As the spring settles in, Georgia returns to its hallmark heat and humidity. In addition to making daily activities sticky and uncomfortable, this climate combo attracts a wide array of pests. Luckily, Great Southern Exterminating Service in Midway has worked with area residents for over 20 years to provide effective pest control and prevention services. 

Here, their expert exterminators list three pests to look out for in the spring.

1. Palmetto Bugs

Palmetto bugs are similar in appearance to cockroaches, but they’re darker and have shorter wings. Although palmetto bugs do not sting or harbor venom, an infestation can be problematic. Every egg sac can carry well over 20 offspring, and each palmetto bug is riddled with bacteria that can spread across your home. You can help prevent infestations by thoroughly cleaning your house and keeping food tightly sealed. If you have an existing infestation, contact an exterminator or pest control service immediately.

2. Mosquitoes

Unlike palmetto bugs, mosquitoes can be dangerous. In addition to their bites—which can be itchy, painful, and become infected—mosquitoes carry a number of diseases, including dengue and West Nile Virus. You can deter this pest by placing mosquito nets over doors and windows and using bug repellent, citronella candles, or essential oils such as lemon and eucalyptus. 

3. Ants

A variety of ants can enter your home during the spring, including carpenter ants, pharaoh ants, crazy ants, and Argentine ants. Carpenter ants can chew through wood and pharaoh ants can carry up to 12 diseases. Crazy ants can eliminate fire ants, but they also spread throughout your home, entering electrical circuits and causing them to short. Massive Argentine ants breed from multiple queens and will feed off nearly any food source. You can keep these pests from entering your home by sealing off entry points and using ant repellent near doors and windows. However, if your infestation is advanced, contact an exterminator as soon as possible.

If you need pest control services for your home, call (912) 876-5010 today and receive a free estimate. To learn more about common household pests, including bed bugs, visit the Great Southern Exterminating Service website.