Residents of Shreveport have to put up with a lot of pests. They include insects, rodents, and stinging wasps. But the good news is that you can take back your home with a little patience and planning.
Here, you’ll discover:
- Which pests are the worst in Shreveport according to the seasons
- How to identify insects, rodents, and stinging pests
- What affects the weather has on insect populations
- The reasons these pests are so hard to get rid of around your home
What Summer Pests Are the Worst in Shreveport?
Ants
Most ant species typically swarm during the spring. However, you’ll notice them more during the summer months when they forage for food. Also, they usually reach their highest activity level during warm weather.
The Pharaoh ant is probably the most active of all the species in Louisiana. That’s because it only takes about 28 days to reach maturity. So, that means you’re going to see a lot more Pharaoh ants than another kind of pest during the summer months.
You can identify Pharaoh ants this way:
- Tiny, only about two to four millimeters in length
- Bright red, except for their dark abdomen
- They forage in large numbers
- Look for Pharaoh ants on kitchen counters, baseboards, and electrical outlets
Fire ants are also a huge problem in the area. Look for large ant mounds with several entry holes. Also, they are more prone to invading large open fields than small, confined areas.
What Fall Pests Are the Worst in Shreveport?
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on human and animal blood. Although they aren’t disease carriers, they create large welts when they bite you. Some people suffer from psychological trauma due to repeated attacks while trying to sleep.
Bed bugs are dependent on humans for survival. As a result, they get carried from one infested location to another on their selected hosts. In addition, they travel with luggage, clothing bags, and used furniture items.
The best way to avoid bed bugs is to be vigilant while traveling. Before entering a hotel room for the first time, it’s always good to perform a quick inspection.
Check for these signs:
- Black blotches on sheets
- Live activity along mattress seams
- Discarded skin from molted instars
- Rusty or reddish stains from crushed bed bugs
What Winter Pests Are the Worst in Shreveport?
Mice
Mice invade indoor spaces during the winter months. If left unchecked, their nests can grow into massive infestations. That’s why it’s vital to detect mice in your home before things get out of hand.
Here are some of the warning signs that you have a mouse problem:
- Mouse droppings that are black and tapered at both ends
- Urine trails that are detected by using a black light
- A foul, musty odor
- Signs of live activity
- Strange noises like clicking, scratching, and squeaking sounds
Roof Rats
Roof rats are a common pest throughout Louisiana. They climb trees and buildings to get away from predators, and they typically enter through vents in attics and roof areas.
Signs of a roof rat infestation include:
- Large, black droppings that are squared off at one end
- Scratch marks near entrance holes
- Chewed electrical wiring
- Live activity during the day means you have a severe problem
What Spring Pests Are the Worst in Shreveport?
Termites
Subterranean termites typically swarm during the spring months. However, some species, such as Formosan termites, can start as early as February.
During this period, winged reproductives create huge swarms while looking for a mate. Once paired up, both the male and female shed their wings.
This increased activity can be a positive thing. It lets you know if you have a possible infestation. And it also tells you the species that are prevalent near your home.
However, it’s never a good idea to tackle termite infestations alone. You should seek help from a qualified pest control expert immediately if you suspect a problem. Or at least consider scheduling an inspection, just to make sure.
Flies
Flies are typically a year-round pest in the Shreveport area. However, they tend to make their presence felt the most in spring, and they can continue to annoy you into late fall.
Fruit flies and gnats are also a concern in late spring. Still, they reach their peak during the summer season, and they seem to disappear for only a few months during the winter.
Key Takeaways
- Unfortunately, bed bugs are a year-round pest
- Look for signs of rodents during the winter months
- Formosan termites create huge swarms in early spring
- The worst summer pests in Shreveport are ants