Allentown, Pennsylvania has beautiful four seasons. But as the weather shifts, so too does pest behavior. From ants that march in during the spring to mice that sneak in during the winter, seeing how pest behavior changes from one season to the next can help homeowners stay one step ahead of infestations, says Presto Pest Control.

Here’s a look at how pests can behave at any time of year in Allentown and some of the ways to safeguard your home throughout the calendar year.

Spring: The Awakening of Insects

Spring and Allentown Insect Control Spring in Allentown, PA is when we all begin to come alive again and so do the insects. With temperatures warming and rain falling, bugs are coming out of the woodwork and into our homes looking for food, shelter and mates.

Common Spring Pests:

• Ants: Particularly odorous house ants and carpenter ants. They typically come into kitchens and bathrooms for food and water.
• Wasps and Bees: These pollinators start to build their nests under rooftops, in attics and inside wall spaces.
• Spiders: They follow their prey inside as they come out.

Prevention Tips:

• Caulk gaps in windows and doors.
• Cut bushes and trees back to eliminate openings.
• Keep food in airtight containers, and don’t leave crumbs lying around.
• Get a termite inspection as soon as possible to intercept the early growing evidence of termite infestation.

Summer: Peak Pest Activity

Allentown is hot and humid in the summer, making for perfect weather for most pests. At this point, you’re probably dealing with the peak period of pest activity, both indoors and outside.

Common Summer Pests:

• Mosquitoes: Summer rains and backyard features create standing water that can become a breeding ground.
• Flies: When it’s warm outside, flies are attracted to the food that ends up thrown in the trash, in the compost and in the yard (i.e. pet poop).
• Stings: Late summer is prime time for aggressive yellow jackets and hornets.
• Cockroaches: Heat and humidity is where roaches want to be, and that often means the kitchen and bathroom.

Prevention Tips:

• Remove the standing water from flower pots, birdbaths and gutters.
• Keep rubbish bins covered tightly and empty them frequently.
• Put screens on windows and patch any holes.
• Repel mosquitoes with citronella candles or insect-repelling plants.

Fall: Bugs Getting Ready For Winter

As the temperature in Allentown, PA drops it is not uncommon for pests to find their way indoors or develop outdoor pests problem. For many that means finding refuge inside.

Common Fall Pests:

• Rodents (Mice and Rats): In search of warmth and food, they can squeeze through small cracks in the foundation or under doors..
• Boxelder Bugs and Stink Bugs: These overwintering bugs congregate on warm walls and can enter homes.

Prevention Tips:

• Close all outside openings such as pipes and vents.
• Doors and windows should have weather stripping.
• Keep firewood outside the home and above the ground.
• Vacuum up invaders before they settle in for the season.

Winter

Common Winter Pests:

• Mice and Rats: Will nest and forage in walls, basements and kitchens.
• Cockroaches: They flourish in warm indoor settings, especially if there is food to eat.
• Bed Bugs: Travel effortlessly around the holiday season and are immune to cold temperatures.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep food in containers that are resistant to pests.
• Be sure to keep floors, especially underneath appliances, clean and free from crumbs.
• Check luggage and clothes when you return from holiday travels.
• Inspect insulation in the attic and basement for evidence of rodent nesting.

Pest activity is clearly influenced by seasonal shifts in Allentown. By learning how pests change with each season, homeowners can plan ahead and protect their homes. With routine home care, seasonal checks and professional pest control as needed, you can enjoy a clean and pest-free home all year round.