Winter 2019-20 has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride for Northeast Ohioans. Snow has fallen but melted rather quickly. Temperatures have dropped to single digits for a stretch, then climbed to unseasonably warm levels.
Most natives would agree the winter has overall been mild, however, and that can mean an early appearance by some pests. Warmer temperatures early in the year after a relatively mild winter will wake above ground insects and hatch dormant eggs. Early sprouting of plants and vegetation provides plenty of food for these young bugs, creating the perfect environment for early infestations and larger populations throughout the summer.
What to watch for
Big early offenders after a mild winter will be ants and ticks, both of which present nuisance issues as well as destructive and health issues.
All types of ants can be a nuisance, but carpenter ants are destructive, nesting in wood and weakening framing of decks and other structures. Unusually large populations can be attracted to fresh mulch in flower beds and then ultimately nest in landscaping timbers or the framing of your home, so it’s crucial to address their presence quickly.
Ticks have become more and more prevalent in the last few years, causing a serious increase in the incidence of Lyme disease. Ticks are resilient, and often manage to find sheltered environments in which to winter even in the coldest temperatures. A mild winter and early spring will find their populations thriving early and hitching rides on your clothing and your pets to get into your home.
What to do
Regardless of the winter weather we have experienced, addressing spring emergence of insects is always a good idea to help prevent infestations later in the season. Your pest control specialist can help you identify locations in and around your home that could potentially be harboring insect nests and treat them.
It’s also wise to take time now to clear your yard of brush and debris, fallen branches and sticks, and items that hold rainwater, as these can be an inviting breeding ground for insects. Standing water also is the main breeding ground for mosquitoes, which will also be plentiful later in the summer after a mild winter.
If you are concerned about an insect infestation in or around your home, contact A&A Pest Control for a comprehensive inspection and treatment of any bug or rodent problem. Click here for more information about individual treatments and service agreements that will keep your home and business pest free.