Pest Outlook for May and June
With warm, damp weather in place, May and June are “warming up” to be a real pair of pest-filled months. Below we discuss our expectations for emerging pest control issues for Bryan and College Station.
Warm Damp Weather
Anytime the weather is warm and damp, it spells trouble. One of the most significant pests of the year is quite fond of warm, wet weather. Those are the mosquitoes. We expect they will be out and swarming anyone who is out around dawn and dusk. Texas has an invasive mosquito that can transmit yellow fever now. One of the most significant differences between those naturally occurring mosquitoes and the new species is that the new species hunts in the hottest parts of the day.
Snakes and Reptiles
Reptiles love heat, so it is more likely that you will see a more significant number of snakes over the next several months. Generally, the snakes are there, and we don’t notice them. However, with the dampness and rain, they will be out sunning themselves more often. In dryer conditions, it is easier for them to stay warm. Because snakes are Ectotherms – cold-blooded – they need outside sources to remain warm. Be on the lookout for reptiles that are enjoying the sun.
Wildlife
Many of the larger animals — Raccoons, skunks, and possums — tend to stay close to their den sites during the colder months of the year. During the mid-spring and early summer, you will see more wildlife out looking for food. Also, you may see more animals that can become pests, such as rabbits. Rabbits and other grazers can cause havoc in yards and gardens.
You can help to discourage wildlife from becoming pests by making it more difficult for them to find an easy meal at your house. A good tip is to feed pets indoors or take up the pet food when your pet is finished eating.
Annual Pests
There is a large number of pests that are here year-round. Those include the creepy, scurrying cockroach and the ever-present ant. May and June will be heavy with pest issues from pests that are already present.
Houseflies are another annual pest; while they may not be around all year, they will be more active indoors due to the dampness outside. It is also that time of year when drain flies emerge, and with them come the swarms of gnats and fruit flies.
Pre-Emerging Pests
Right now is a prime time for pests. Many of the summer pest populations are just now emerging. That means now is the time to look at pre-emerging pest options. The wasp populations should still be relatively small. A pre-emerging pest option would be to limit the population of summer pests before their populations become so large that they become a more significant pest issue.
If something is pestering you, bug us. We provide comprehensive pest control services throughout the Bryan and College Station communities. Be sure to ask about our ongoing monthly service options that are both affordable and convenient.
