Does Climate Change Affect Insect Activity?
Does it seem like you’re seeing more ants, spiders, and cockroaches than usual this summer? It isn’t just your imagination! Santa Clarita always experiences heightened pest activity during the hot summer months, but rising global temperatures have resulted in record-breaking pest infestations worldwide, and our little city is no exception.
When an insect’s environment is disrupted by shifting temperatures, it often results in population increases or reductions. Fortunately, the Santa Clarita pest control technicians at No Bugs are here to protect your family and property from the local insect populations.
No Bugs Termite, and Pest Control, Inc is ready to serve you and your home this summer to protect you, your family, and your pets against dangerous and scary bugs. Contact our Santa Clarita pest experts at (661) 294-0206 to schedule a free consultation today!
What Is Climate Change?
The concept of climate change is a surprisingly controversial political issue. Without getting into touchy subjects (this is still a pest control blog), a simple definition of climate change is a long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns.
Since the 1800s, humans have been participating in activities that may improve our way of life (manufacturing, power, deforestation, transportation, etc.) but ultimately contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. According to scientists, the greatest cause of global climate change is burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, which produce heat-trapping gases.
But How Does Climate Change Affect Bugs?
As poikilotherms, insects cannot regulate and maintain a stable internal body temperature. They rely on external heat sources and their natural environment to grow and thrive.
As the planet continues to heat up, the rising temperatures will trigger spikes in insect growth (some are getting bigger, others are getting smaller), development (they’re growing faster), physiological activity, metabolic rates, and reproduction. As they burn more energy, insects need to eat more to survive, which has resulted in notable annual crop losses.
Climate change has also impacted global rainfall patterns, leading to intense periods of drought and flooding. Unfortunately, the stress of SoCal drought patterns is confusing plants into decreasing their natural chemical defense mechanisms, leaving them vulnerable to insects. This is bad news for farmers, horticulturalists, and….everyone, really.
Also, don’t be surprised when local news programs discuss weird insects moving in from other parts of the country. Bug-friendly temperatures are encouraging insects to expand their territories and even migrate to new areas – including SCV. But this doesn’t apply to every insect. Some species are struggling to survive in these hotter temperatures, further unbalancing their ecosystems.
There is a lot of science (and conflicting opinions) surrounding climate change, but we hope this explanation is a digestible introduction to what we’re experiencing here in Southern California. If you’re struggling with bugs on your property, please call our technicians at (661) 294-0206. We can protect your property against bugs that enjoy the heat!
3 Bugs That Come Out in Warm Weather
As we progress into summer and your thermometer keeps clocking in the 90s, expect to see certain bugs trying to make their way into your home.
1. Bees
Bees love the heat, sun, and everything else associated with summer. These pinstriped pollinators come out during the day to gather nectar before returning home to their hive in the cool(ish) evening hours. Bees get tired and struggle to fly when temperatures drop around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, something we rarely experience in Santa Clarita.
2. Ants
Ants are a year-round menace and pretty resistant to temperature changes. But they prefer the heat, which is why we see more ants during summer. Ants will enter homes and businesses to search for water, especially during dry periods. Because of this, you may see them in your bathrooms or other humid parts of the house.
3. Spiders
You’re more likely to see spiders in summer specifically because these cold-blooded critters dislike intense heat or cold and like to shelter in houses that provide safety and water. It also helps that the bugs they prey on are more plentiful in warmer months.
How To Keep Bugs Out Of Your House This Summer?
Tired of fighting bugs in your home? You can guard against pesky intruders by following these recommendations:
- Check your window screens for tears and seal any cracks.
- Make sure you have weather stripping under all doors leading outside.
- Repair any and all leaky, dripping, or busted pipes.
- Keep doors closed if you don’t have a screen.
- Hire No Bugs Termite and Pest Control Inc.!
Hiring The Right Pest Control Company For You
Determining the right pest control company for you and your family is important because it involves the use of chemicals on your property. No Bugs Termite and Pest Control Inc. prefers an organic approach to pest control that keeps your loved ones (including your fur babies) safe. Out Mint X+ utilizes fewer synthetic pesticides and more organic essential oils, so you can have peace of mind that your property is being protected with products natural to the environment.
This summer, don’t worry about bugs when someone else can! Keep everyone you love safe by hiring an effective pest control company that cares.
Call No Bugs Termite and Pest Control Inc. today at (661) 294-0206 to speak with our bug experts and begin your experience with our team!
