Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers and, unfortunately, an increase in pest activity. As temperatures rise, many pests become more active in searching for food, water and places to nest. Some of these pests are simply a nuisance while others can pose serious health risks or structural damage to your home. Being aware of the most common spring pests can help you take preventative measures before they become full-blown infestations. Here are the common spring pests to look out for:
Mosquitoes
The mosquito population explodes in the spring as they take advantage of the warm weather and humidity. Standing water in birdbaths, clogged gutters or even small puddles create the ideal breeding grounds for these insects. Beyond itchy bites, mosquitoes can carry diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus. Reducing standing water around your home and using repellents can help keep them under control.
Flies
As the weather warms up, flies become more active, especially around food and waste. House flies and fruit flies are notorious for invading kitchens, as they are attracted to uncovered food sources like garbage and spills. Not only are flies a nuisance but they can also contaminate your food with harmful bacteria. Keep your home clean, store food in airtight containers and ensure trash is properly sealed to help prevent infestations.
Bees and Wasps
Bees and wasps emerge in spring to build nests and forage for food. Both can become quite aggressive if they’re disturbed or feel that their nests are threatened. Common nesting spots for bees and wasps include eaves, attics and inside walls. The number one way to prevent these insects from building nests inside your home is to seal entry points. Keeping them from building nests on the exterior of your home is a bit trickier, however, and this is where professional pest control is essential. Even so, if you notice a bee or wasp nest near your home, it’s best to call a pest control company rather than try to remove it yourself.
Termites
Spring is a peak season for termite swarms, as some species of termites leave their colonies to establish new ones. These silent destroyers are known for causing significant structural damage to people’s homes, often going unnoticed until it’s a serious issue. Signs of a termite infestation include hollowed-out wood, mud tubes and discarded wings. Regular inspections and preventative treatments can help protect your property from costly damage.
Bed Bugs
With travel increasing in the spring due to spring break, bed bugs can become a common issue in people’s homes. These tiny insects hide in mattress seams, furniture and clothing, making them difficult to detect until an infestation is well established. Unlike some of the other pests discussed, bed bugs don’t spread diseases, but their bites can cause itching, discomfort and allergic reactions. Always inspect your hotel room for bed bugs when traveling and store your luggage off the ground on a table or shelf to prevent them from hitching a ride back to your home.
Spring should be a time to enjoy the warm weather—not deal with unwanted pests. By staying vigilant and addressing potential infestations early, you can protect your home and stay pest-free all season long. Make Pro-Staff your trusted Ankeny pest control home team by requesting a free quote.
