5 Pests to Look Out for During the Summer
The hottest months are here and it’s the perfect time to hit the beach or go camping in Washington’s most popular campgrounds. But while the summer months are the best time to go outdoors, it’s also a great time for common pests to thrive in your home and surroundings. The warm summer weather and longer days heighten pests’ activity. So as you anticipate your pest control needs this summer, here are five pests to look out for during the hottest time of the year.
Ants
Ants come out in the springtime and stay around the whole summer to forage for food and store them in preparation for the colder fall and winter months. While ants are generally harmless, they can be a challenge to eradicate once they’ve infested your home.
The most common ant species that invade homes in the summer are carpenter ants, odorous house ants, and moisture ants. Carpenter ants are notorious wood-destroying organisms or WDO pests that can damage expensive furniture and wood that make up your home. Wood shavings and rustling noises coming from inside walls are some of the early signs of carpenter ant infestation.
Odorous house ants, also known as “sugar ants,” are annoying pests here in the Pacific Northwest. They are known for their scent which smells like rotten coconuts or blue cheese when crushed. Meanwhile, moisture ants are known for their habit of nesting in damp environments. While they won’t infest wood that isn’t already damaged, their tunneling can cause structural damage that you’ll have to address as soon as possible.
Termites
These tiny pests are more than just a nuisance. They are responsible for billions of property damage every year. They feed on the wood structure of your home and can be very difficult to eliminate once they’ve their colony. These pests are one to look out for during the summer. If you see any sign of termite infestation in your home, you should call Sunrise Pest Management for termite control immediately.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes thrive in warm and humid environments. They can not only be annoying but also transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. To prevent mosquito bites, consider using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are a huge nuisance and can cause extremely itchy bites. They live in our bed sheets and comforters and getting rid of these stubborn bugs can be a difficult task. It’s important to stay on guard against these sneaky bugs especially when the summer is a time for family travels. Not to mention these bugs are great at hitchhiking.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are resilient pests that thrive in warm and humid environments. They can trigger allergies and asthma and spread bacteria and pathogens. To prevent cockroach infestations, keep your living areas clean and dry, fix any water leaks, and seal cracks and gaps where cockroaches might enter. Store food in airtight containers and regularly empty your trash cans. If you suspect an infestation, consider using cockroach baits or consult a professional pest control service.