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Emerging Pest Trends in Texas: What You Need to Know As Summer is Here

It’s now summer in Texas, which means one thing: extreme heat. Temperatures are reaching triple digits in many parts of the state. You’re likely looking for shade and cooler temperatures. And guess what: so are pests.

Insects are looking to keep cool as the heat increases. You may be noticing ants in your kitchen or mosquitoes in your yard. You may see the same bugs every summer, but there are some trends you need to be aware of. The world is constantly changing, which means pests may come and go as well.

Last year, stinging insects were very common in Texas. Many homeowners complained about wasps and bees in their yards. Fleas were also prevalent last year.

While you can expect to see these pests in your yard this year as well, you should also look for leafcutter ants and formosan termites. Leafcutter ants typically thrive in tropical rainforests but can also be found in other warm, humid environments like Texas. They cut leaves and other plant material, which they do not consume directly. Instead, they use the plant material to cultivate fungus in their underground nests. These ants contribute to plant decomposition and soil aeration. However, they can also be agricultural pests, as they can defoliate plants and crops.

Formosan termites are a species of subterranean termite that are known for their aggressive and destructive behavior. They are native to southern China and Taiwan but have spread to many other parts of the world, including Texas and other states. They are often referred to as “super termites” because of their large colonies that can have millions of termites. Formosan termites are known for their rapid consumption of wood, often causing significant structural damage to buildings.

Expect to see many mosquitoes and crane flies this year as well. Crane flies are giant mosquito-looking bugs with long legs and slender bodies. Unlike mosquitoes, they do not bite and are generally harmless. They tend to come around lights at night. Crane flies are generally brown, gray, or yellow in color.

Worried about insect infestations this summer? Contact Stride Pest Control for your pest control needs.

Invasive Species

Invasive species of insects have detrimental effects on the Texas landscape. They may destroy native trees and even eradicate entire species. Invasive species share two key traits. They are non-native to an ecosystem. In addition, their introduction is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment, or human health.

Invasive species are often introduced into ecosystems through human activities. This can involve plants intentionally introduced as ornamentals or insects accidentally transported in imported goods, such as wood packaging materials. These species thrive because they can grow in favorable environments without the natural predators, competitors, and diseases that usually keep their populations in check.

Some invasive species to be aware of in Texas include the following:

  • Emerald ash borer. The emerald ash borer is a destructive beetle native to Asia. It was first detected in Texas in 2016 in Harrison County. It has since spread to other counties, including Bowie, Cooke, Dallas, Morris, Parker, Camp, Cass, Denton, Marion, Rusk, Tarrant, Titus, and Wise. The emerald ash borer has killed millions of ash trees across the United States.
  • Oak wilt. Oak wilt is among the deadliest tree diseases in the U.S. It was detected in Texas in 1961 and has killed millions of trees across 76 counties. It is caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, which disrupts the water-conducting system in oaks. In late and early spring, native sap beetles spread the fungus to new trees.
  • Laurel wilt and the redbay ambrosia beetle. The redbay ambrosia beetle, which spreads laurel wilt, has killed more than half a billion trees. This bug has severely impacted redbays, sassafras, and the avocado industry in the southeastern United States. Laurel wilt is a vascular fungal pathogen that can kill trees in less than a month. It was first reported in Texas in 2015 and has since spread across eastern Texas.

Summer Pests to Be Aware Of

In Texas, summer brings a variety of pests that can cause problems for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most common summer pests in Texas:

  • Mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are known for their itchy bites and ability to transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and dengue fever. To prevent their bites, use insect repellent, remove standing water, and install screens on windows and doors.
  • Fire ants. These are red, aggressive ants that deliver painful stings, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. Treat mounds with insecticide, keep lawns well-maintained, and avoid disturbing mounds.
  • Ticks. These parasites are tiny but can cause a lot of damage. They can bite and transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. To prevent bites, wear long sleeves and pants in wooded areas, use tick repellents, and check for ticks after outdoor activities.
  • Fleas. These are small, jumping insects that infest pets such as cats and dogs. They can also get into homes, causing itchy bites to humans. You can keep them out of your home by regularly treating pets with flea preventatives, vacuuming frequently, and washing pet bedding.
  • Spiders. Texas is home to many species of spiders. The most dangerous ones are the venomous brown recluse and black widow, which can cause serious reactions. Keep homes and garages free of clutter and be sure to seal cracks and crevices.
  • Scorpions. These predatory arachnids have a painful sting. They can be found in dry, desert-like areas. Seal entry points in homes, reduce outdoor debris, and use insecticide barriers to keep them out of your home.
  • Bees and wasps. These stinging insects can be aggressive, especially when protecting their nests. To avoid getting stung, avoid disturbing nests, wear protective clothing, and use insecticides.

Contact Us Today

The Texas heat brings out huge numbers of pests. Make sure you know what to expect in and out of your home this summer.

While you can do your part to protect yourself from pests, Stride Pest Control will be there when you need more than DIY remedies. We’ll come out as quickly as possible to service your home or yard. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more. Fill out the online form or call (512) 777-1339 (Austin) or (512) 254-8185 (Round Rock).