Home Headlines

Pest Problems Rise with Temperatures

Posted: 9:15 PM Aug 9, 2012
Reporter: Chris Buckley

It’s been a busy summer for Statewide Termite & Pest Control. Owner Tim Hinkle says it’s one of the worst pest seasons he’s seen in his 18 years in business.

“A lot of it has to do with the mild winter we had,” Hinkle said. “Things got off to a very early start compared to normal and now with big heat those big numbers are just much more active and they’re getting into people’s houses.”

And apartment buildings and offices.

“It’s kind of everything, a lot of commercial businesses are even having problems right now,” Hinkle said. “You get big buildings with slab foundations and all those bugs can crawl around within the concrete and pop up in the middle of even giant buildings so bugs really don’t discriminate they just do their thing and get inside.”

He says they’re seeing increases in all kinds of pests like ants and spiders and says residents should be on the lookout for any potential problems.

“Just keep an eye out,” Hinkle said. “If you see a problem don’t ignore it, either take care of it yourself or call a professional in as soon as you see something because bug problems don’t just go away by hoping that they will. If you see a big bunch of ants on the outside of your house it might be time to get a treatment because it won’t be long before they’re coming in.”

He says they’re responding to calls all over the region but location does play a factor when it comes to infestations and potential remedies.

“It depends on the severity of the problem and maybe even what neighborhood it’s in,” Hinkle said. “There’s some areas where there’s a lot more fertile ground and a lot more life to be had around those houses. Sometimes one shot will take care of things, sometimes a regular, scheduled program is the most effective way of doing things.”