Mosquitoes & Termites Are In The Forecast This Spring & Summer

What to expect from mosquitoes this year

While mosquitoes don't hibernate in the traditional sense, they go into a low-energy state called diapause. So, when temperatures warm up, mosquitoes can quickly become active. They don't have to wait on an internal clock, they become active as soon as conditions are favorable.

As we move into spring, forecasters say we can expect lots of rainfall, which is another factor that can increase mosquitoes. Why? Because they breed in standing and stagnant water. Moreover, they only need ¼-inch of water to do so. If the weathermen are correct and we get a lot of rain this year, there will be plenty of mosquitoes around.

What to expect from termites this year

This past winter was marked by heavy storms that resulted in high winds and flooding along the East Coast, including Virginia. The excess moisture from the heavy rainfall, along with water damage to homes, has created ideal conditions for termite activity. Unfortunately, if spring continues to be wet, the problem could worsen.

Mosquito prevention tips

So now that we know what to expect, you’re probably wondering if there is anything you can do to reduce mosquitoes in your yard this year. Absolutely! Here are a few suggestions from our local pest control specialists to eliminate potential mosquito breeding and resting sites:

• Inspect your property and remove objects that capture rainwater.
• Rake leaves and other organic debris to reduce ground moisture.
• Regularly trim vegetation, remove weeds, and mow grass.
• Clean your gutters to remove clogs and make sure downspouts and splash blocks divert water away from the foundation.
• Maintain your swimming pool.
• Declutter your yard.
• Repair dripping outdoor faucets.
• Replace water in bird baths and other water features often.
• Keep outdoor trash cans covered.

By implementing these practical mosquito-prevention tips, you can reduce the mosquito population in your yard. It is crucial to remember that most mosquitoes do not travel more than a few hundred feet throughout their entire lifespan. Yes, you read that correctly. A few "hundred" feet. This means that the mosquitoes present in your yard likely hatched in your yard. Therefore, taking preventive measures can help reduce the mosquito population in your yard.

Termite prevention tips

How do you protect your home (and your wallet) from termites and the damages they cause? While professional termite control is so important in our region, you can also take steps to make your property less appealing to these wood-destroying insects. Here are some tips to help you accomplish just that:

• Inspect your home for mud tubes, termite swarmers, and other signs of termites. Early detection is critical.
• Seal up all potential entry points.
• Fix damp or moisture-prone crawl spaces.
• Address wood-to-soil contact on structures.
• Repairs interior and exterior leaks.
• Replace water-damaged wood inside and outside.
• Remove rotting or dead trees, stumps, and other organic debris from the yard.
• Clean gutters and check and make sure downspouts and splash blocks funnel water away from the foundation.
• Trim vegetation to reduce moisture and humidity.
• Relocate your wood pile so that it is not within proximity to the house, and keep it elevated.

While implementing these termite prevention tips can help deter these pests, it's important to remember that our region is prone to moderate to heavy termite infestations, particularly this year. Therefore, the chances of developing a termite problem are quite high.

How Getem Services helps Hampton Roads property owners from mosquitoes & termites

Here at Getem Services, we provide effective, science-based pest control in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk, as well as throughout Hampton Roads. We can steer you toward the best mosquito control and/or termite control solution for your property. Connect with us today. We're here to help.