We love spring! We love that the trees begin to bloom, the grey skies turn sun-kissed, and the promise of summer is just that much closer. What we don’t love about spring? The pests!

Spring pests peak their heads out at the first sight of the sun and warm weather. Just like us, they love the warmth of the outdoors and are eager to make a nice new life for themselves outside.

So what kind of pests are we dealing with in Durham Region this year?

Here are a few to note:

1. Asian Lady Beetles: These “pretty” pests are often mistaken for lady bugs. By looking at them, the difference between an Asian lady beetle and lady bug is that the beetles are slighty larger, and while they still can be bright red with dots, the beetle varies in colour, sometimes to a dull orange. While they are beneficial in the sense that they consume several harmful garden pests, these beetles are still considered a true pest. The reason is that, unlike lady bugs, they gather in large clusters, especially around warm, reflective surfaces like windows. Lady beetles also “bite” by scraping the skin they land on and leave a yellow, foul-smelling liquid on surfaces where they gather.
2. Cluster flies: Cluster flies and the most common fly. They are noisy, and are very dirty. While they don’t pose an immediate risk to anyone directly, they do have the ability to leave behind a terrible mess. Their excrement will stain windowsills and curtains. Also, cluster flies that die during hibernation can and will attract larger beetles which will use the fly carcass as a food source.
3. Western Conifer Seed bugs: Also known as Pine Seed Bugs/Stink Bugs. Although theses pests to not bit or sting, they are still a nuisance to have around. Western Conifer Seed Bugs will release a strong almond-like odour when disturbed. Also, these pests (in large numbers) will cause serious damage to a pine forest by eating seeds.
4. Boxelder Bugs: Again, these pests do not bite or sting, but are still considered a real nuisance. They will gather in large numbers and will cause damage to trees by eating their leaves leaving behind speckled leaves are drab/inedible fruit. These pests will also release a foul odour when disturbed, and can stain furniture and linens.

While there are many more spring pests to note, these 4 are worthy of mentioning at this time. If any of these pests (or others) are causing your spring to not be as cheery as it should be, please give us a call! It’s important to utilize a professional for all of your pest needs so that you can get back to your warm weather and yardwork without any disturbances!