Spring in the Midwest can be elusive, yet it can also be one of the best seasons. After roosting all winter, folks are ready to spend time outside, start gardens and yardwork projects, watch and play spring sports, and more. However, homeowners know that spring pests are out and about again amidst all the fun.

Let’s discuss some common spring pests in the Midwest, how to prevent them from entering our homes, and what to do if they appear on our property.

Understanding Common Spring Pests in the Midwest

Ants:  The Midwest is home to various species of ants, including pavement ants, carpenter ants, and odorous house ants. During spring, ants become more active as they forage for food and establish new colonies. These tiny invaders can infiltrate our homes through even the most minor cracks and crevices, seeking out sources of food and water.

Mosquitoes:  With their itchy bites and potential to spread diseases, mosquitoes are a perennial nuisance in the Midwest. Common species such as the Aedes and Culex mosquitoes thrive in the region’s humid conditions, breeding in stagnant water sources like birdbaths, clogged gutters, and flowerpots.

Ticks:  Ticks are another concern during spring, especially for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, camping, or gardening. Species like the black-legged (deer) tick and the American dog tick are prevalent in the Midwest, posing health risks such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Termites:  While termites are active year-round, spring begins their swarming season. Subterranean termites, in particular, are a significant threat to homes in the Midwest, causing extensive damage to wooden structures and foundations.

Clover Mites: These tiny red pests may not directly threaten humans, but they can quickly become a nuisance when they invade our homes in large numbers. Clover mites feed on grass, clover, and other vegetation, often entering homes through cracks in windows and doors.

Bees & Wasps: Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators. However, certain species, such as honeybees and paper wasps, can become aggressive when their nests are disturbed. Bee and wasp populations thrive in spring, making vigil monitoring around nesting sites essential.

Preventative Measures Against Spring Pests

Implementing proactive prevention measures is the key to keeping spring pests at bay. Here are some tips to help homeowners protect their properties:

• Maintain cleanliness indoors and outdoors, including regular vacuuming, sweeping, and trash removal.
• Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent pests from gaining access to your home.
• Store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage promptly to eliminate food sources for pests.

Specific Prevention Techniques for Individual Pests:

• Ants: Keep kitchen counters clean, store food in sealed containers, and trim vegetation away from the perimeter of your home.
• Mosquitoes: Remove standing water from gutters, flowerpots, and other containers, and use mosquito repellents when spending time outdoors.
• Ticks: Wear long sleeves and pants when hiking or gardening, and perform regular tick checks on yourself, your children, and your pets.
• Termites: Schedule annual termite inspections, reduce moisture levels in and around your home, and use termite-resistant materials for construction.
• Clover Mites: Seal cracks in foundations and windows and maintain a dry environment by fixing leaks and improving ventilation.
• Bees & Wasps: Inspect your property for nests and hives regularly, and seek professional assistance for safe removal if necessary.

What to Do If Pests Are Detected

Despite your best efforts, pests may still find their way into your home. If you suspect an infestation, here’s what you should do:

• Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify the source of the problem.
• Contact a reputable pest control company with experience dealing with the specific pest species.
• Follow the recommendations provided by the pest control professional, which may include treatments, repairs, and ongoing monitoring.

Give PestShield a Call

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, but can also bring unwanted guests into our homes. By understanding the behavior and habits of common spring pests in the Midwest and implementing proactive prevention measures, homeowners can protect their properties and enjoy the season to its fullest.

PestShield is committed to keeping our customers’ homes safe and pest-free year-round. Whether you have our in-wall pest control system installed or require traditional pest control treatments, our expert team will help eliminate the problem and go through preventative measures to shield your home from a future infestation.

We would love to help with your questions and pest-control needs, so do not hesitate to contact us today!