Well, as of six days ago it’s finally summer. But, it really hasn’t felt like it. The deluge of rain and constant cloudy weather is something that bums out most native Floridians. But I know one group that’s really happy about it: the bugs. Few things propagate bug and pest populations like hot, cloudy weather, high humidity, and rain by the bucketful. Basically, any time of year that it’s easier for these bugs to breed is when they become a greater problem. That’s why today, our topic of discussion is going to be some of the sunshine state’s common summer pests.
Common Summer Pests: Overview
If you’re a bug, the only thing that beast early summertime in Florida in late spring. But it’s a very close race. As mentioned above, rainy, humid conditions and high heat, and cloudy days are all some of the insect world’s favorite things. And these pests start to multiply and move out in droves in attempts to get you, your blood, your food, or your home. That’s why we’ll start now with the list, so you can be informed enough to defend your home and health from these biting pests.
The Florida Whitefly
While not usually one of the rogue’s gallery pests of the week down here in Florida, these common summer pests are certainly making a name for themselves. That name, the whitefly, is earned from the white, waxy substance that covers their wings and bodies. This pest is easily mistaken for a small moth, thanks to its shape and size. The real difference, though, is the extensive damage to plants that these pests can cause. But the key is recognizing an infestation before it gets too bad. This insect is known to lay its eggs on the undersides of leaves, making them almost unnoticeable if you’re not looking out for damage to your plants. Just make sure you’re looking out for the spiral pattern that can be found on the underside of leaves. Whiteflies get their nutrients from sucking the sap out of the plant’s leaves.
That’s when you’ll see the damage. Leaves will start falling off the plant when drained of sap. The best thing you can do is act fast. If you see multiple plants dying in a row, check them for this pest. As I said above, they’re hard to spot at a glance.
Chinch bugs
The chinch bug may be small in size, but this common summer pest can do massive damage. Adult chinch bugs are only an eighth of an inch long. But, they feed on the stems of turfgrass. In fact, not only do they suck the grass blades dry, but they inject them with toxins. Chinch bugs have small, black bodies and silver wings, and cause their damage around driveways and sidewalks. So, if you suddenly notice tons of black spots and brown patches, be aware.
If you take good care and regularly feed and water your lawn, and you still have brown patches, you may be looking at chinch bugs. Turfgrass responds quickly to water if it’s thirsty. But if it’s overtaken by chinch bugs, it will not. Naturally warm areas will attract this pest. This includes places like sidewalks and around the foundation of your home. This bug reproduces rapidly. They also have an innate resistance to chemical pesticides. This is very much a problem you’re going to want to get ahead of.
SPIDERS!
Spiders love to lurk in dark, cool places. When summer rolls through, your garage becomes ideal for them! This isn’t an issue for most species. But in the sunshine state, there are two you should be very wary of.
The first, obviously, is the black widow spider. This is one of the most notable and venomous spiders. Black widows have bodies that feature a mostly black, shiny shell with a bright red hourglass pattern underneath. There are other varieties of widow spiders as well, sporting red and brown bodies. Their bite isn’t to be feared so much as respected. The venom of a black widow is about fifteen times stronger than that of a rattlesnake. So, if you are a bit, seek medical attention immediately. Thankfully, they don’t bite often but will do so in self-defense.
The other spider to look out for is the brown recluse. Brown recluse spiders love to hide in dark, sheltered places like barns and basements. Mostly known for its appearance and poisonous bite, this spider gets its name from its color and its “shy nature.” They can go months without eating and are adapted to the hot and dry weather conditions of Florida, making them even more difficult to control. Like most spiders, the brown recluse only bites when they are disturbed or feel threatened.
Common Summer Pests: Bed Bugs/ Bat Bugs
Now, bed bugs are a beg I’d usually say are without season. Basically, any time of year is bedbug time. This is because they’re indoor pests, and indoor pests aren’t beholden to the weather. But, they do tend to become more of an issue in the hot summer months. Especially in a world slowly shaking out of a covid-induced slumber. Travel now that vaccines are rolled out is going to explode, and you’ll need to be more careful about it.
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed off of blood and can be easily transported from hotel to hotel. They hide in bags, clothes, and even on your skin if you’re not vigilant. So if you notice any signs of a bed bug infestation in your home, such as splattered blood or actually seeing one of the pests, it’s time to call in a professional.
And like with any pest infestation, be it one of the bugs mentioned above or no, you’re going to want to get ahead of this before it becomes a real problem. And when you do, try to find a specialist that uses green methods of pest control, as chemical pesticides have been proven time and again to be dangerous to your health, the health of your pets, and the health of your plants.