5 Common Summertime Pests Found in Eastern Virginia Homes and How to Keep Them Out
Summer is here, and it’s time for outdoor activities and barbeques. Unfortunately, it’s also the time when pests invade our homes. These uninvited guests come in search of food, water, and shelter, and can often be difficult to get rid of. Some pests, such as mosquitoes and ticks, can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. To protect yourself and your home from these pests, it’s essential to know what you’re dealing with and how to keep them out. Here, then, are the five most common summertime pests found in Eastern Virginia homes and how to keep them at bay.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are a common summer nuisance in Eastern Virginia. Not only do they cause itchy bites, but they can also carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika. To keep mosquitoes at bay, it’s important to eliminate any standing water around your home. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so get rid of any potential breeding sites such as old tires, flowerpots, and bird baths. You can also use insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin when going outdoors. Even better, subscribe to our mosquito control services and take care of these pests for good.
Ticks
Ticks are another pesky summertime pest that can carry diseases such as Lyme disease. They can be found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and even in your own backyard. To prevent ticks from entering your home, create a barrier by keeping your lawn mowed and trimming long grasses. When going outdoors, wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing, and tuck your pants into your socks to prevent ticks from crawling up your leg. After spending time outdoors, do a tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets.
Ants
Ants are summertime pest that often makes their way into our homes in search of food. Once one ant finds a food source, it’ll leave a scent trail for other ants to follow. To keep ants out of your home, keep all food stored in airtight containers and wipe down counters and floors regularly. You can also use ant baits to kill the ant colony.
Flies
Flies are a common summertime pest that can be both annoying and unsanitary. They’re attracted to decaying food and animal waste, so make sure to dispose of your garbage regularly. You can also keep flies out of your home by using screens on doors and windows, as well as fly paper or fly tape.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are a year-round pest that can multiply quickly in the summertime when the temperature is warm and humid. They can carry bacteria and allergens that can cause respiratory problems in some people. To keep cockroaches out of your home, make sure to clean up any food spills or crumbs, seal cracks and crevices around your home, and eliminate any sources of standing water.
Summertime pests can be a hassle, but by taking the appropriate preventative measures, you can keep them out of your home. Remember to eliminate standing water for mosquitoes, keep your lawn trimmed for ticks, store food properly for ants, dispose of garbage for flies, and keep your home clean for cockroaches. If you do have a pest infestation, it’s best to contact us and let us deal with your problem.
Stay safe and enjoy your summer pest-free.
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