The Six Top Pests To Address As The Weather Warms Up

With spring just around the corner, some businesses prepare for increased traffic, and customers begin to go out more because the weather is inviting. The return of the insects is often just an afterthought. However, it's important to prepare for infestations, because insects can damage your products, facilities, and reputation. To protect your business and stay ahead of pest infestations, be on the lookout for these common springtime pests:

1. Citronella Ants

Citronella ants like to nest in soil, logs, inside crawlspaces, and in wood that termites have already damaged. Swarms occur when the winged ants leave their colonies for mating; when they emerge through cracks and crevices, it can be a nuisance in any facility. Although they do not cause structural damage, they can be troublesome for business owners.

2. Termites

Termites put your facility directly at risk by infiltrating the wooden foundations of buildings. Termites don’t just bore holes in the wood – they use saw-toothed jaws to eat fragments of the wood. Wood-colored termite droppings, cracks in your foundation, and discarded wings are all signs of a termite problem.

3. Cockroaches

If you see one cockroach, it is likely there are many more. Although cockroaches won't cause damage to your building, they can damage your reputation if customers see them. Cockroaches can also pose health hazards, and are known to carry pathogens that cause Salmonella and E. coli. Cockroaches multiply quickly, carry diseases, and are immune to the majority of over-the-counter pesticides. Call a professional pest service the second you see a cockroach.

4. Mosquitoes

Due to the swiftness that mosquitoes can populate an area and the many diseases that they carry -- including the recently discovered Zika virus — it's critical to address mosquito pest control quickly. Help your employees and customers feel at ease by eliminating standing water (which is the best breeding ground for mosquitoes) and investing in a professional mosquito control program this spring.

5. Silverfish

Silverfish are arguably the most cringe-worthy pests you could encounter in your facility this spring. With their long bodies, quick movements, and multiple wiggling antennae, silverfish are frightening to look at, but that’s not where the danger lies. Silverfish consume a long list of products found in most buildings, as well as your clothing. They are responsible for damaging property and contaminating food.

6. Ticks

On top of inflicting itchy welts and leading to potential infection, tick bites also put you at risk Lyme disease. The black-legged deer tick can infect anyone it bites. Instead of putting your employees at risk, allow professionals to make your facility and grounds tick-free in 2016.

Whether you’re concerned about the health and safety of your employees, or if you simply want to keep pests out of your living room, we’ve got a solution for your needs. Contact JP Pest Services for a free commercial consultation or residential estimate today.