As different insects and rodents are active at various times of the year, it’s critical to take seasonal pest control measures. Understanding the seasonal pest patterns of Calgary homes and yards helps homeowners maintain a pest-free environment. It enables them to be proactive and prepared for challenges. They can adapt their strategies and improve their chances of remaining bug—and rodent-free. The following are the most common pests in Calgary and suggestions regarding seasonal pest control.
Summer Pest Patterns and Pest Control Suggestions
Calgary’s warm summer temperatures and high humidity are a perfect breeding ground for pests. Beware of and be prepared for the following:
- Mosquitos show up in late spring and peak in mid-summer. They’re primarily active at dusk and dawn. As they lay their eggs in standing water, eliminating water sources in your yard (clogged gutters, bird baths, still ponds/pools, etc.) assists with management. Ensure your screens are in good repair and plant mosquito-repellent vegetation (lavender, citronella, marigold, etc.). Contact a Calgary pest control expert for optimal treatment and keep your yard and house pest-free.
- Wasps and hornets arrive in late summer and are capable of multiple stings. Remember to cover all food when dining outdoors, remove potential nest sites, and keep garbage cans tightly lidded. Decoy nests deter territorial wasps from building, and repellents/traps keep them in check.
- Ants (carpenter, pavement, and sugar ants) are attracted to sugary substances and food crumbs. They dwell in sidewalk and driveway cracks or build nests in wood. Clean spills and crumbs from outdoor eating areas, seal doors/windows, pay attention to moisture issues in your home, utilize ant bait stations, and plant ant-repellent plants (marjoram, lavender, tansy, etc.).
- Spiders dwell in corners, under eaves, and in gardens. Many are harmless and beneficial. To reduce numbers, keep eaves, corners, and your garden debris-free. Remove visible webs and try essential oil sprays (citrus, peppermint, eucalyptus, cedarwood, citronella, lavender, tea tree, etc.).
Winter Pest Patterns and Pest Control Suggestions
When winter cold descends, pests head for shelter to survive. That shelter may be your home! Beware of and be prepared for the following:
- Rodents seek food and warmth in the winter months. Block entry points (around pipes and utility lines, foundation cracks, under sinks, washing machines, the fireplace, behind/inside cabinets, between floor junctions and walls, attic, windows, roof, doors, attic vents, crawl space, around cable wire, outdoor faucets, etc.) Stack firewood a safe distance from the house.
- Spiders move indoors to find shelter from the cold. Remove egg sacks and vacuum webs. Check and address possible entry points.
- Cockroaches become active during cold weather as they hunt for moisture and warmth. Quickly address moisture and leaks, try traps/bait, and ensure ventilation (bathroom, kitchen). If the problem continues, contact a pest control expert.
Are you having a pest control problem? Need help dealing with an infestation? Contact the experts at One Man and a Lady Bug. We can help!
