Pennsylvania may see ticks, ‘termite swarms’ this spring. Here’s what else to expect
Pennsylvania residents should prepare for potential “termite swarms” and increased tick and mosquito activity in the coming months, according to the National Pest Management Association.
The NPMA issued its Spring and Summer 2023 Bug Barometer March 21, and Pennsylvania is in the Northeast and New England zone. The bug barometer is a nationwide seasonal pest forecast.
“A cool start to spring followed by a warm and rainy summer could delay the start of peak pest season,” the NPMA Northeast and New England forecast reads. “However, warm and sunny days following rain in April and May will trigger termite swarms. Warm and wet conditions throughout the summer could lead to increased tick and mosquito activity. Wet summer conditions in the region could also drive ants indoors.”
Here’s more on what to expect in the coming months.
Termite prevention
It’s a good idea to be on the lookout for termites, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. One way you can do this is by examining any exposed wood for hollowed spots.
The EPA offers several more tips on preventing a termite infestation:
Reduce openings and fill any cracks in cement foundations
Fix leaks immediately
Make sure your vents are not blocked
Avoid storing firewood next to your home
How to protect your Pennsylvania home from pests
As spring brings warmer temperatures, it’s a good time to start taking precautions to protect against mosquitoes, ticks, ants and other pests, Dr. Mike Bentley, NPMA executive director, told the Centre Daily Times.
“We’re definitely in that beginning activity period where we can start to see a noticeable increase in pest activity,” Bentley said.
When it comes to mosquitoes, one of the most important things you can do to avoid attracting them is to check your yard for any standing water.
“Mosquitoes only need about a bottle cap of water to complete their development,” Bentley said.
If you live near a wooded area, you should try to create a sort of “buffer zone” between your property and the nature, Bentley continued. Keeping a strip of grass cut very low and free of debris may help to create a less ideal environment for ticks.
To keep ants, cockroaches and mice out of your home, Bentley recommended checking your screens, windows and doors for any weather stripping that may need repairs. Seals need to be in good condition to limit access points for any unwanted guests.
Make sure to keep up on your trash pick up dates, as even a couple weeks of buildup can allow flies to flock to your cans.
More on tick, mosquito precautions
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people check for ticks in the shower after spending time outdoors. The agency reports emergency department visits for tick bites usually peak in May, but start increasing in April.
If you find a tick attached to yourself, the CDC advises to remove it as quickly as possible. You can do this using fine-tipped tweezers, pulling upward and cleaning the bite area.
To prevent mosquito bites, the EPA recommends people remove mosquito habitats if possible. It can be helpful to eliminate standing water and empty and change bird bath water.
