The term "water bugs" is a general reference that usually refers to cockroaches or palmetto bugs. These bugs, though not exclusive, are attracted to water sources. Areas inside or near entrances with standing water can attract unwanted pest guests. Know the common bugs and how to solve pest issues to prevent your home from these water loving pests.
Silverfish
Warm and moist spaces attract silverfish. Common areas include basements and crawlspaces where they enter through foundation cracks or gaps. Silverfish love to eat many kitchen stored goods such as sugar, flour, and rolled oats.
TIP: Transfer cardboard and paper container goods into airtight containers.
Out of other water-loving bugs, silverfish do the most damage destroying your belongings. Items such as books and magazines are at the greatest risk. Exposed natural fabrics such as silk, linen, and cotton can also be silverfish food. If you see a silverfish in any area of your bedroom, such as dresser, move your clothes to a safer location right away.
If silverfish are present in your home, water damage is most likely the underlying issue. Silverfish enter in existing holes that are generally caused by water damage. If you suspect you have water damage or are in need of moisture control in your home, contact us for a free estimate.
Cockroach
An adaptable creepy crawler, cockroaches need no more than water and shelter to thrive. They can go up to one month without food if there is a water source around. Once in your home, cockroaches reproduce rapidly.
NOT SO FUN FACT: Cockroaches can survive after being submerged under water for half an hour.
Leftover food and crumbs are well-known cockroach attractions, but so is moisture. A leaky pipe under the bathroom sink or wet bathmat on the floor are moisture havens and will entice cockroaches to camp out in your home.
You can help prevent cockroaches by ensuring your entrances are sealed properly, your bathroom floors and mats are kept dry, and all pipes are tight, with no leaking. If you are still seeing unwanted visitors, contact us for our pest control services.
Carpenter Ants
Stagnant water, sticks and wood attract carpenter ants. If you notice a few ants in your home around the base boards or cabinets, watch out after the next heavy rainfall. You may notice a large ant army emerge attracted by increased water. Carpenter ants can be harmful to the very foundation of your home, eating away and destroying any wood in their path. If you are experiencing a carpenter ant infestation, contact us. We are here to help!
Mosquitoes
It is no secret that water attracts mosquitoes. If you live in Eastern North Carolina, you have certainly encountered mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carry diseases such as West Nile and Zika viruses which can be deadly to humans. Stagnant water is their breading ground. As impossible as it may seem, try and eliminate any standing water surrounding your home. If you would like your home and surrounding yard to be treated for mosquitos, contact the mosquito squad, a partner of May Exterminating.
Rain and Storms
Insects can sense the atmospheric pressure differences present right before a storm. This can cause them to borrow or pull out of their usual homes. This explains why you may notice an increase in bugs and insects right before or after a storm as they seek shelter in your home.
Some flying insects such as butterflies and bees cannot fly when it is raining. The weight of the water weighs them down too much. They seek shelter under leaves and vegetation. Others, like the mosquito, love rain.
If you are worried about moisture in your home, contact our moisture control services for a free inspection and estimate.
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