When temperatures are warm, it’s nice to spend some time in your backyard. Unfortunately, you aren’t the only one wanting to enjoy your outdoor space. Backyards are the perfect spot for pests to hide. Knowing which pests invade yards can help you prevent their arrival. We’ve made a list of bugs that you’re likely to find in your backyard.
Ants
Ants are common invaders of picnics and outdoor meals. Many ant species can be found in backyards. These pests are attracted to food crumbs and sugary residues. Your yard also provides them with nesting spots. Ants often create nests in soil, which will look like mounds of dirt. If left alone, their colonies can grow quite large. Another problem is their proximity to your home. If these pests are in need of food or shelter, they can easily march into your house.
Stinging Insects
The buzzing of stinging insects can quickly send you running indoors. Paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets are frequently seen in yards. They build nests in trees and shrubs, under decks and porches, and in eaves. Yellow jackets are known to build nests in the ground. Though stinging insects like to feed on plant nectar, they won’t turn down a sweet treat or a protein-packed snack. Strong, sweet fragrances and moisture can also lead them to your yard.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes also like to hang out in your backyard. Female mosquitoes are on the hunt for a blood meal so they can produce eggs. Their bites can cause itchy, red bumps. These pests thrive near sources of stagnant water. Potted plants, leaky hoses or spigots, kiddie pools, and water left on pool or grill covers can attract them. They also like to hide in dense vegetation and shady spots around your yard.
Ticks
Ticks are arachnids that need a host to survive. There are several species of ticks, and they all have a preferred host including humans and animals. Ticks like areas with tall grass or ground vegetation. Backyards close to wooded areas are more attractive to these pests. Ticks hang out in vegetation, waiting for a host to approach. When a host comes close, these pests latch onto it and begin looking for a place to bite.
Flies
Having to swat at flies isn’t the ideal way to spend your time outside. Your yard may be attractive to these annoying pests for several reasons. Garbage provides flies with food and a breeding spot. Trash cans without secure lids or crumbs and spills from your outdoor meal can cause flies to show up. Flies are also attracted to decaying matter like leaf litter, grass clippings, and pet droppings.
Fleas
Fleas are outdoor pests that can really bug your furry family members. Like ticks, fleas are on the lookout for a host. These pests can make their way into your yard by traveling on wildlife that’s passing through. Fleas hide in overgrown vegetation and tall grass. When animals or people walk by, they hop onto them. From there, they hitch a ride inside where they can quickly multiply and leave you and your pets with itchy bites.
Bugs may find your backyard inviting, but that doesn’t mean you have to share your space with them. Eliminating potential attractants will help to prevent pests from hanging out in your yard. If bugs have taken over your backyard, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.