Keep Ladybugs Away in the Summer and Fall
Ladybugs May Be Cute to Look At, But Not When Inside Your Home
Now that we are into summer, ladybug infestations in Belpre, Ohio, and throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley may be common. These insects are a type of beetle that are known for their tiny red bodies. While their red, spotted little bodies may be cute, ladybugs can be a pest in large numbers. This is especially true when you find dozens or hundreds in your home or business. So, if you believe that you may have a ladybug infestation, there are some things you can do.
Ladybugs are most common in the summer and fall, so you may start to see them flying around outdoors. Keeping them outside should be your main concern. This month, we’re going to explain the signs of a ladybug infestation, how to get rid of it, and how to prevent them from coming back.
Signs that Ladybugs Have Invaded Your Home
A few ladybugs here and there may not bother you, but this could be a sign that there is an easy entry point. As HGTV mentions, one ladybug may give off a pheromone to attract more. After coming inside, they could be settled for the long haul.
Once you have an infestation, you’ll be able to tell fairly easily. Ladybugs tend to cluster together. If you find a large amount of ladybugs in one spot, usually in windows or around doors, this is a good indication that there is an infestation. A quick call to an exterminator can help you to remove these pesky insects. We will get into how to take on smaller amounts of ladybugs on your own, as well.
“Will Ladybugs Cause Harm to My Home or Business?”
In most cases, ladybugs do not cause any harm to property or to people. They do feed on different insects, like aphids, protecting plants and gardens. You may be thinking, great! Now I don’t have to worry about losing any crops or flowers. We do want to remind home and business owners that while ladybugs do not cause harm to humans, they can still be a nuisance. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the ladybugs. They can also leave a yellowish excrement stain on carpets, furniture, and other surfaces.
How to Get Rid of Ladybugs this Summer and Fall
As we mentioned, ladybugs can be a hassle once they are inside. There are some ways, however, to get rid of them before reaching out to an exterminator. Healthline recommends sweeping up ladybugs with a broom or a vacuum. Dispose of them far away from your house and be sure to replace the vacuum cleaner bag. Healthline also recommends using light traps or planting mums or lavender around your home. These are natural deterrents that will keep ladybugs at bay. Citrus oil can also help to keep ladybugs away and remove their scent.
If you have tried these options and are still facing a ladybug infestation, reach out to Eastern-Burkholder Exterminators, Inc., in Belpre, Ohio. Our exterminators will help you to determine the entry points and properly treat your home or business to keep these insects away.
Prevent These Pests from Coming Back Next Season
Once you get rid of a current ladybug infestation, it’s important to take preventive measures to keep them from returning. One way to keep ladybugs out is to seal any cracks in and around screens and windows. Use caulking or other sealants to make sure these small cracks are totally sealed. Consider using weather strips under doors to block this as an entry point, too. Check over holes or cracks in siding and vents as well. Ladybugs are small and can fit through even the smallest spaces to get into your warm home or business.
When coming in from outside, remember to shake off any clothing, blankets, furniture, or other items that may have been outside. Ladybugs may catch a ride on your items, making it easy for them to infest your space.
Finally, if you set any ladybug traps, remember to clean them out. Leaving ladybugs in your home while in a trap can allow them to escape and hide out inside. Empty out traps, garbage, and vacuum cleaners outdoors and away from your home or business so they do not go back inside.
Trust Eastern-Burkholder Exterminators for Ladybug Extermination
Ladybugs can be a sweet reminder of warm weather and summer. But like all pests, ladybugs can be difficult to remove. Eastern-Burkholder Exterminators, Inc., has over 30 years of experience in the pest control industry. You can trust our team to properly remove these insects and prevent them from coming back. Visit our showroom in Belpre, Ohio, for at-home pest treatments for complete protection year-round. Ask about our various pest control services for local homes and businesses.
Do you need effective pest control in the Mid-Ohio Valley? Call Eastern-Burkholder Exterminators, Inc., at (740) 423-6887 or toll-free at (800) 510-6871. Follow us on Facebook for updates! We regularly combat ladybug infestations in Belpre, Ohio.
