As the summer heats up in St. Louis, so does the activity of various pests that can disrupt our lives. From disease-carrying insects to destructive critters, it’s crucial to be aware of the top pests that are likely to invade your space during the warmer months. Here’s a rundown of the top 5 pests to watch out for this summer and some tips on how to keep them at bay.
1. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are synonymous with summer, and unfortunately, they thrive in the warm, humid conditions that St. Louis offers. Not only are their bites irritating, but mosquitoes are also notorious for spreading diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus.
Prevention Tips:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so regularly empty any standing water from containers, birdbaths, and gutters.
- Use Repellents: Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when spending time outdoors.
- Professional Treatments: Consider professional mosquito control treatments for your yard to reduce their population significantly.
2. Ticks
Ticks are another common summer pest that poses significant health risks. These tiny arachnids can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Prevention Tips:
- Wear Protective Clothing: When hiking or spending time in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves, pants, and tuck your pants into your socks.
- Use Tick Repellents: Apply repellents with ingredients like permethrin on clothing and DEET on skin.
- Check for Ticks: Regularly check pets and family members for ticks after spending time outdoors and remove any promptly.
3. Ants
Ants may seem harmless, but they can be a nuisance when they invade your home in search of food and water. Different species of ants, including carpenter ants and odorous house ants, become more active during the summer.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal Food: Keep food in airtight containers and clean up spills and crumbs immediately.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal any cracks or openings around your home to prevent ants from entering.
- Professional Help: If you have a persistent ant problem, consider contacting a pest control professional to identify and treat the infestation.
4. Stinging Insects (Bees, Wasps, Hornets)
Stinging insects like bees, wasps, and hornets are more active in the summer as they search for food and build nests. Their stings can be painful and, in some cases, cause severe allergic reactions.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid Scents: Refrain from wearing strong perfumes or scented lotions that can attract these insects.
- Cover Food: Keep food and drinks covered when eating outdoors to avoid attracting stinging insects.
- Nest Removal: If you notice a nest near your home, contact a professional to safely remove it.
5. Termites
Termites are active year-round, but you may notice their presence more in the summer as they swarm to establish new colonies. These wood-destroying insects can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep Wood Away from Foundation: Store firewood, lumber, and other wood materials away from your home’s foundation.
- Fix Leaks: Repair any leaks in your home’s plumbing or roof to prevent moisture buildup, which attracts termites.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections with a pest control professional to detect and address termite activity early.
Why Call STL Pest Control for Service
When dealing with pests, it’s essential to have a reliable and professional pest control service by your side. Here’s why STL Pest Control should be your go-to choice:
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Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the pest control industry, STL Pest Control has the knowledge and skills to handle any pest issue effectively. Our team of experts is trained to identify, treat, and prevent a wide range of pests common to the St. Louis area.
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Customized Solutions: We understand that every home and pest problem is unique. That’s why we offer customized pest control solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with mosquitoes, ticks, ants, stinging insects, or termites, we have the right treatment plan for you.
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Safe and Effective Treatments: Your safety is our top priority. We use only the safest and most effective pest control products and methods to ensure your home remains pest-free without compromising your health or the environment.
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Preventative Measures: At STL Pest Control, we don’t just eliminate pests; we also provide preventative measures to keep them from coming back. Our comprehensive pest control plans include regular inspections and maintenance to ensure long-term protection for your home.
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Exceptional Customer Service: We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service. From the moment you contact us, you’ll experience friendly, professional, and prompt service. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the best pest control solutions for your needs.
Summer in St. Louis brings not only fun and sunshine but also a surge in pest activity. By being aware of these top 5 pests and taking proactive measures to prevent them, you can enjoy a pest-free summer. If you find yourself facing a pest problem that you can’t handle on your own, don’t hesitate to contact STL Pest Control for professional assistance. Our experts are equipped to handle all your pest control needs, ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable haven throughout the season.