Every country in the world experiences summer insect problems, but here in Arizona, we deal with them all year long. Of course, pest problems don’t just come and go with the seasons, they can also get worse (or better) when the weather is unusually warm or wet. If you’re going to stand the best chance of keeping your property’s pest problems to a minimum, you need to know their habits inside out.
What Insects are Affected by Freezing Temperatures?
Freezing temperatures are rare here, but not unheard of. Most pests will become dormant or take shelter when the temperature drops this low, especially if there is an additional wind chill. Termites are particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
The downside of freezing temperatures is you may find some rodents and pests (such as spiders) move inside to escape the cold. While the odd spider likely won’t do any harm (and will actually eat other small insects in your home), rodents won’t leave when the weather warms up and will start multiplying come spring.
What Insects are Affected by the Cold?
It’s also worth noting that insects like fleas and bed bugs slow down significantly when it’s cold, but often continue to thrive year-round because they come into our warm homes. Don’t forget to treat your pets for fleas as normal through the winter, even if it seems like they have been flea-free for months. It’s always a good idea to give your property a once-over for insects and pests before spring comes so you can spot a potential problem before it happens. Other insects, like ants, bees and scorpions, will disappear until spring.
What Insects are Affected By Heat?
No pest enjoys extreme heat (it’s one of the ways we safely eradicate them from our clients’ properties), but most of the insects that live here in Arizona are well adapted to the climate. When the temperature ramps up, don’t let pools of water sit outside the home (such as near your garden hose) as insects can drink from even small droplets, and they’ll be attracted to your home more than normal.
Scorpions especially enjoy hot and dry weather, so try not to leave garden waste piled close to the home, and keep an eye out for scorpions around your home and keep a close eye on your pets.
What Insects are Affected By Wet Weather?
Termites love wet wood as it starts to breakdown and is easier to chew. When the weather becomes unusually wet, check your home for leaks and ensure any exposed wood is treated.
All pests like a little moisture as it provides them with a source of water to drink from, which is especially important here in Arizona where it can become extremely hot and dry in the summer months. Be aware of any areas of your property that aren’t watertight, especially if they are dark and little-used, like outbuildings and garages. If the weather is wet and warm, you need to be on the lookout for black widows and other dangerous pests that move inside.
What Insects Thrive Year-Round?
Cockroaches – the myth that they can survive a nuclear bomb is a popular one for a reason; these creatures survive no matter what the weather. As talked about above, fleas, bed bugs, and termites all slow down in the winter, but as they often find their way inside our homes they can often thrive year-round. Spiders can also be a problem if they multiply significantly, so stay on the lookout for spiders like brown recluses and black widow spiders, and call us to take care of them.
By staying aware of the changes in pest insect activity, you’ll be able to spot a problem before it starts and take preventative action. We offer regular plans to help you keep your property pest-free, and if you see a worrying sign we offer free inspections, so you’ve got nothing to lose by calling us but plenty to gain! Click here to view our services [link: www.azexpest.com/pest-control/] or call us on 877-445-2847 to book your inspection.