Living in the South has a lot of perks—mild winters, beautiful scenery, bright summers, but if you’ve ever dealt with ants in your kitchen or mosquitoes in your yard, you know that pests love Southern living just as much as we do.
So, what exactly draws pests to Southern homes? And the more important question: How can pests be stopped?
Why Do Pests Invade Southern Homes?
So, why do pests invade? What attracts insects and other critters into our homes? And what can we do about unwanted pests? Effective pest management begins with understanding why infestations happen. Let’s dive into the specifics of what attracts pests in the South:
1. Warm Weather & High Humidity
The South’s consistently warm temperatures and high humidity levels create an ideal breeding ground for many pests. From cockroaches to termites and mosquitoes, these critters thrive in moisture-rich environments and can remain active almost year-round.
How to stop it:
- Use dehumidifiers in basements, crawlspaces, and other damp areas.
- Make sure your attic and crawlspace are well-ventilated.
- Schedule regular pest inspections, especially during spring and summer when pest activity spikes.
You may not be able to change the weather where you live, but you can control some aspects of your home. Keep your home dry and cool during the spring and summer months, and be sure that your home has good ventilation.
2. Easy Access to Food
We all know that the South has the best food. From grits and fried green tomatoes to the best barbeque in America, we know how to make good food. Unfortunately, many pests have picked up on our good taste.
Ants, flies, rodents, and cockroaches all have one thing in common: they’re always on the hunt for food. Even the tiniest crumbs, spills, or uncovered trash can bring pests marching into your home.
How to stop it:
- Wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly.
- Store pantry items in airtight containers.
- Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Take trash out frequently and keep bins sealed tightly.
- Clean up outdoor eating areas and grills after use.
Simple tasks, like wiping down surfaces and cleaning your floors routinely, can keep scavenging pests out of your home.
3. Standing Water
While your bird bath enhances the look of your front lawn, it may not be the best outdoor decor option. Still water in your yard or around your home creates a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and moisture-seeking pests like carpenter ants and termites.
How to stop it:
- Remove standing water from planters, buckets, toys, and birdbaths.
- Clean and maintain gutters to prevent clogs.
- Repair leaky hoses, faucets, and sprinkler systems.
- Make sure your yard has proper drainage to avoid puddles.
Standing water can appear overnight. During rainstorms, puddles can develop. Be sure to check around your home frequently, especially after rain.
4. Access Points & Hiding Spots
Small cracks, holes, and gaps are open invitations for pests to enter your home. While cluttered areas—inside and outside—give critters cozy places to hide and nest.
How to stop it:
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.
- Install or repair door sweeps and window screens.
- Keep outdoor vegetation trimmed and away from the house.
- Store firewood and yard materials at least 20 feet from your home.
- Declutter garages, attics, and storage areas.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but as soon as you notice a crack or an opening, seal it! Leaving it open for too long can be the beginning of a full-blown pest infestation.
5. Seasonal Shelter
When temperatures drop—even in the South—rodents, spiders, and other pests start looking for a warm, sheltered place to ride out the winter.
How to stop it:
- Inspect your home in the fall for potential entry points.
- Add weatherstripping to doors and windows.
- Consider seasonal pest treatments to prevent winter infestations.
- Keep garages and sheds organized and sealed tight.
Changing seasons bring pests indoors. Keep your home sealed tight to prevent unwanted visitors.
Common Pests in the South
The Southern U.S. is a haven for a variety of pests, thanks to its warm climate and lush environment. Here are some of the most common pests you might encounter:
Let Alder Pest Control Keep Pests in Check
At Alder Pest Control, we know how frustrating it can be to deal with pests in your home—and how important it is to stop infestations before they start. That’s why we offer proactive, personalized pest control plans that are tailored to the unique conditions of Southern living. Whether you’re dealing with ants, roaches, spiders, or rodents, our team has the tools and experience to help you reclaim your home.
Pests are drawn to warmth, moisture, food, and shelter—all things Southern homes naturally provide. But that doesn’t mean you have to live with unwanted guests. A few simple changes and the right pest control plan can make a big difference.
Ready to stop pests before they start? Contact Alder Pest Control today to schedule an inspection!
