Summer is a time for sun, swimming, picnics and … bugs. Insects are cold-blooded and so the hot summer months are the busiest time of year for the pest control industry. According to the National Pest Management Association, the five top summer pests are mosquitoes, ants, wasps and hornets, spiders and ticks.
Here are some tips on how to keep these pests from bugging you this summer (see what I did there?).
Mosquitoes
Get rid of any standing water around your home. That is where mosquitoes live and breed. Also be sure to repair any holes in your screens and don’t leave your doors open. They will find a way into your home. Citronella candles that can help minimize the presence of mosquitoes at your outdoor parties.
Ants
Ants are looking to escape the weather by finding a way inside your home. Caulk any cracks to keep them outside. It can be hard to find all of the ways these insects can find their way into your home. We can help you with this. Also, don’t provide ants food and water by over watering your houseplants and be sure to keep your pet food in sealed containers (not just in the bag you bought it in).
Wasps and Hornets
Wasps and hornets often aggressively protect their nests, so leave it alone and call a pest professional right away. Stinging insects are often attracted to sweet-smelling fragrances. Avoid using perfume or cologne, and opt for unscented lotions and sunscreen when entertaining outdoors.
Spiders
Spiders simply are just not fun and easily ruin any venue where a good time is the goal. If you prefer not to have them in your home, do the same as with ants and fill in cracks to keep them outside. Windy weather brings them in high numbers to your garden. Be sure to keep bushes and shrubs cut back away from making contact with your home or any structures on your property.
Ticks
After spending time outdoors, check yourself and your pet to keep from bringing ticks indoors. Wear long pantswhen outdoors in long grass. At your home, there isn’t much you can do to prevent wild animals from bringing ticks onto your property, so just be sure to check carefully before heading inside.
Bonus pest threat: Fleas
These blood-suckers can live anywhere and like the heat. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, just one flea can multiply to 1,000 fleas in your home in just 21 days.
Don’t let these summertime pests ruin your good time. Call or text Nottingham Pest Control today at 925-732-2310.
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