San Antonio residents love the city because they feel it’s a nice place to live. But, unfortunately, so do the various insects, rodents, and pest wildlife. So, how do you cope with all these critters?
Here, you’ll discover:
- Which pests are the worst according to different seasons
- How to identify them
- What affects the weather has on infestations
- The reason why these pests seem to be the hardest to eliminate
What Summer Pests Are the Worst in San Antonio?
Ants
Although ants typically swarm in early spring, you’ll notice foragers mainly during the summer months. That’s because they’re getting ready for cooler weather. Also, colonies are at their reproductive peak.
The worst are fire ants.
They build enormous mounds in the middle of yards, fields, and baseball parks. Beware of them, especially right after dawn and just before dusk.
Mosquitoes
Warm summer rains bring mosquitoes to every part of the Gulf Region, including San Antonio. And although not as humid as the coast, there are plenty of wet areas around the city. So, they make excellent breeding sites for this vicious, biting pest.
What Fall Pests Are the Worst in San Antonio?
Wasps
It takes the entire summer for wasps to establish their colonies. But once they do, it can become a challenge to control them during the early fall months.
Inspect the outside of your home thoroughly. If you notice bees or wasps flying in and out of an opening, it may be time to call the exterminator.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs travel with their human hosts, riding along in luggage, clothing bags, and backpacks. When people travel to different countries on summer vacation, they often pick up a few bed bug hitchhikers. And only when they return home do they notice them.
The best thing to do is check for bed bugs before leaving the hotel. Inspect your bags, clothing, and other personal effects. And don’t be afraid to bring it to the attention of the management if you suspect activity!
What Winter Pests Are the Worst in San Antonio?
Mice
Mice like to stay warm, just like humans. So, they tend to make your home a winter stop-over until things warm up again. But if they get too comfortable, you may find yourself with a permanent problem.
You’ll know almost immediately if you have a mouse infestation. Check for these signs around your home:
- Mice droppings look like tiny black footballs with both ends being tapered
- Urine trails are hard to see, except with a black light
- A musty odor may mean you have a rodent infestation
- Clicking and scratching sounds at night are a sign of mice activity
- Mice running around during the day often signifies a heavy infestation
Roof Rats
Roof rats are everywhere in Texas. And if you have fruit or nut trees in your yard, you’ve made your home a perfect target. Also, if your attic vents provide an easy access point for these destructive rodents, it could present an even greater problem.
Roof rat droppings are larger and more squared-off than mice droppings. Nesting areas are typically higher up in attics and roof insulation. In addition, you’ll notice chewed electrical wiring and deep scratch marks on rafters.
What Spring Pests Are the Worst in San Antonio?
Termites
Most termite species in Southern Texas can swarm as early as January. However, you’re most likely to see the greatest activity in early spring. That’s when you’ll notice winged reproductives flying around everywhere.
However, that may be a good thing. Then, you’ll at least know that termites are located in your neighborhood.
Although that doesn’t necessarily mean your home is infested, it may prompt you to call for an inspection. And with termites, it’s always best to take a proactive approach.
Flies
Flies are almost a year-round nuisance in San Antonio due to the warm climate. However, you’ll notice a resurgence of fly activity in early spring. And it typically won’t let up until the first cold snap in winter.
Also, look for fruit flies and gnats.
Although they usually don’t bite, these tiny flying pests can become a severe annoyance for both people and pets.
Key Takeaways
- Fall pests in South Texas are not the same as in the Northern parts of the U.S.
- Look for rodents to show up in your home during the winter months
- Look for flying termites as early as February and March
- The worst summer pests in San Antonio are ants, not mosquitoes