Spring Reminders to Keep Out the Pests

The signs of spring are all around us.The crocuses have begun poking through the dirt. The birds are on the hunt for worms. And in countless ways big and small, the dawn of spring is becoming evident. With the awakening that spring promises, it is typical to not only see wildlife and plants emerge from their overwintering, but also to witness pests quite literally coming out of the woodwork.

Spring Critters All Around Us

Ants, termites, beetles, bees, and rodents often make themselves known during the spring months. We don't need the Farmers Almanac to tell us that the critters are all around us. Sometimes it is due to a need to seek out food and water. Other times it is a desire to head back outside where the temperature is climbing. Here are a few pest control tips to keep these critters from ruining your spring awakening this year.

Mind the Trash

There are few things that call to pests more than an open trash barrel or bag. Keep lids tightly closed. Some homeowners find that putting a lock or heavy object on top can deter raccoons and skunks as well. Put the trash at the curb the morning of the pick up instead of placing it out there overnight.

Tidy Up Low Traffic Areas

Places like your attic, basement, and even the garage can be dumping grounds for seasonal storage items. Keep these areas clean from trash to avoid rodents and other pests from setting up a nest in the garbage. You may want to consider storing seasonal items in plastic locking containers to stop squirrels and other wildlife from getting at it.

Clean Outside Areas Too

The areas right around your foundation should be cleaned up regularly. This means no leaves, debris, or other organic material where a pest can hide. Trim back bushes and shrubs from the foundation. Clean out gutters so that mosquitoes and other pests are not using them as a breeding ground. Keep firewood away from structures including your garage, shed, and home. The closer this stack is to your house, the more likely pests that are living there will find a way into your home.

Take Care in the Kitchen

The kitchen is the top area that needs to be surveyed for leaks, spills, and food messes. Try to maintain a tidy kitchen so that pests are not drawn to crumbs or food items. Practice safe storage with plastic or glass storage containers. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Check under stoves and refrigerators where food can hide from mops and vacuums.

Seal Cracks and Openings

Most homes have a multitude of access points including windows, doors, vents, utility pipes, soffits, chimney openings and the occasional hole in the foundation. Take a close look regularly at these places were pests can find their way into your home. Seal up the areas to avoid an infestation.What steps do you take each spring to get ready for potential pests? Let us know in the comments below. If you find that pests are invading, call Pest-End Exterminators now at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321.