Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

Springer Professional Home Services in Des Moines IA

Entomologists from Springer’s parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban, and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

Have a pest problem? We can help!

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

Seasonal Guide to Pest Infestations

Rodents are a common seasonal pest in Des Moines IA - Springer Professional Home Services

Everyone knows that pests are common in the spring and summer months, but what about in the fall and winter? Infestations actually can spike in the colder parts of the year as pests look to take shelter inside your property. To better prepare yourself for a possible infestation, it’s important to know which pests are common during certain parts of the year. Here in Iowa, we experience pest problems all year long. With information from the NPMA, the team at Springer Professional Home Services is here to share all you need to know about pest seasonality in Des Moines.

Fall and Winter Pest Problems

Our winter months are forecasted to get heavy snowfall this year. According to the NPMA, “Above-average snowfall in the northern part of this region may drive rodents indoors in search of shelter. The mild summer and winter forecast could increase cluster fly activity indoors.” Other pest problems to expect in the fall and winter months ahead include cockroaches and spiders. Because pests will want to shelter indoors to escape our cold temperatures, it’s important to protect your home from them entering.

Winter pests in the North Central United States map
 
Rodents
 
Flies

Spring Pests in Iowa

Pest activity springs back into action once winter comes to an end. Blooming flowers, warming temperatures, and heavy rainfall encourages pests of all kinds to resume activity and reproduce. Here’s the ones to keep an eye out for:

  • Termites. Every spring, termites leave their nests to mate and start new colonies. This is called “swarming”.
  • Ants. Certain ant species will forage for food in the warmer months. Rainy weather also drives ants out of their colonies and into homes for shelter.
  • Bed Bugs. While these are a year-round problem, increased traveling in the springtime always leads to an increase in bed bug activity.

Have a pest problem? We can help!

Summertime Pest Infestations

The summer months in Iowa bring about a lot of pest activity. Summer temperatures cause many types of pest colonies to mature and grow in size. Stay on the lookout for the following pests:

  • Mosquitoes. These parasitic insects lay more eggs in the summer and tend to be our biggest pest problem this time of year.
  • Stinging insects. Wasps, bees, and hornets are at full force in the summertime. They can build nests near residential areas.
  • Flies. Summer is the peak breeding season for flies. They are infamous for being a nuisance at outdoor summer events.

Seasonal Pest Problems in Des Moines

The nature of our climate year-round leads  It’s important to know which pests to keep your eye out for in order to prevent a seasonal pest problem. At Springer, our residential and commercial exterminators can work with you to ensure you are protected from pests all year long. Call us today!

Wasp Nest Identification Tips

Wasp nest identification guide in Des Moines Iowa - Springer Professional Home Services

Wasps are a common pest in the summer here in Central Iowa. Out in nature or in gardens, they’re a normal part of life. In fact, wasps are considered to be a very beneficial insect to our environment! However, they can quickly become a nuisance when they build their nests on or near your property. Certain wasp species become aggressive when it comes to defending their nest. Even worse, some are capable of stinging people repeatedly. For this reason, it’s best to avoid nests built nearby. However, it is nonetheless important to learn what different wasp nests look like. People assume they all build hives in trees—but that’s simply not true! The experts at Springer Professional Home Services are here to share their top tips for identifying different wasp nests we commonly see in the summertime.

Wasp Nests in Iowa

Wasps begin to build nests in the spring, but most are seen in the summertime as colonies grow in size. To best identify a wasp, it’s always smart to look at the characteristics of their nests!

  • Paper wasp
    • Look like upside-down umbrellas
    • These nests are more open, with cells visible
    • They are typically supported by a single stalk and made out of a papery substance
    • Found beneath eaves of structures, in attics and wall voids, and in other enclosed areas
  • Mud dauber
    • Nests are built by female wasps only
    • They are small and tubular in size, often looking like organ pipes.
    • Typically found in cracks or crevices that are sheltered
    • Often found under eaves, garages, attics, or on the sides of buildings

Wasp nest guide in Des Moines Iowa - Springer Professional Home Services

  • Yellowjacket
    • Consist of a papery material and have a single opening
    • Interior can contain up to 100 tiers of cells
    • Also nest underground, sometimes with thousands of members
    • Otherwise build nests in hollow trees, under porches, and a number of other areas
  • Bald-faced hornet
    • Almost always at least three feet off the ground
    • Consist of chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva
    • Can grow to the size of a football or basketball
    • Usually in trees, bushes, or wooded areas, but also can be on buildings

Safe & Quick Wasp Nest Removal

Wasp nests are more dangerous than you think. A small nest could contain hundreds of stinging insects that will not hesitate to sting when they feel threatened. If you notice a nest pop up on your property, always contact the stinging insect removal team at Springer. Our experts have the tools and experience needed to safely and quickly remove wasp nests from your property.

