Cold weather is still with us, but after the New Year comes new life. Yes, that means budding flowers and chirping birds, but it also means the return of some of the Tristate’s most bothersome and harmful pests. If you thought you had until t-shirt weather to prepare for the onslaught of invaders, be aware that the return of these three pests may be sooner than you realize. We’ll take a closer look at each in subsequent blogs, but this overview will give you the spring pest control knowledge you need to start planning your defense.
Ticks
Ticks reemerge at the first sign of warm weather and are known to carry variety of diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. The best known is Lyme disease, but ticks can also carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. These can cause severe symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and even death. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have been bitten by a tick and are experiencing any symptoms.
There are several types of ticks, but the black-legged tick, or “deer tick,” is the most common carrier of Lyme disease. The lone star tick is known for spreading ehrlichiosis and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI). The American dog tick can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Learn more about tick-borne diseases by reviewing the CDC’s comprehensive list.
Regular pest control treatments are the most reliable way to keep ticks at bay. Masters Pest Control uses safe and effective methods specifically designed to target ticks and reduce their populations on your property. Learn more about protecting your property from ticks.
Termites
Termite season can begin as early as March. The damage caused by these pests often goes undetected for years. As the weather warms up, it’s important to prepare your property’s defense.
There are several signs of a termite infestation, including small piles of sand or dirt, maze-like patterns in wood, mud tubes leading up your home’s foundation, and crumbling or hollow-sounding wood. Termites can enter your home through cracks as small as 1/64 of an inch, so it’s essential to take proactive measures to reduce the chances of an infestation.
Fortunately, our termite inspection includes a thorough examination of your home’s structure, inside and out. Our experts then develop a customized plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future occurrences using sustainable, environmentally friendly, and pet-safe solutions. Learn more about our termite services and request a quote.
Mosquitoes
Like ticks, these other blood-sucking pests get an early start on their feeding and breeding. Mosquitoes breed and lay eggs in standing water, so early spring’s dampness and heavy rains provide optimal conditions once the annual thaw begins.
The CDC acknowledges 12 different mosquito species that carry illnesses humans are susceptible to, with some carrying deadly diseases like West Nile virus. Mosquitos are already a nuisance, but these diseases make their presence dangerous. The CDC also offers more information about mosquitoes and the illnesses they carry.
Masters Pest Control offers a solution in the form of the In2Care Mosquito Control program, which controls mosquito populations with discrete traps but is pet friendly and safe for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Learn more about In2Care Mosquito Control, here.
Don’t be caught off guard when pests begin to swarm! The right knowledge, preparations, and Tristate pest control partner can make sure life returns to your property this year without pests.