The Top 5 Pests To Watch Out For In Vancouver, WA This Spring

Spring is the time of year when pests start to become active after a long, cold winter. In Vancouver WA in the Pacific Northwest, there are a few common pests that homeowners and gardeners should be on the lookout for. These pests can cause damage to property, spread disease, and be a nuisance to those trying to enjoy the outdoors. In this article, we will be discussing the top 5 most common spring pests and what you can do to protect yourself and your property from them.

Ants

Ants, particularly the odorous house ant, is the most common type of ant found in homes and gardens in Vancouver WA of the Pacific Northwest. They get their name from the distinct, “rotten coconut” smell they give off when crushed. They are small, about 1/8 inch long, and are dark brown or black in color. They are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms as they are attracted to sweets and greasy food. They are known for their large colonies and can be a persistent problem if not dealt with properly.

To prevent odorous house ants from entering your home, it is important to keep food in sealed containers and clean up spills and crumbs as soon as they happen. You should also check for cracks and crevices around your foundation and windows, as these are common entry points for ants. If you do find ants in your home, it is best to call a professional pest control company as they will be able to identify the specific species and recommend the best course of action.

Spiders

There are many spiders in the Pacific Northwest but the most common spider you are likely to see is the Yellow Sac spider. They are small, yellowish-green arachnids that are often found indoors and can be mistaken for other types of spiders. They are commonly found in ceilings, corners of rooms, and windows around your home in Vancouver, WA. These spiders are venomous and can bite humans, but the venom is not considered dangerous to most people.

To prevent yellow sac spiders from entering your home, it is important to keep your home clean and clutter-free. When living inside your home in Vancouver WA, it is common for spiders to hide in piles of laundry or stacks of paper, so keeping these areas clean will help reduce their numbers. You should also check for cracks and crevices around your foundation and windows, as these are common entry points for spiders. If you find a yellow sac spider in your home, it is best to use a vacuum to remove it, and then seal the crack or crevice it came through.

Ticks

Unfortunately, ticks are common in Vancouver, WA. Because they can carry disease they may pose a health risk to humans. Ticks are small and difficult to see, often hiding in tall grass and shrubs. They can also be carried into your home on pets. To prevent ticks in your yard, keep your lawn mowed and clear away tall grass and shrubs. You should also keep wood piles and other debris away from your home.

To protect yourself from ticks, it is important to wear long sleeves and pants when working in your yard or walking in areas where ticks are known to be present. You should also use tick repellent on yourself and your pets. If you do find a tick on yourself or your pet, it is important to remove it as quickly as possible, as the longer, it is attached, the greater the risk of disease transmission.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are also a common pest in Vancouver WA during spring. These flying insects can carry diseases such as the West Nile virus and encephalitis, and they can be a real nuisance. The best way to prevent mosquitoes is to eliminate standing water around your home and use mosquito repellents.

To prevent mosquitoes from breeding, it is important to eliminate standing water around your home. This includes watering your garden in the morning or evening to reduce the amount of time that water sits on the surface, and removing containers that hold water, such as old tires or bird baths. To protect yourself from mosquitoes, it is important to use mosquito repellents when spending time outdoors. You can also use screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home. Additionally, some plants like citronella, lemon balm, horsemint, and basil are known to repel mosquitoes.

Wasps

Wasps are also a common pest in the Pacific Northwest. They are attracted to sweet smells and can be a real problem during spring and summer especially if you are enjoying a meal outside. Wasps build nests in eaves, attics, and other sheltered areas. They can be dangerous if they feel threatened, so it’s best to let a professional handle wasp control.

To prevent wasps from building nests on your property, it is important to keep sweet-smelling food and drinks covered and to avoid wearing sweet-smelling perfumes or lotions. You should also keep trash cans covered and dispose of trash regularly. As mentioned before if you do find a wasp nest on your property, it is best to call a professional pest control company to have it removed.

In conclusion, by being aware of the most common spring pests in the Pacific Northwest and taking appropriate measures to control them, homeowners and gardeners can enjoy a pest-free spring. This can include sealing entry points, regular cleaning, using pesticide sprays or bait, or calling in a professional exterminator. Remember that it’s always best to follow the instructions on the label and take precautions when using pesticides and if unsure, please consult a professional.