Summer Pests to Watch Out For & Prevention Tips

Summer is here which means unfortunately, more pest activity. Warm temperatures provide the perfect breeding conditions for many insects and rodents, which is why July and August are the busiest times for pest problems.

At Hillbans Pest Control, we want to help you stay one step ahead. Here’s our guide to the most common summer pests how to spot them, and most importantly how to prevent them.

Ants 🐜

 Ants are particularly active in summer as they search for food, especially sweet items.

Signs: Lines of ants, small piles of soil near entry points, or ant activity in your kitchen.

Prevention Tips:

• Wipe down worktops to remove crumbs and spills.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Seal cracks in floors, doors, and walls where ants may enter.
• Empty bins regularly and keep lids closed tightly.

Wasps 🐝

Wasps become more aggressive during mid to late summer as their food supply goes down.

Signs: Frequent wasp activity around roof eaves, sheds, or garden furniture. Active wasp nests you will see wasps going in and out of specific area. Buzzing sounds or visible nests in lofts or trees.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep bins sealed and away from entrances.
• Cover sugary drinks and food when eating outside.
• Inspect sheds, lofts, and garages for nests.
• Avoid leaving fallen fruit to rot in the garden.
• Once you spot a nest contact us the professionals straight away as it will only get bigger!

Flies 🪰

Flies spread bacteria and are attracted to food, waste, and warm indoor areas.

Signs: Increased fly activity near windows, bins, or fruit bowls. Buzzing or visible clusters of small flies.

Prevention Tips:

• Use fly screens on windows and doors.
• Keep bins covered and empty them regularly.
• Don’t leave food out especially fruits, meats, and pet food.
• Clean drains, as organic build-up can attract drain flies.

Mosquitoes 🦟

Mosquitoes and midges are drawn to standing water and are more active around dawn and dusk.

Signs: Itchy bites on skin, especially near ankles and arms. Visible insects near water sources.

Prevention Tips:

• Empty buckets, birdbaths, and plant trays that collect water in your garden.
• Keep windows shut at night or use mosquito nets/screens.
• Install outdoor lighting that doesn’t attract insects (yellow-toned bulbs).

Fleas 🐾

Fleas often enter homes via pets but can also survive in carpets, upholstery, and bedding.

Signs: Pets scratching more than usual, small dark specks in fur, or bites on your ankles.

Prevention Tips:

• Treat pets regularly with vet-approved flea treatments.
• Wash pet bedding weekly at high temperatures.
• Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture thoroughly and frequently.
• Contact us if you see high volumes of fleas around your home for a professional spray.

Bed Bugs 🛏️

Summer holidays mean more hotel stays, B&B visits, and nights away. Unfortunately, this also means an increased risk of bringing home bed bugs in your luggage or clothing.

Signs:

• Itchy bites, usually in lines or clusters.
• Tiny dark spots (droppings) or shed skins on bedding or mattress seams.

Prevention Tips:

• When travelling, inspect hotel beds for signs of bed bugs before unpacking.
• Keep luggage off the bed and use luggage racks where possible.
• Wash and dry clothes on a hot cycle after returning from a trip.
• Vacuum and inspect suitcases thoroughly before storing them.

If you suspect an infestation:
Don’t delay! Bed bugs spread quickly and are extremely difficult to eradicate without professional treatment. Hillbans Pest Control offers safe, discreet chemical treatments to fully eliminate bed bugs from your home.

Rats & Mice 🐀

Rodents seek shelter, food, and nesting areas even in summer. Sheds, compost bins, and outdoor storage are common hiding spots.

Signs: Droppings, gnaw marks, or scurrying sounds at night.

Prevention Tips:

• Block entry holes around pipes, vents, and wall gaps.
• Store food including pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
• Keep gardens tidy and avoid leaving rubbish or clutter.
• Remove water sources and secure outdoor bins with tight lids.

Dealing with a Pest Problem? Contact us today!

Even with great prevention, pests can still find a way in. If you notice signs of an infestation, act fast. DIY measures may only offer short-term relief.

At Hillbans Pest Control Ltd, we offer safe, effective, and discreet pest control across the Isle of Wight. Whether it’s wasps, rodents, or insects we’ve got the experience and knowledge to protect your home.

📞 How To Contact Us?

👉 Call us on 01983 406999
👉 Email info@hillbanspestcontrol.co.uk

We can keep your home or businesses pest-free all summer long!