and has been able to capture some nice photos, many of which he will post on Facebook.

 

He’s owned Karma Pest Solutions the last five years. Prior to that he ran a commercial route for a pest control company and his previous occupations include working for Lowe’s. Holloway said Karma Pest Solutions has a nice mix of commercial and residential business and he does a good bit of wildlife control work as well. 

 

“The best part of the job is that you get to be a hero,” he said. “I love being able to help a customer who is calling in a panic over bats in the house, or a snake in the basement, or just has a phobia of bugs.”

 

Holloway wins $500 from PCT. Look for a slideshow of the 10 finalist photos from this year’s contest.