As summer slowly transitions into fall, the warm days and cool nights in Olympia, Washington, can bring about various pest issues that homeowners should be aware of. Late summer is the prime time for some pests to become more active, and knowing about them can help you manage or prevent infestations. Here’s a rundown of four common pests you might encounter in Olympia during this time of year and some tips on preventing them.
Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets are among the most common late-summer pests in Olympia. These aggressive wasps reach their top annoyance level as their colonies reach peak size in August and early September. They are attracted to sugary foods and drinks, making your summer barbecues a prime target. Their stings can be painful and cause reactions in people with the allergy.
Prevention Tips: Keep your food and drinks covered when eating outdoors, and dispose of garbage and food waste quickly and thoroughly.
Ants
Many species of ants become more active late in the summer as they prepare for the colder months. Odorous house ants and pavement ants are the most common in Olympia and can be a nuisance if they invade your home in search of food and shelter.
Prevention Tips: Keep your kitchen and other food storage areas clean and free from crumbs and spills, and store food in airtight containers.
Spiders
As the temperatures drop, spiders such as the common house spider and the wolf spider become more noticeable as they seek warmer places to build their webs. While neither of these pests is life-threatening, both can be intimidating and unwanted in your home.
Prevention Tips: Regularly clean and declutter areas where spiders might hide, such as basements and garages, and seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations.
Earwigs
Earwigs are another pest that becomes more active as summer wanes. They are often found in damp, dark areas such as under mulch, in garden beds, or around the perimeter of your home. While they do not harm humans, they can be a nuisance and occasionally damage plants.
Prevention Tips: Reduce the moisture around your home by improving drainage and try to avoid overwatering plants. You should also remove any debris and unnecessary vegetation where earwigs may hide.
Contact Insight Pest Solutions
Dealing with late summer pests in Olympia, Washington, requires a proactive approach to minimize their impact on your home and garden. By understanding which pests are more active during this time and implementing preventive measures, you can enjoy the remainder of the summer without unwanted intrusions. If you or someone you know is struggling with a pest problem, contact Insight Pest Solutions. Our helpful staff and experienced technicians are ready and dedicated to helping you keep your home pest-free.
