It isn’t too hard to notice the incredible heat we have been forced to feel during the 2012 Summer season. It may bring us discomfort, but you may have also noticed that insects are all amidst and quite comfortable in the hot air.
According to the NPMA (National Pest Management Association), Ants, Fleas, Ticks and Earwigs and Black Widow are among some of the bugs that are making a strong showing this year.
Why is this happening? Insects are cold-blooded. Their body temperatures are set by the temperature in their environment. In warmer weather, insects become more active and larvae grow at a faster rate. Insects also have increased reproduction cycles and the ability to move faster in warmer temperatures.
The drought hasn’t helped much either, it has allowed for less standing water outdoors and so possibly less breeding areas for mosquitoes in areas without rain, but it has sent moisture loving insects indoors to find water.
As this season turns into the next, it is hard to say right now if the abundance of insects will taper off, or become higher in numbers. Until future frost brings some relief, the NPMA recommends avoiding areas where insects are known to congregate. If you are venturing outdoors, the NPMA recommends wearing some sort of insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin. If the pests take up residence in your home, the NPMA suggests contacting a licensed pest professional to treat your home.
