Now that summer is well under way, West Florida residents are enjoying all the outdoor activities that warmer weather has to offer. And of course, that means that all the common seasonal pests are enjoying it too! The Florida climate is an insect paradise, and that’s never truer than in peak summer conditions.

There are two seasonal pests that are specific to West Florida, and those are the American cockroach and fire ants. Both are unwelcome house guests, and you’ll want to address them as soon as you see them, otherwise you could end up with a nasty infestation on your hands. Bug Out Service provides West Florida with premium pest control services to make sure that those creepy crawlers stop dead in their tracks – literally.

American Cockroach

When the heat becomes too much to bear, cockroaches will head indoors in search of food, water, and a dark, cool place to hide. With over 300 species of cockroach, it can be difficult to tell them apart. Many unsuspecting homeowners assume that the large species they find in their homes are “palmetto bugs,” but that’s a misnomer. For this area of Florida, typically those large, flying pests are American cockroaches.

This species is reddish-brown in color and can grow as large as 2” in length. As one of the most resilient insects in the world (they’ve been known to survive nuclear explosions), they have developed a specific set of survival tactics – such as the ability to live without their head for up to a week. Even despite your cleanliest efforts, eradicating these pests can be a nightmare. As soon as you notice the signs of a potential infestation­ – such as seeing droppings, egg capsules, or noticing a “musty” smell coming from areas like your kitchen, basement, or laundry room – it’s time to call pest control.

Fire Ants

Fire ants are one of West Florida’s most notorious offenders. They love flat, outdoor, sunny areas, which is why Florida’s climate is their ideal home. However, because they tend to nest near structural foundations or in landscaping, they can easily gain access to your home through HVAC systems and AC units. Once inside, red ant stings can become a serious issue, especially if you have children or pets.

Unlike your normal black ants, these tiny, aggressive creatures can cause very painful, raised welts, and can wreak havoc if you accidentally disturb their home. It’s vital to address the problem as soon as you find them, whether they’re nesting indoors or out. The largest of fire ant colonies can grow to as many as 250,000 workers and will sting unwanted intruders repeatedly. If you find yourself staring down an infestation, it’s time to call the professionals.

Bug Out Service has provided West Florida with quality insect and pest control services for more than 20 years. Our technicians are trained and experienced in eradicating all types of pests, but especially those that are native to Florida. If you’re in need of pest control services, call Bug Out today for a free consultation!