As temperatures rise, pesky pests emerge with a vengeance. Spring brings an increase in the population of many types of creepy crawly pests including wasps, bees, ants, ticks, and of course termites. To protect yourself and your home from these intruders, it is important to prepare ahead of time. In this article, we will go over some steps you can take to get ready for a spring awakening of pests.
Identify Pest Problems
The first step to preventing a pest problem is to identify any current pest problems you may have. Look for tell-tale signs of an infestation such as droppings, nests, or webs. Keep in mind that some pests are more active during different times of the year, such as ants and wasps in the spring. It is also a good idea to check for water leakage or standing water that could be attracting pests.
Check for Entry Points
Once the problem is identified, it’s time to figure out how pests are getting in. Look for any entry points into your home, such as cracks and crevices around windows and doors. These areas should be sealed with caulk or weatherstripping. Additionally, inspect any foundation vents and make sure they have screens to prevent bugs from entering.
Install Exterior Barriers
To further protect your home, you can install physical barriers such as screens and fences around the outer perimeter of your property. This will help keep out flying pests such as bees and wasps, as well as four-legged intruders such as raccoons and skunks. For an extra layer of protection, you can also spread an insecticide around the outside of the house.
Review your Landscaping
When it comes to pest control, your landscaping plays an important role. Remove any potential hiding places such as piles of leaves and stacks of wood. Additionally, trim back any shrubbery and keep plants away from the foundation of your house.
Set Traps and Bait Stations
Once you have identified the problem and made any necessary repairs, it’s time to set out traps and bait stations. This will help reduce the population of pests and will also alert you to new infestations. It is important to check the traps and bait stations regularly and replace them as needed.
People Also Ask
How do I prevent pests from entering my home?
The best way to prevent pests from entering your home is to use a combination of physical barriers such as screens and fences, and chemical repellents such as insecticides. Additionally, it is important to inspect your property regularly for any signs of pests and seal up any possible entry points.
What type of traps should I use for pests?
This will depend on the type of pest you are trying to trap. Glue boards and electronic traps are effective for small insects such as ants, while electronic traps and baits are often used for larger pests such as rats and mice.
What type of bait should be used for pest control?
Bait for pest control vary depending on the type of pest you are trying to control. For ants and roaches, you can use boric acid baits, while for larger pests such as rats and mice, you can use food-based baits.
How often should I check my traps and bait stations?
It is important to check your traps and bait stations regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. It is best to check them at least once a week and replace them as needed.
What should I do if I see a live pest in my house?
If you see an active pest in your home, the best thing to do is to isolate it and then remove it. For example, place an inverted cup over the insect and then slide a piece of paper underneath it to remove it from the area.
Final Words
Spring can be a time of unwelcome visitors, but with a few simple preparations, you can ensure your home is protected against pesky pests. Identifying, sealing, trapping, and baiting are all important steps in preventing pest infestations. So, take the time to properly prepare to keep these pests at bay this spring.