The summertime brings plenty of warmth and sunshine, but it also brings certain pests that you may be less than thrilled to find in your home or garden. Here are 5 of the pests that tend to be more of a problem during the hotter months:
Ants
Types of Ants in the US
In the United States, there are several common types of ants that often cause problems for homeowners. The carpenter ant, for instance, likes to bore into wood and may sometimes gnaw on cables or other electrical wiring. We also have fire ants, which are known for their particularly painful bite.
How to Prevent Ants in the Summer
To prevent ants from taking up residence in and around your home, be sure to limit sources of food and water, as ants are attracted to these areas. Be sure to also keep outdoor garbage cans securely covered and avoid leaving food or drinks lying around.
Mosquitoes
Why Mosquitoes are More Prevalent in Summer
Mosquitoes are another common pest that thrive in the summertime. This is mainly due to the fact that warmer temperatures provide the perfect environment for them to breed, as they lay their eggs in standing water.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes
To help prevent mosquitoes from taking up residence in your outdoor area, be sure to eliminate any standing water that might be present near your home. This could include things like birdbaths, buckets, and even flowerpots. You should also make sure to keep your pool and hot tub adequately cleaned to discourage mosquitoes from laying eggs.
Fruit Flies
Why Fruit Flies Are So Prevalent in Summer
Fruit flies are another common pest that tend to thrive in the summertime. The warmer weather encourages the population of these pests, as it provides the warmth that they need in order to reproduce quickly.
How to Prevent Fruit Flies
To eliminate fruit flies, it is important to regularly inspect your home for any rotting fruits or vegetables. Be sure to clean up any spills and dispose of any rotting produce promptly. It is also important to ensure that counters, both inside and outside of your home, are regularly wiped down and cleaned to prevent the accumulation of food debris and other organic materials that can attract fruit flies.
Wasps
Types of Wasps in the US
In the United States, there are several common types of wasps that can be found in and around homes. These include the yellowjacket wasps, which usually nest near human-made structures, as well as paper wasps and mud wasps, which like to make their nests in underground cavities.
How to Prevent Wasps in the Summer
To prevent wasps from taking up residence in and around your home, make sure to limit sources of food and water, which can attract them. Be sure to also keep outdoor garbage cans securely covered and check for nests regularly. If you do find a nest, be sure to call a pest professional for help in safely removing it.
Bed Bugs
Why Bed Bugs Love Summer
Bed bugs may not be as common in the summertime as other pests, but they can still become a nuisance in certain circumstances. Bed bugs are especially fond of warmer temperatures, as the increased heat helps them to breed and spread faster.
How to Prevent Bed Bugs
The best way to prevent bed bugs is to thoroughly inspect any second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home. Be sure to look in any cracks or crevices that may be present, as bed bugs are known to hide in these areas. Additionally, make sure to keep your home clean and vacuum regularly, as this can help to keep the population of bed bugs down.
People Also Ask
What attracts pests in the summer?
Pests are attracted to warm temperatures, moisture, and food sources like garbage, pet food, and ripe fruit.
What smell do pests not like?
Pests do not like strong scents such as peppermint, citrus, vinegar, and lavender.
How can I get rid of summer pests?
To get rid of summer pests, make sure to keep potential food sources covered and clean up any spills or decaying produce immediately. Additionally, remove any standing water sources, such as birdbaths and buckets, as this can attract mosquitoes. Finally, inspect your home for any signs of bed bugs and vacuum regularly to help control the population.
Final Words
Although the summertime brings plenty of warmth and sunshine, it is important to be aware of the potential pests that can be brought on by the change in weather. Ants, mosquitoes, fruit flies, wasps, and bed bugs are all common summer pests that you should be on the lookout for. The best way to prevent an infestation of any of these pests is to do your best to eliminate potential sources of food and water, and to keep your home clean and free of clutter.