The cold is definitely bothersome. Especially when you can’t go out and fish on the nearby lake or just simply enjoy sulking under the sun with longer days. Each season has its downside. Now that winter is about to end in Minnesota and in the other states in the US, it is another season to prepare for.
Spring is coming, and so are pests. You’ve prepared for the winter, and now it is yet another time to leave the cold and welcome another season. Everyone is very familiar with “Spring Cleaning.” It is a fancy term for cleaning up the bulk you’ve stocked during the winter.
The warming temperatures and melting snow signal the return of blooming flowers, chirping birds, and longer days. And you should not deprioritize preparing for spring as putting your preparations on hold will leave you with more problems in the next seasons.
There are lots of ways to prepare for spring. As mentioned before, Spring cleaning is top of mind. When it comes to spring cleaning, pest control is its common denominator. Let’s say you can do all your spring cleaning by yourselves, but Pest Control is something you can’t put on the back burner. Certain professionals around the area can do the job for you excellently this spring and year-round.
At Abra Kadabra Environmental Services, we understand how crucial it is to stay ahead of these emerging nuisances before they become full-blown infestations.
Many pests, from insects to rodents, take advantage of the thawing landscape to seek food, water, and shelter.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most common pests that emerge in Minnesota as the snow melts and what you can do to prevent them from invading your home or business.
1. Ants
Ants are among the first pests to appear as the snow recedes. Species like carpenter ants and pavement ants become active in the spring, searching for food and moisture. Carpenter ants, in particular, pose a significant threat as they tunnel through damp or decaying wood, potentially compromising the structural integrity of buildings.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and foundations.
- Keep food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs immediately.
- Address moisture issues by repairing leaks and improving drainage around your property.
2. Mosquitoes
With standing water from melting snow and spring rains, mosquitoes breed rapidly. By late spring, these biting pests can become a serious nuisance, especially around lakes, wetlands, and wooded areas, which are common landscapes in Minnesota.
Prevention Tips:
- Remove standing water from gutters, birdbaths, and other containers.
- Keep grass and vegetation trimmed to reduce mosquito resting areas.
- Consider professional mosquito treatments to reduce populations around your property.
3. Ticks
Ticks, especially deer ticks (black-legged ticks), reappear in spring and bring the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. They thrive in wooded and grassy areas, making them a concern for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Prevention Tips:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when venturing into wooded areas.
- Use EPA-approved tick repellents.
- Keep your yard well-maintained by removing leaf litter and tall grasses where ticks like to hide.
4. Mice and Rats
Rodents such as mice and rats that sought shelter indoors during the winter may emerge searching for food. However, they may decide to stay if they find ample food inside, leading to potential health risks and property damage.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal entry points as small as a dime to prevent rodents from sneaking in.
- Store pet food and pantry items in secure, rodent-proof containers.
- Regularly inspect and clean storage areas like garages, sheds, and basements.
5. Spiders
While many spiders remain hidden during the winter, they become more noticeable in spring as they search for prey. Species like the common house spider and wolf spider may find their way into basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
Prevention Tips:
- Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots.
- Seal gaps in windows, doors, and walls.
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to make the environment less inviting.
6. Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are a common spring nuisance in Minnesota, especially around homes with boxelder or maple trees. These insects overwinter in wall voids and attics and emerge when temperatures rise.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior.
- Trim tree branches that touch the house.
- Use a vacuum to remove boxelder bugs if they enter your home.
7. Wasps and Hornets
Wasps and hornets start constructing their nests in the spring, often under eaves, decks, or trees. While they are beneficial pollinators, they can become aggressive if their nests are disturbed.
Prevention Tips:
- Inspect your property early for small nests and remove them before they grow.
- Keep food and sugary drinks covered when outside.
- Hire professionals to safely remove large or dangerous nests.
8. Termites
While not as common as in southern states, termites exist in Minnesota. The melting snow and spring showers create the damp conditions that termites love, increasing their activity and potential for damage.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep woodpiles away from the foundation of your home.
- Address water leaks and moisture issues promptly.
- Schedule annual termite inspections.
If you deal with these pests, Abra Kadabra has a wide range of services that tailor-fit your needs.
How Abra Kadabra Can Protect Your Property in Spring
Spring pest problems can escalate quickly if not addressed early. Abra Kadabra Environmental Services offers professional pest control solutions tailored to Minnesota’s unique pest challenges. Our team provides eco-friendly, effective treatments to keep your home or business pest-free throughout the season.
Don’t let spring pests take over your property. Contact Abra Kadabra Environmental Services today to schedule an inspection and protect your home from unwelcome guests.
Wrapping It Up
Spring cleaning is the first step to opening the new season with fresher beginnings. It will be a ton of hard work and preparation, but it’s all worth it. If you’ve reached the end of this article, you are one step closer to having a healthier and safer home or property. Some people may think pest control can be bought in the supermarket, but it’s not. Pest Control is handled by people who are trained to handle pests. Investing in it will save you lots of money in the long run.