Have a pest problem? We can help!

Spring Allergies: Which Pests Trigger Them?

Seasonal allergies could be triggered by pests in the Des Moines IA area - Springer Professional Home Services

Here in Des Moines, allergies are a fact of life in the springtime. You or someone you know likely suffers from allergy symptoms ranging from a runny nose to itchy eyes each year. But are seasonal allergies only caused by the changing weather and blooming trees? Believe it or not, certain household pests are known to trigger allergic reactions, especially in children. If you have pests inside your home, pest allergens can exacerbate your already-bad springtime allergies! May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, and the team here at Springer Professional Home Services is committed to shining a light on the dangers of pest allergens in your home. Keep reading to learn how to prevent them!

Which Pests Trigger Allergy Symptoms?

As the weather warms up, it makes sense that many blame their allergies on the changing of the seasons. That said, pest allergens could be making your symptoms even worse. Dust mites in the home are a common cause of pest allergens. Cockroaches, however, are likely the biggest culprit of causing pest allergens. This happens when their droppings, saliva, or skins are in the environment. Stinging insects are another common trigger, as many people get allergic reactions to being stung.

Please note that it’s important to always call 911 or receive immediate medical attention if you have a severe allergic reaction, including swelling of the throat, wheezing, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Have a pest problem? We can help!

6 Ways to Get Rid of Pest Allergens

Thankfully, you can avoid pest allergens by avoiding pests altogether. By knowing how to keep pests out, you can protect your family from pest-related allergies. Some of our top tips include:

  1. Seal cracks and holes in your property, including entry points for utilities and pipes, screen doors, and windows.
  2. Store food in sealed containers and clean kitchens on a daily basis.
  3. Dispose of garbage regularly and use a tight-fitting lid.
  4. Keep your basements and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry!
  5. Wash blankets, rugs, and bedding in hot water or get them dry-cleaned.
  6. Vacuum and dust your property frequently!

Seasonal Pest Prevention

If you keep pests out of your home, you can prevent pest allergens. That may sound easy, but pest problems are common and it can be difficult to know how to prevent them. For help preventing pests in your property, the team at Springer is here to help.

Look Out For These Spring Pests!

Prevent spring pests by spring cleaning your Des Moines IA home. Learn more from Springer Professional Home Services!

If you live or work in the Des Moines area, you know that pest problems can be a year-round reality. Most of us welcome the spring season with open arms, but with warmer weather comes the resurgence of pests! With pest season only just starting, now is the time to protect your property against pests. Thankfully, most of us already have spring cleaning plans in place, making it easy to implement pest prevention at the same time! Read on for expert tips from the exterminators here at Springer Professional Home Services.

Springtime Pest Infestations

Although some of the below pests are active all year long, spring is the beginning of their most active season. The pests to be on the lookout for this time of year include:

  • Ants. Warming temperatures encourage ants to start invading once more.
  • Termites. It’s officially swarming season! Termite infestations tend to start around spring.
  • Rodents. Although they’re active year-round, rats and mice are a problem in the spring.
  • Stinging insects. Wasps and hornets are gearing up to build nests this time of year.
  • Stink bugs. After overwintering, people report a resurgence in stink bugs.

Have a pest problem? We can help!

How Can You Prevent Spring Pests?

With spring here, now is the time to learn how to prevent pests in your property! One of the best ways to do so is to thoroughly clean your property. Our top tips for protecting your property include the following areas to focus on. Clean your windows and doors, and make sure there are no cracks or crevices. Deep-clean your carpets by vacuuming, shampooing, or steam-cleaning them. Thoroughly sanitize your kitchen with a focus on your floors and beneath your appliances. Crumbs and spilled liquids are a goldmine for bugs and other pests!

Outside, clean up debris from your yard, gutters, and overhangs. Make sure to trim back tree limbs and shrubs away from the foundation of your home to keep outdoor pests outdoors.

Preventing Pests in the Spring and All Year Long

Pest season is officially underway, making it important to stay aware of the ways you can prevent pests. Your best bet is always to team up with a professional pest control expert such as Springer. Our exterminators can work with you to customize a pest control plan suited to the unique needs of your home and property.