Ants are most active during warmer months, typically spring and summer, when they emerge in search of food and water. Their colonies thrive in these seasons due to favorable temperatures and abundant resources. In properties, ants can cause damage in several ways: Structural Damage: Carpenter ants, for instance, burrow into wood to build their nests, compromising structural integrity over time. Contamination: Food contamination occurs as ants scavenge, spreading bacteria along their trails. Electrical Issues: Some species, like fire ants, may invade electrical systems, causing short circuits or equipment damage. Effective ant management requires identifying the species and addressing both the colony and the conditions that attract them.

Rats are active year-round but are especially problematic in fall and winter when they seek warmth and shelter indoors. These cunning rodents are nocturnal, often remaining hidden until their nighttime escapades for food and nesting materials. On properties, rats cause significant damage by: Gnawing: They chew through wires, causing electrical fires, and destroy wooden structures, insulation, and even plumbing. Contamination: Their droppings, urine, and saliva can contaminate food and surfaces, spreading harmful bacteria like Salmonella. Health Hazards: Rats carry diseases such as leptospirosis, hantavirus, and plague, posing serious health risks to occupants. Controlling rats requires swift action to block entry points, eliminate attractants, and reduce their population.

Cockroaches are active year-round but are most noticeable in summer and fall when warmth and humidity provide ideal breeding conditions. These resilient pests often invade kitchens, bathrooms, and dark crevices, thriving where food, water, and shelter are available. On properties, cockroaches: Damage: Contaminate food, packaging, and surfaces with their droppings and secretions, leaving stains and unpleasant odors. Health Hazards: Spread harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. Their droppings and shed skins also trigger allergies and asthma, particularly in children. Eradicating cockroaches requires thorough cleaning, sealing entry points, and using targeted treatments to break their reproductive cycle.

Silverfish are active year-round but are more likely to be spotted during the warmer months or in damp, humid environments like bathrooms, basements, and attics. These elusive, nocturnal insects thrive in dark and moist areas, making them frequent intruders in homes. On properties, silverfish cause damage by: Destruction: Feasting on paper, books, wallpaper, fabric, and even glue, they ruin important documents, stored items, and furnishings. Contamination: While they don’t transmit diseases, their droppings can contaminate food and storage areas. Though not a direct health risk, silverfish are unsightly and can worsen allergies for sensitive individuals. It may also indicate damp condition which need attention. Effective control involves reducing humidity, sealing entry points, and removing food sources.

Earwigs are most active in late spring and summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is high. They often invade homes during wet weather or in search of shelter as temperatures drop in the fall. These nocturnal insects prefer damp, dark areas like basements, bathrooms, and under kitchen sinks.

Wasps are most active during late spring, summer, and early fall. In the spring, queen wasps emerge from hibernation to build nests and establish colonies. By late summer, the worker wasps become more aggressive as they scavenge for sugary foods to prepare for the colder months. On properties, wasps can: Damage: Build nests in attics, eaves, walls, or other crevices, potentially damaging structures. Some species, like paper wasps, chew wood to create their nests, which can degrade wooden surfaces. Health Hazards: Wasps are known for their painful stings, which can cause swelling, redness, and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in sensitive individuals. Multiple stings can pose serious health risks, especially if a person is swarmed. Preventing wasp infestations involves regular inspections, sealing gaps, and safely removing nests when they appear. If dealing with aggressive species, professional pest control is often the safest option.

Termites are most active during warm months, with swarming season typically occurring in spring or early summer. During this time, reproductive termites (swarmers) leave their colonies to establish new ones, often in or near homes. However, termites remain active year-round in warm climates or heated buildings. On properties, termites cause: Structural Damage: Subterranean termites feed on wood from the inside out, silently compromising a building's foundation, beams, and support structures. Over time, this can lead to sagging floors, cracked walls, and even collapse. Material Damage: In addition to wood, termites can damage paper, insulation, and certain plastics. Health Concerns: While termites don’t directly cause illness, their presence can lead to secondary issues. Mold growth in termite-damaged wood may pose respiratory risks, and their discarded wings and droppings can trigger allergies. Termite infestations require immediate action. Regular inspections and preventive measures, such as reducing moisture and sealing entry points, are crucial to protecting your property.

Crickets are most active during late summer and fall when they thrive in warm, humid conditions. As temperatures drop, they often seek shelter indoors, hiding in basements, crawlspaces, and other quiet areas. On properties, crickets can: Damage: Feed on fabrics, including wool, silk, and cotton, causing damage to clothing, upholstery, and rugs. They may also nibble on paper and stored items, leaving behind holes. Nuisance: Their constant chirping, especially at night, can be disruptive and annoying, affecting the comfort of your home. Health Concerns: While crickets don’t transmit diseases, their droppings can contaminate surfaces, and dead crickets may attract other pests, such as ants or spiders. Preventing cricket infestations involves sealing entry points, reducing moisture, and maintaining cleanliness to eliminate potential food sources.