Florida’s rainy season brings more than just afternoon showers; it also invites pests looking for shelter. Here’s what homeowners should watch for and how to keep these unwelcome visitors away.
Palmetto Bugs
Palmetto bugs love moisture and often invade homes after heavy rains flood their outdoor habitats. They hide in damp areas and can spread bacteria, triggering allergies and contaminating food.
Protection: To keep palmetto bugs out, professional pest control using targeted treatments is most effective. For minor issues, seal entry points and apply boric acid powder safely out of reach of pets and children.
Spiders
Spiders seek dry shelter indoors during rainy weather, especially during mating season. Most are harmless, but webs everywhere can be unsettling.
Protection: Regularly remove webs and clutter. Seal cracks and holes, and use peppermint oil spray as a mild repellent. If you can’t get rid of spiders, a professional can apply safe residual treatments.
Ants
Ant colonies often flood during heavy rains, pushing ants indoors in search of dry ground and food sources. They can contaminate food and some species can damage wood structures.
Protection: Seal small entry points around windows, doors, and foundations. Keep food sealed, eliminate moisture sources, and use bait traps for minor infestations. Persistent issues require professional pest control.
Termites
Moisture from rainstorms attracts termites, encouraging them to invade damp wood in homes. Termites cause significant structural damage if left unchecked.
Protection: Schedule professional termite inspections regularly. Repair leaks promptly and avoid wood-to-ground contact around your home’s foundation. Professional treatments are critical at the first signs of infestation.
Fruit Rats
Heavy rains drive fruit rats from trees into homes, where they nest in attics and walls. These rodents can damage structures and electrical wiring and pose health risks through contamination.
Protection: Seal gaps at rooflines and foundations, trim branches near your home, secure garbage, and remove fruit from trees promptly. Use traps for minor problems, but professional exclusion and removal are recommended for infestations
General Pest Protection Tips
To prevent pests during Florida’s rainy season, homeowners should:
- Seal entry points around the home
- Keep interiors clean and dry
- Regularly eliminate standing water outside
- Maintain landscaping by trimming vegetation
- Schedule routine professional pest control services
Staying vigilant after heavy rains and hurricanes and addressing minor pest issues promptly can help you maintain a comfortable, pest-free home .
