Maryland Household Pests That Flourish During (Spring) Rainy Season
As the weather turns wet, it’s not only human beings who seek shelter—most pests take advantage of these moisture and humidity condition. Rainy season pests can cause serious problems for Maryland homeowners, from ticks/mosquitoes breeding in standing water to ants/cockroaches invading kitchens in search of dry shelters. Understanding these pests’ behavior during the rainy season and taking a few steps for seasonal pest control and management can help protect your home.
Why Wet/Rainy Weather Attracts Pests?
Wet/Rainy season creates a perfect environment for most pests. These moisture and humidity conditions create ideal breeding conditions, with excess water driving insects indoors to avoid these wet weather conditions outside. Here are the most common pests during the rainy season:
Mosquitoes
Ticks/Mosquitoes are notorious for breeding in standing water. Rainy weather creates puddles, clogged gutters, and other sources of stagnant water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. Once the water settles, it only takes a few days for mosquitoes to hatch and become a major problem.
Mosquitoes’ prevention tips:
- Removal of standing water from containers, buckets, and plant saucers
- Routine cleaning of gutters to prevent water buildup.
- You may consider using mosquito dunks/repellant granular in birdbaths or water features to prevent larvae from developing.
Ants
Ants invade homes during the rainy season in search of dry shelter. Rain floods their nests, forcing them to relocate to higher ground—and that often means your kitchen or pantry. Certain species, like Argentine/Carpenter ants and odorous house ants, are particularly active during wet weather.
Ants’ prevention tips:
- Sealing cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations.
- Keeping food in airtight containers and clean up spills immediately.
- Trimming vegetation and branches that touch your home, as they can act as bridges for ants to enter.
Termites
Termites are another pest that thrives in damp environments. Subterranean termites, in particular, are attracted to moisture, making wet weather ideal for their activity. They often swarm during the rainy season, searching for new locations to build their colonies.
Termites’ prevention tips:
- Ensure your home’s foundation and wood structures are dry and well-maintained.
- Fix any leaks in plumbing or roofing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Keep mulch and wood debris away from the foundation of your home.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are drawn to moisture, making them particularly active during rainy seasons. If your home has areas with high humidity or water leaks, it can become an attractive shelter for cockroaches looking to escape the rain.
Cockroaches’ prevention tips:
- Fixing any leaks under sinks or in the bathroom to reduce moisture levels.
- Keeping your kitchen clean and store food in sealed containers.
- Sealing cracks and gaps around baseboards, doors, and windows.
Centipedes
Centipedes love damp environments, making them common visitors during the rainy season. These pests are attracted to moisture and are often found in basements, bathrooms, or other areas with high humidity. While centipedes are generally harmless to humans, their appearance can be alarming, and their presence indicates that your home has too much moisture.
Centipedes’ prevention tips:
- Using dehumidifiers in areas like basements or bathrooms to keep the humidity low.
- Fixing leaks and ensure proper ventilation in high-moisture areas.
- Sealing entry points to prevent centipedes from getting inside.
How to Protect Your Home During the Wet Season
To keep pests from invading your home during wet weather, focus on keeping your house dry and sealing any potential entry points. Here are some additional steps you can take:
Maintain Proper Drainage system
Always ensure that water flows away from your home’s foundation by keeping gutters clean and making sure downspouts direct water away from the house. Poor drainage can lead to water pooling around your foundation, attracting pests like termites and ants.
Fully seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps where pests can enter. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal windows, doors, and foundation cracks. Make sure that doors and windows close tightly to keep out moisture and pests.
Monitor/Control Indoor Humidity
Most pests are drawn to moist environments-Use dehumidifiers in areas like basements, attics, and bathrooms to keep humidity levels low. Repair any leaky faucets or pipes, as even a small amount of moisture can attract pests like cockroaches and centipedes.
Recommend a schedule a Professional Pest Inspection
If you’re dealing with persistent pest problems or want to take preventive measures before the wet season hits, consider getting RH Pest Management for your home. RH Pest Management is here to help you with your wet season pest’s problem or whatever other pest issue is ailing you and your home. For professional help with seasonal pest control, reach out today for a free consultation.