Spring Insects to Look Out for in the Northeast
As the temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, spring also marks the return of various insects in the Northeast. While some are harmless pollinators, others can be a nuisance or even a threat to health, homes, and gardens. Here are some key insects to watch out for:
1. Carpenter Ants: Carpenter ants become highly active in spring as they search for food and new nesting sites. These large black ants are known for tunneling through wood, which can lead to structural damage in homes. If you notice sawdust-like debris near wooden structures or hear rustling sounds inside walls, you may have an infestation.
Prevention & Treatment: Seal cracks and crevices around your home.
Trim trees and shrubs that touch your house to prevent entry.
Address moisture issues, as damp wood attracts them.
Contact a pest control professional if you suspect an infestation.
2. Termites
Spring is prime swarming season for Eastern subterranean termites, the most common termite species in the Northeast. Swarmers (winged termites) emerge in search of new nesting locations, which often include homes with wood structures.
Signs of Termites: Mud tubes along the foundation of your home.
Hollow-sounding or damaged wood. Discarded wings near windows and doors.
3. Ticks
Ticks, particularly black-legged (deer) ticks, become active once temperatures rise above freezing. These pests can carry Lyme disease, which is prevalent in the Northeast.
Prevention Tips: Wear light-colored clothing when outdoors to spot ticks easily.
Use insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin.
Perform tick checks after spending time in grassy or wooded areas.
Keep grass and brush trimmed around your yard.
4. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes begin breeding in spring as standing water from melted snow and rainfall provides ideal conditions. These pests can carry West Nile virus and other diseases.
Ways to Reduce Mosquito Populations: Remove standing water from gutters, birdbaths, and containers.
Use screens on windows and doors.
Apply insect repellents and wear protective clothing.
Consider professional mosquito control treatments.
5. Stink Bugs
Brown marmorated stink bugs begin emerging from their winter hiding spots in homes and buildings during early spring. These invasive pests do not bite or cause structural damage but can be a nuisance due to their odor.
Prevention: Seal entry points around windows, doors, and vents.
Use a vacuum to remove them if they appear indoors.
Avoid squishing them, as this releases their foul odor.
6. Pavement Ants
Pavement ants become highly active in spring, invading homes in search of food. These small brownish-black ants often nest under sidewalks, driveways, and home foundations.
Prevention & Control: Keep food sealed and clean up crumbs. Seal entry points around the home.
Use bait traps to eliminate colonies.
7. Bees & Wasps
Spring is the time when honeybees, carpenter bees, and wasps start becoming active.
Honeybees are important pollinators but can become a nuisance if they nest near homes.
Carpenter bees bore into wood structures to lay eggs, potentially damaging decks, fences, and siding.
Wasps such as yellow jackets begin building their nests in spring, often under eaves, in trees, or in the ground.
Prevention: Inspect for and remove small nests early. Seal holes in wooden structures to prevent carpenter bees.
Avoid swatting at bees and wasps, as this can provoke them.
Final Thoughts
Spring is a season of renewal, but it also brings a resurgence of pests that can affect homes, health, and outdoor activities. Regular inspections, preventative measures, and professional pest control services can help keep these insects at bay. If you notice signs of an infestation, acting early can prevent bigger issues as summer approaches.