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Friday FAQ: Why Are There More Pests in My Home During the Summer?

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Friday FAQ: Why Are There More Pests in My Home During the Summer?

Welcome to our Friday FAQ series! Today, we’re addressing a common question: Why are there more pests in my home during the summer? If you’ve noticed an uptick in ants, mosquitoes, flies, and other pests as the temperatures rise, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into why summer weather attracts more pests and what you can do to keep them at bay.

Why Summer Increases Pest Activity

Accelerated Breeding Cycles

Warm weather accelerates the breeding cycles of many pests. Insects like ants, mosquitoes, and flies thrive in higher temperatures, allowing them to reproduce more quickly. For example:

  • Ants: Warm weather encourages ants to forage for food and water, leading them to invade homes in search of sustenance.

  • Mosquitoes: Higher temperatures speed up the development of mosquito eggs, resulting in more frequent hatches.

  • Flies: Flies lay eggs in warm, moist environments, which are more abundant in the summer.

Increased Activity

In addition to faster breeding cycles, pests are generally more active during the summer. The warmth stimulates their metabolism, making them more energetic and likely to explore new areas, including your home. This increased activity means you’re more likely to encounter pests indoors and outdoors.

Common Summer Pests

Ants

Ants are social insects that live in colonies. During the summer, they become more active in their search for food and water. You might notice trails of ants leading into your kitchen or pantry, attracted by crumbs and spills.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are notorious summer pests. They breed in standing water, which is more common during the summer due to increased rainfall and outdoor activities. Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance but also pose health risks as carriers of diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus.

Flies

Flies thrive in warm weather and are attracted to food, garbage, and decaying organic matter. They can quickly become a nuisance, contaminating food and surfaces with bacteria.

How to Keep Summer Pests at Bay

Maintain Cleanliness

Keeping your home clean is the first line of defense against summer pests. Regularly dispose of garbage, clean up food spills, and store food in sealed containers. This will reduce attractants for pests like ants and flies.

Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so it’s essential to eliminate any potential breeding sites around your home. Regularly check and empty containers that can collect water, such as flower pots, birdbaths, and gutters.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps that pests could use to enter. Seal these entry points with caulk or weatherstripping to keep pests out. Pay special attention to doors, windows, and utility openings.

Use Pest Control Measures

Consider using pest control measures like baits, traps, and insecticides to manage pest populations. For more severe infestations, it’s best to seek professional help.

Conclusion

Summer weather creates ideal conditions for pests to thrive, leading to increased encounters with ants, mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. By understanding why pests are more active during the summer and taking proactive steps to keep them at bay, you can enjoy a pest-free home throughout the season.

For professional pest control services, contact Paragon Pest Control. We proudly serve Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Garland, Frisco, McKinney, Carrollton, Richardson, Lewisville, Mansfield, Weatherford, Aledo, Benbrook, and more. Call us at (972) 435-9797 or visit paragonpestdfw.com to schedule your service and keep your home pest-free.