Michigan is in the middle of an active pest season for 2022. As temperatures reach record highs, many homeowners are noticing an increase in pests coming indoors. Learn everything you need to know about Michigan’s pests, including how to identify them and what you can do to get rid of them.
Michigan’s Most Common Pests
Michigan is home to a wide range of pests, including:
- Ants
- Stink bugs
- Rodents
- Bed bugs
- Beetles
- Bees and wasps
- Bats
- Birds
- Cockroaches
- Flea and ticks
- Moths
- Spiders
Based on search volume by other homeowners seeking pest removal near me services, one of the biggest pests in Michigan is ticks. This is followed by flies, spiders, and then ants. However, these rates depend on the season and weather.
What is the Bi-Annual Barometer?
Two times a year, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) releases a barometer report. This report looks at weather trends and compares them to prior years. They use this information to predict the types and quantity of bugs in different parts of the United States, including Michigan. In the Great Lakes specifically, they predict that a warm spring with a warm, wet summer will lead to high populations of mosquitoes and ticks. A higher-than-average wet summer is also likely to attract ants indoors.
Some experts also call for a greater than average number of spongy moths. The spongy moth was once referred to as the gypsy moth and was very prominent last summer. The good thing about the spongy moth is that lower Michigan is in its last year of the defoliation cycle, which usually brings lower numbers.
Metro Detroit Mosquito Numbers for 2022
All the conditions are right for an active mosquito season in Michigan. The winter was warm with minimal snow. With a good amount of rain in the spring, Michiganders began noticing swarms of mosquitoes in the backyard by early summer.
The problem with mosquitos is that they’re not just annoying, they can also carry dangerous diseases. At Solidified Pest Control, we recommend a few things to help control mosquitoes this summer:
- Wear a good quality insect repellent with DEET.
- Equip your backyard with plants that naturally repel insects.
- Remove all standing water in your backyard.
- Check that all screens leading outdoors are in good shape.
Mosquitoes can easily ruin a backyard BBQ. Taking steps all summer long can help you prevent large populations of mosquitoes.
Michigan Bed Bug Report
Michigan has always had bed bugs. However, recently, four Michigan cities were listed as the worst for bed bugs in 2022. These include Detroit (4), Grand Rapids (11), Flint (23), and Lansing (48). Bed bugs are problematic because they are hard to get rid of for good. Many people become at risk of bed bugs after traveling or when renting a new property.
Bed bugs thrive on dirty mattresses or carpets. This means that they can stick around between residents. Because hotels don’t change out mattresses in between guests, they can also catch a ride to new homes.
How to Deal with Michigan’s Pests
It’s never too early or too late to pest-proof your home. Sealing cracks and removing moist objects from your property are great ways to prevent pests. However, if they’re already nested inside of your home or attic, you may need a professional to remove them. Following the insect trends in Michigan can also help you know what to look for each season.
Many homeowners in Michigan are surprised to learn that insects don’t fully disappear in the winter months. What is even more surprising is that as summer turns to fall, they don’t just leave. Many go underground and wait to emerge in the spring months. If it’s easy to get into a nearby attic or garage, they may just take up residence there. Then, they’re left to breed and damage your property all winter long.
When Do I Need a Pest Exterminator?
Noticing a few mosquitoes or ants on your property isn’t a cause of concern and doesn’t usually warrant the professional services of an exterminator. However, if you notice signs of an infestation, it’s best to call a professional pest exterminator as soon as possible. The problem with infestations is that they don’t go away on their own.
Waiting too long can lead to other pests moving in. It can also lead to even more damage to your property, which can be expensive to repair. If you’re not sure, it’s usually best to contact a professional for a pest inspection. A qualified pest technician can help you identify signs of pests and areas that need to be better sealed.
If there’s already damage to your home, it’s best to call now. Pests can get into your walls and floors and eat out the electrical wires. They can also remove parts of your home which can make it structurally unsafe.
Common Rodents in Michigan
Michigan also has its fair share of rodents. Rodents don’t often leave on their own once they make their way into a garage or basement.
Pest Removal Services in Michigan
Pests are just a part of living in Michigan or any other state. We share the planet with a lot of pests, and while it’s usually easy to share with them, sometimes they can become a nuisance.
When pests in Michigan become a nuisance, call a pest control company. Solidified Pest Control is one of the top-rated pest control companies in Michigan. Why are we top-rated? Because we care. We provide affordable, customized pest control solutions to Michigan residents. We were born and raised in Michigan, and we look forward to helping residents here feel comfortable. We service all of Metro Detroit, including Redford, Livonia, Troy, Westland, Plymouth, Sterling Heights, Royal Oak, Clawson, Clarkston, Milford, Commerce, and all surrounding areas in Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties. Solidified Pest Control are your Michigan pest control experts.
