Spring Pest Control

Spring is here, which means warmer weather, shorter sleeves, and flowers in bloom. It also marks the return of some nasty pests. With the seasonal shift, once dormant creatures emerge hungry, homeless, and ready to mate. As you begin your spring cleaning, it’s the perfect time to protect against potential unwanted bugs and rodents.

 

Here are the top tips for ending your spring pest problems.

 

Know your enemy

Pest management can be difficult if you don’t know what to expect. While some pests are around all year, certain culprits are more active in the spring. Some pests start their mating season during this time of year. Termites begin their swarms and rats start their mating cycles. Additionally, after the winter thaw, there is an abundance of standing water for mosquitos to thrive.

 

As the weather turns warmer, other pests start to become more active. Ants begin searching for food and spiders emerge. Typically, an increase in temperature means an increase in travel and the spread of the hitchhiking pests: bed bugs and ticks. Once you’ve identified your problem, it’s easier to fix it.

 

Inspect your exterior

Winter weather is harsh. Changes in temperature and heavy winter snow can lead to some major repairs for your home’s exterior. These weaknesses in your property can be exploited by pests looking for a cozy spot to live. Pests can sneak into your home through cracks in the stone, chipped windowpanes, or gaps around doors. Roof damage or loose siding can also be entry points for sneaky invaders. To keep pests out, perform yearly wear-and-tear maintenance.

 

Inspect your interior

After inspecting your property’s exterior, the next step is to examine the interior. Spring cleaning is more than just washing your curtains. Attics and basements are two prime spots, as well as any areas where your home utilities are kept. Damp basements are a draw for insects like silverfish and spiders, while attics are prime spots for nesting animals like rodents. Be thorough to make sure no pest made its way inside.

 

Maintain your yard

As the snow melts and temperatures rise, it’s time to look to your yard. Fall and winter leave potential pest hazards behind, such as debris, dead leaves, melted snow, and mud. Any damp wood or thick overgrowth can house potential spring pests. Additionally, any stagnant or standing water from puddles or in clogged gutters can be ideal for mosquito breeding. Maintain your property to avoid potential pest problems.

 

Monitor food & waste

After the winter thaw, pests are on the lookout for the essentials: food, water, and shelter. One way to keep these creatures out of your home is to be mindful about how you store their potential food source. Keep food – including pet food – stored in airtight containers. Clean up dishes and spills quickly, and make sure your indoor and outdoor garbage dumpster/trash can is kept closed.

 

Control moisture

The transition to spring often means dealing with a lot of moisture: rain, snow, runoff, and overflow. Pests are drawn to water either because they are searching for a drinking source, or they thrive in a damp environment.

 

Leaky pipes, blocked gutters, and pooling water can be a draw to many different creatures. While you can’t help how much it rains or snows, be sure to keep your gutters clean and maintain your plumbing.

 

Keep things clean

Spring is the best time of year to clear out any potential dirt and clutter gathered over the winter. Clutter and build-up can lead to serious pest problems, because extra junk means more areas for pests to hide. If you want to keep pests out, keep your home clean and tidy.

 

Contact a professional

Following these pest control tips is a great way to deter unwanted houseguests. However, even the most vigilant homeowner can face a pest management problem. If you suspect you may have an infestation, contact a professional pest control company for a thorough inspection.

 

We can help

No matter how intimidating or pervasive your pest problem, you can trust that Amco Ranger knows exactly how to handle it and make sure it doesn’t happen again. Give us a call today if you need help getting rid of pests in your home in Cottleville, St. Peters, O’Fallon, St. Charles, and surrounding communities.

Check out our bug survival guide for additional information.