Common  Summer Stinging Pests in North Carolina

Common Summer Stinging Pests in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to a variety of stinging pests, including wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants. These pests can turn into a problem during the summer months, as they are more active and likely to sting. In this blog, you will discover the several types of stinging pests found in your area and the ways you can prevent them from stinging you!

Types of Stinging Pests in North Carolina:

  • Wasps: Wasps are a type of stinging insect that can be identified by their thin waist and long, slender wings. They build paper nests in trees, bushes, and under the eaves of buildings.
  • Hornets: Hornets are like wasps but are larger and more aggressive. They build paper nests that are typically found high up in trees or on buildings.
  • Yellow jackets: Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that are easily recognized by their black and yellow striped bodies. They build underground nests and are often found near garbage cans or other food sources.
  • Fire ants: Fire ants are known to sting multiple times if they feel threatened. These ants are usually found in large mounds in open areas like lawns and fields.

Preventing Stings from Stinging Pests:

  • Avoid provoking stinging pests: The best way to prevent stings from stinging pests is to avoid provoking them. Try not to swat at them or disturb their nests.
  • Wear protective clothing: If you are going to be in an area where stinging pests are common, wear protective clothing like long pants and sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and gloves.
  • Keep food and garbage covered: Stinging pests are attracted to food and garbage. To prevent them from being attracted to your home, keep your food and garbage covered.

If you do experience a problem with stinging pests, consider contacting your local pest control company for an effective treatment.

Popular North Carolina Fall Pests

Popular North Carolina Fall Pests

Temperatures are getting cooler and we are starting to spend more time indoors. We aren’t the only ones inside, though. Many pests will appear indoors that weren’t around in the warmer months. Pests found inside are seeking warmer shelter to survive the winter and provide a food source. Let’s break down some common fall pests so you’re better prepared to prevent and treat them.

Spiders

Fall is the time when leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, but it’s also when most spiders begin to mate. You might see more spiders than usual indoors due to them trying to find a match. Outside, you may notice large webs around your home. Spiders are known for being beneficial and can reduce the number of other pests around your home, so be mindful when knocking down their webs outside.

Fire Ants

Fire ants build large mounds in soil and near structural foundations. They can even find their way indoors through cracks in buildings. When they feel threatened or disturbed, they can cause multiple painful stings and can become aggressive. Fall is the best time to treat fire ant mounds as this is when they’re most active.

Rodents

Like us humans, rodents are also in search of food and warmth in the cooler weather. Your home can become a welcoming environment for them. Be sure to rodent-proof your home by sealing gaps or openings around your home’s exterior. Keep outdoor vents covered, repair any holes or tears in window or door screens, and install weatherstripping around doors.

Beetles

You may notice an increase in overwintering pests, such as ladybugs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs. These types of pests often resist traditional treatments with pesticides, so it’s best to take measures around your home to prevent more from coming inside. They’ll gather near the warmest areas of your home, usually on the south and west-facing sides. In these areas, check for any openings or gaps around windows and doors.

If you notice an influx of pests around your home this fall, reach out to your local pest control company who will provide you with a treatment plan that works best for you and your family.

Pin It on Pinterest

Call Now Button