When you think about pest control, you likely don’t think about your lawn playing a part in fending off creepy crawlies. You’re probably much more worried about pests invading your home and causing structural damage or becoming a nuisance to your family, right? But it’s essential to understand why bugs get near your home in the first place.
In addition to pests directly damaging your lawn, your yard can be a literal breeding ground for house-invading pests. And when bugs search for a new habitat to protect themselves from predators or harsh elements, where will they end up? The warmth of your home.
Because of the risks to your landscaping, the structure of your home, and your family’s safety, it’s important to understand the potential pests living in your yard and how to keep your family safe from these unwanted visitors.
What Attracts Pests to My Lawn?
Insects, such as fleas and ticks, look for two things in a place to live: food sources and a protective habitat. Your lawn can provide both of these necessities, with plenty of weeds and other vegetation to munch on.
Overgrown grass and tall weeds can provide these pests easy access to hosts, like your pets and your family. Lawn pests can also land in your yard through carriers like rodents and other wildlife, as well as shoes and clothing. Proper pest control is your lawn’s first line of defense!
What Lawn Pests Should I Look Out For?
Several pests make an appearance in Kansas City yards. Some pests will directly damage your lawn, while others may simply take advantage of the hideout before venturing indoors. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can be attracted to your house when pursuing a new habitat.
Here are some common lawn pests you should watch out for that can keep you from enjoying your yard this spring and summer.
1. Fleas
These small, oval-shaped insects have a hard, brown shell and can rapidly multiply to take over your yard. Did you know? There are more than 300 flea species in the United States! Fleas are most active during warmer weather. Outside, fleas prefer shady, cool, damp areas.
Fleas are known to transmit a number of diseases to people and pets through their itchy bites, as well as cause allergic reactions. If fleas enter your home, they are sure to be unpleasant for people and pets!
2. Ticks
Ticks are parasitic pests that come in various species, shapes, and sizes. While they’re often mistaken for insects, ticks are actually arachnids, in the same family as spiders, mites, and scorpions. Preferring shady, moist environments with higher grass and brush, ticks are known to be very persistent and resilient, with a highly complex life cycle. Ticks wait for a warm-blooded host to pass before latching onto it.
Once they find their hosts, ticks burrow their heads into their host’s skin. Taking precautions and performing tick checks after spending time outdoors is important for humans and pets to avoid the risk of Lyme Disease, Babesiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Powassan virus, or other nasty bacteria.
3. Mosquitos
Mosquitoes are more than just annoying pests. While the average mosquito only weighs about 2.5 milligrams, mosquitoes’ harm far outweighs their size. They represent a health hazard, spreading numerous diseases, creating itchy bumps, and putting people at risk for infections.
When mosquitoes invade your property, they make it known. Mosquitos will fly up and munch on your legs, ankles, and anywhere exposed, making it hard to enjoy your yard during the warm summer months. When mosquitos are present, children are less likely to play outside, and pets are at the mercy of their bite.
Protect Your Family From Pests
It is no secret that bugs inhabit our yards. But these backyard crashers should not be tolerated. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos can quickly ruin any outdoor fun. If not adequately addressed and controlled, these backyard bugs can also become an indoor issue.
The Advantage team wants to keep you and your family (pets included!) safe and comfortable year-round. If you suspect an infestation from fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes, get in touch with Advantage. We’ve provided our customers with the highest level of customer service for over twenty-five years.
Our years of experience will give you the peace of mind you are working with a company that provides the most comprehensive and professional service. Contact our team to keep your yard healthy and your family happy!
