The Spring Pests You Need To Watch Out For

Spring has officially sprung in Alabama! Temperatures are rising, we have an extra hour of sunshine, and summer is just around the corner. However, with all the positives of spring, the rise in temperature, unfortunately, brings back a few pests that have been away for the winter. Though you may see a decrease in pests such as rats and mice, as your home is no longer the warmest place for them to burrow, you will most definitely see an increase in cold-blooded insects that are coming out to enjoy the warming temperatures. Here are five of the most common pests you will see this spring, and what you can do to get rid of them. 

Wasps: The Mean Ones

Wasps stay indoors during the winter, but the newly warm temperatures wake them right up and send them buzzing around your house. They are eager to build their nests, which may lead to a summer full of stings for your family. Make sure to get a good look at exactly what kind of wasp or yellow-jacket is forming a nest near your home so that your exterminator will know exactly how to take care of it. Most importantly, make sure to identify that it is a wasp and not a bee. Bees are essential pollinators and should not be exterminated. If you or someone in your family happens to be allergic to bee stings, contact a local honey producer or beekeeper and they will happily remove the bees from your home.

Mosquitoes: The Annoying Ones

Though more indicative of the arrival of summer, the early heat of Alabama makes spring the perfect time for mosquitoes to start breeding in your yard. Arguably one of the most annoying pests, mosquitoes breed in any amount of standing water. Pour out collected rainwater in buckets, watering cans, planters, and make sure to change the water of any fountains or birdbaths every few days. If your mosquito problem persists consider contacting a professional exterminator for help.

Spiders: The Scary Ones

These pests are one of the few springtime insects that will actually help you. Spiders are known for eating other insects like mosquitoes and can help prevent an infestation in your home. That being said, some spiders do have a poisonous bite. The only poisonous spiders in Alabama are the brown recluse and black widow. These spiders like to live in dark, sheltered areas like woodpiles, garbage cans, garages, or basements. Check these areas for any cobwebs that may be indicative of spiders taking up residence. Make sure to wear protective gloves when reaching into dark areas to avoid an unexpected bite. 

Termites: The Unseen Ones

Termites come alive during the spring and can cause massive damage to the wood in your house or other nearby wooden structures like decks or sheds. Watch for the signs of termites like black powdery droppings, mud tunnels on your homes’ exterior, and hollow-sounding wood. Termites can ruin your spring, so if you suspect that you may have an infestation, call your exterminator immediately.

Fleas: The Hitch-Hikers

You may love your dog or cat but you know who loves them even more? Fleas. If you have a pet, keep an eye on them this spring, especially if they go outside frequently. Any excessive scratching may be a sign that fleas have taken up home in their fluffy coat. Try to use a  flea comb on them at least once every few days to catch any pests that may have latched on during those long spring walks. If you find a flea there are plenty of at-home flea medications available at your local pet store or contact your vet for the best way to get rid of the fleas. Being proactive will prevent a costly infestation and keep you and your pet healthy and pest-free.

Don’t Let Pests Ruin Your Springtime Fun

Spring is one of the best seasons, flowers are blooming and the world is coming alive again after winter. Keep an eye on the pests around your home to make sure that you have a fun spring free of any kind of infestation or nasty pests. If you do notice you have some spring pests in your home, give us a call and we’ll make sure they go away. You can call us by phone at (251) 981-3000 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation; either way, you can’t go wrong.