Thanks to Austin’s subtropical climate, fighting household pests here can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Even if you try your hardest to fortify your home against infestations, it’s not uncommon to see ants, roaches, rodents and other tiny invaders parading across your kitchen floors and counters. Since pests typically travel in large colonies and often carry dangerous bacteria, being proactive about pest control is important. To help you get your battle plan on track this season, we’re identifying three of the most common pests in the Austin area and sharing tips on how to keep them out of your kitchen for good.
Roaches
Because they settle wherever food is easily available, roaches are the quintessential kitchen pests. If you see one occasionally, a lot more can be hiding somewhere in your kitchen and even throughout your home. To find out whether you’re dealing with a few strays or a full-blown infestation, look behind your refrigerator, under the sink, and inside appliances for signs of trouble. If you find live roaches or a large amount of droppings, it’s time to call in the pros. If not, start taking precautions to prevent an infestation in the future. Putting away food immediately after eating, vacuuming up crumbs and keeping leftovers in tightly closed containers are all steps in the right direction.
Rodents
Droppings in the pantry, on top of counters and around food are sure signs that you have a rodent problem. Small infestations can usually be handled with traps, but don’t wait to call an expert if you find a lot of droppings, urine trails and nests. Large rodent infestations are emotionally stressful and difficult to control on your own. To prevent the same issue in the future, be sure to secure every point of entry throughout your home, including vents, doors, attic, windows and the crawl space.
Ants
Like roaches, ants go wherever there’s food, but not all ants behave the same way. For example, carpenter ants dig nests in moist or decaying wood, while fire ants migrate indoors in search of food and water. Known for their painful sting, fire ants stand out as one of the worst species to deal with at home. To check if fire ants are a problem on your property, follow these tips from Texas A&M University. While common ant species have unique traits, the answer to keeping most of them out is the same. Blocking holes that lead to the outside, cleaning up spilled food and storing waste in tied plastic bags should do the trick.
Want to learn more about professional pest control in Austin? Contact ABC Home & Commercial Services today to find out how we can help you run a pest-free home.