A Warm and Sunny Welcome to Early Spring Can Also Be an Invitation for Some Unwelcomed Guests (Pests!) In Your Home

Although it’s not officially spring yet, temperatures this past week have reached close to 70 degrees – and what a treat!  The birds are chirping, there are buds on the trees, the ground has thawed, plants are growing… and all of those irritating pests are now coming out of hibernation.  With growing plants as food sources, combined with the moisture caused by spring rainfall, the environment is now ready for flying insects, ants, termites, and other insects to return and thrive.

Experts say that this unseasonably warm weather will bring with it an increase in pests. According to a Pest Control Technology (PCT) report,  “Warmer weather and changes in the daylight length trigger a variety of pests, such as boxelder bugs, lady beetles, cluster flies, ticks, fleas, swallow bugs, wasps, ground-nesting bees and mosquitoes, to move in or out of a structure and become a nuisance for customers.”

The following is our list of the 6 Most Common Early Spring Pests to watch out for:

Ants:

With the temperatures rising and rainfall increasing in the spring, ant colonies seek refuge indoors. These industrious insects are known for marching into homes for food and shelter. Seal entry points and keep food tightly sealed to deter ant invasions.

Asian Lady Beetles:

 If you are seeing them in your home in the spring it means they were over-wintering in the home and are now trying to get out. Asian lady beetles usually get inside during the fall months, and their attraction to light is moving them toward your windows and doors.

Mosquitoes:

As people begin to spend more time outdoors, mosquitoes may follow them inside through open doors and windows. In addition, the spring temperatures and stagnant water (a common result of spring rain) provide an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Check gutters frequently, especially after heavy rainfall, to ensure that there is no pooling water or debris stuck that can create a space for mosquitoes to breed.

Termites:

Termites often come inside homes during the spring as part of their reproductive cycle. The warmer temperatures and increased humidity of spring provide ideal conditions for these swarms to occur. Regularly inspect and treat wooden structures around your home, such as windowsills and door frames, to prevent termite infestations.

Rodents:

Spring is a prime time for pests to breed and multiply – including rodents – leading to an increased population in your home. To avoid a rodent family in your home, seal gaps and cracks in your home's foundation and store food securely to keep these intruders out. 

Silverfish:

Spring cleaning activities or changes in storage habits can disturb hidden silverfish populations leading to their emergence into more visible areas of your home. In addition, these small, wingless insects thrive in damp conditions and are attracted to humid areas. Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in your home, especially in basements and bathrooms, to deter silverfish from entering.

Bring in the Professionals

If pest infestations persist, consider seeking professional pest control services. JP McHale Pest Management’s team of professional pest experts can identify the specific pests causing issues and implement targeted solutions to keep your home pest-free.