Seasonal: Spring Pest Threats
As the weather changes and temperatures rise, our area sees a surge in seasonal pest activity. Advance Pest Control is here to help you understand and manage these common spring invaders. We’re here to help ensure your home and property remain pest-free.
Ants
Carpenter Ants
These large ants can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood. They are particularly attracted to damp or decaying wood.
Odorous House Ants
Known for the unpleasant odor they emit when crushed, these ants are drawn to sweet substances and can quickly infest kitchens and pantries.
Fire Ants
With their painful stings, fire ants build mounds in lawns and gardens. Their aggressive nature makes them a significant nuisance.
Termites
One of North Carolina’s BIG Spring pest problems. Beginning in March, Termite swarmers emerge to establish new colonies. This is a critical time for termite prevention and detection.
Swarmers are winged reproductive termites and are often the first sign of a potential infestation.
Active termite colonies can cause significant structural damage to homes over time. Early detection and treatment is crucial.
What should you look for?
It’s common to find swarmers near windows or doors. Other signs of a potential termite problem include discarded wings, mud tubes on foundation walls and hollow-sounding wood.
Mosquitoes
As spring temperatures rise, mosquito activity increases significantly. Eliminating standing water around your property is essential for mosquito control and prevention.
What should you look for? To effectively control mosquitoes, it’s important be aware of both their activity and breeding habits:
Inspect your property for any standing water sources, including clogged gutters and downspouts, pet water bowls and children’s toys and old tires or containers.
It’s also wise to monitor areas with dense vegetation, these can provide shelter for mosquitoes.
Ladybugs
Ladybugs are useful insects that feed on aphids and other garden pests. However, they can become a nuisance if they enter homes seeking shelter.
What should you look for?
Increased numbers of ladybugs outdoors and potentially indoors.
Spiders
Spring triggers a significant increase in spider activity. You can expect to find them both indoors and out, building webs and searching for prey.
What should you look for?
Increased spider webs in corners, along baseboards and in outdoor areas such as soffits or on outdoor furniture. You may also notice small, cottony egg sacs in hidden areas.
Stinging Insects
Spring is when wasps, bees and hornets start building their nests. These insects can pose a threat to people and pets, especially those with allergies.
What should you look for?
Nest building activity under eaves, in trees and around structures.
Rodents
Spring is a prime breeding season for mice and rats, increasing the likelihood of home infestations. These rodents seek food and shelter indoors, posing both health and property risks.
What should you look for?
- Droppings: Small, dark pellets found along walls, in cabinets and under appliances.
- Gnaw marks: Evidence of chewing on wires, food packaging and wood structures.
- Nesting Materials: Shredded paper, fabric or insulation in hidden areas like attics or basements.
- Strange Noises: Scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night.
When everything is working well to control pests, you’re doing things right for me. Thank You John, for always taking good care of me. I’ll see you again in about 3 months.
