With all the talk about weather changes over the past few months, you may be wondering what effects homeowners should expect to see from warmer, rainier weather in Georgia. The rain not only affects your routine, it can also affect pest populations in your home. Here's a look at what to expect during periods of excess rainfall and unseasonable warmth.
Rain, Pests and Shelter: Their Effects on Pest Populations
- Because the winter has been fairly mild due to the weather system's effects, you can expect that there will be more insect pests this year (due especially to those species' populations that would normally see a certain amount of dying off during colder temperatures).
- The excess rainfall and moisture are sure to make mosquitoes more problematic this year. Remember that mosquitoes bear a wide range of diseases, so you'll want to make sure you keep them under control in your home and yard. Mosquitoes also breed in standing water and only need an inch of waters to lay eggs. The mosquito eggs cluster in groups called rafts on standing water and rafts can be comprised of up to 300 eggs at a time. Be sure to do an inspection of your property a few times a week to ensure that there is no standing water for mosquitoes to lay eggs in. Common places where water accumulates that many homeowners may not consider emptying out are bird baths, tire swings, and water bowls for pets.
- Because excess water can cause outdoor homes to be inhabitable, pests such as soil-dwelling insects and rodents might try to find their way into your nice, warm, dry home during rainy weather. Make sure your house does not have any cracks or crevices on the exterior to help prevent these annoying critters from sneaking into your home, finding a place to live, and eventually breeding.
- Have you cleaned your gutters recently? Have you checked to make sure your downspouts are directing water away from your foundation? Damp earth around your foundation walls can make it a haven for termites. This can quickly cause serious problems when it comes to your home's structure. These pests eat wood because the cellulose in the wood provides a food source. An average colony can eat a 2x4 in six months but some species of termites can munch through wood even faster.
- Financial gurus are looking at pest management companies as a good investment because they know these companies will see some serious increases in business this year. That means that your pest control service may be booked up further out for standard maintenance services, so make sure you set up an appointment well ahead of when it's needed.
Knowing what to prepare for can help you ensure that the impact of pests on your home during these special weather cycles is kept to a minimum. If you need pest control services, either for this weather cycle or on an ongoing basis, please contact Breda Pest Management today. We look forward to helping you keep your home safe!
