Sacramento, Roseville, and Rocklin are situated in a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. This climate can support a wide range of insect pests throughout the year. In this outline, we will describe the different types of insect pests that are commonly found in these areas by month, along with their behavior, life cycles, and how they can be controlled.
January Pests:
During January, there are a few insects that you may encounter in your homes, including the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys). These bugs are known for their unpleasant odor and have become a major pest in recent years. They overwinter in buildings, and as the temperatures begin to warm up, they start to become active, which can lead to infestations in homes. To control these pests, it is essential to seal all entry points to your home and use insecticides and traps.
Other pests that may be found in homes during January include:
- Rodents, especially rats. Pay attention for sounds of scratching or rodent droppings, as these are typically the first sign of an infestation.
- Cockroaches, including the German Cockroach (Blattella germanica). These are particularly problematic pests if they get into your property. They are usually prevented with pest control in Sacramento.
Since January is prone to colder weather, rats and cockroaches are attracted to warmth and shelter, and they can cause significant damage to homes and transmit diseases. To control these pests, it is recommended to seal all entry points, eliminate sources of food and water, and use traps and bait stations.
February Pests:
In February, Boxelder Bugs (Boisea trivittata) may start to appear. These insects are common in the area and are attracted to warm surfaces such as buildings. They can enter homes in large numbers and can be a nuisance. Boxelder Bugs can be controlled by sealing all entry points and using insecticides.
Other pests that may be found in homes during February include:
- Termites, including the Western Drywood Termite (Incisitermes minor)
- Ants, including the Argentine Ant (Linepithema humile)
These pests can cause significant damage to homes and buildings, and they can be difficult to control.
To prevent infestations, it is recommended to eliminate sources of moisture, seal entry points, and use bait stations and insecticides as needed.
March Pests:
In March, the weather starts to warm up and spring begins, which means insects and other pests become more active. One of the most common pests during this time of year is the Argentine Ant. These ants are known for their ability to form large colonies and their aggressive behavior towards other ant species. They can enter homes in search of food and water and can be a significant nuisance.
To control Argentine ants, it is recommended to eliminate food and water sources, seal entry points, and use bait stations and insecticides as needed.
Spiders are another common pest found in homes during March. Black Widow Spiders can be particularly dangerous due to their venomous bite. Homeowners should be cautious when handling or coming into contact with spiders and seek medical attention if bitten.
Cockroaches, particularly German Cockroaches, can also be found in homes during March. They are attracted to warmth and shelter and can cause significant damage to homes and transmit diseases. To control cockroaches, it is recommended to seal all entry points, eliminate sources of food and water, and use traps and bait stations.
April Pests:
In April, temperatures continue to rise, and gardens start to bloom. One of the most common pests during this time of year is the Western Flower Thrips. These tiny insects can be a significant nuisance for gardeners as they feed on plants and can cause significant damage to flowers, vegetables, and fruits. To control Western Flower Thrips, it is recommended to use insecticidal soaps and oils, as well as biological control agents such as predatory mites.
Termites, particularly the Western Drywood Termite, can also be found in homes during April. These pests can cause significant damage to homes and buildings and can be difficult to control. To prevent infestations, it is recommended to eliminate sources of moisture, seal entry points, and use bait stations and insecticides as needed.
Argentine Ants may also continue to be a nuisance in homes during April, as they are active throughout the year. Homeowners should take proactive steps to prevent infestations, such as eliminating food and water sources, sealing entry points, and using insecticides and traps as needed.
May Pests:
In May, temperatures start to rise, and gardens are in full bloom. This is also the time when pests become more active, including:
- Aphids, which are tiny insects that feed on plant sap and can cause significant damage to gardens. They can be controlled using insecticidal soaps and oils, as well as natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
- Spotted Lanternflies, which are a new invasive species in California that can cause significant damage to fruit trees, grapevines, and other crops. These pests can be controlled using insecticides and by removing their egg masses from trees.
- Carpenter Ants start to wake up during this time of year. These ants can cause significant damage to homes and buildings as they burrow through wood to create their nests. To control Carpenter Ants, it is recommended to eliminate moisture sources and use bait stations and insecticides as needed.
Garden pests are typically controlled by gardeners, so it is best to contact your lawn care specialist to address those pests. But carpenter ants can be prevented and eliminated by any pest control company in Rocklin.
Finally, House centipedes are another common household pest in the Sacramento, Roseville, and Rocklin areas. They are active year-round but tend to be more common during the warmer months of the year, typically from May through September, when they can be more easily spotted due to increased activity and warmer temperatures.
House centipedes are attracted to moist environments and can often be found in basements, bathrooms, and other areas of the home with high humidity levels. Homeowners can help to prevent house centipedes by reducing moisture levels in the home, sealing up entry points, and using insecticides or natural repellents as needed.
June Pests:
In June, temperatures continue to rise, and pests become more active. Some of the most common pests during this time of year include:
- Mosquitoes, which can be a significant nuisance and can transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus. To control mosquitoes, it is recommended to eliminate sources of standing water, use insect repellent, and install screens on doors and windows.
- Yellow Jackets, which are a type of wasp that can be aggressive and can sting multiple times. They are attracted to sweet and sugary foods and can be controlled using bait stations and insecticides.
- Bed Bugs, which are tiny insects that feed on human blood and can be found in homes, hotels, and other buildings. They can be difficult to control and can cause significant discomfort and anxiety. To control bed bugs, it is recommended to use professional pest control services.
Bed bugs are not “more active” in the literal sense. Instead, they tend to spread through travel, and June is one of the most common travel months of the year as more and more children get out of school. Pay attention to where you are staying and if there are any signs of bedbugs in order to prevent these pests.
July Pests:
July is typically the hottest month of the year in this region, which can lead to an increase in the activity of essentially every pest found in all of the Sacramento, Roseville, and Rocklin region. At this stage of the year, all insects and spiders are active, and – because it get so hot – they can *all* be found in your home at any time.
During July, the Western Conifer Seed Bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis) may start to appear. These bugs are attracted to the warmth of buildings and can enter homes in large numbers. While they are not harmful, they can be a nuisance. To control these pests, it is recommended to seal all entry points and use insecticides and traps.
Some of the most common pests during this time of year include:
- Earwigs, which are small insects that can be found in gardens and around homes. They feed on decaying plant matter and can cause damage to some crops. To control earwigs, it is recommended to eliminate moist hiding places and use insecticides and traps as needed.
- Spider Mites, which are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap and can cause significant damage to gardens and crops. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and can be controlled using insecticidal soaps and oils.
- Argentine Ants, which are a type of invasive ant species that can be found throughout California. They can cause significant damage to homes and gardens and can be difficult to control. Using bait stations and insecticides can help to manage their populations.
- Snakeflies – Snakeflies are fascinating bugs that are very beneficial for the environment, but sometimes scare people when they come indoors. They are long black insects with wings that have an unusual snake-like appearance. They do not bite or harm humans, and they tend to die very easily indoors, but they can scare families that are not expecting them.
Because all pests can be found during this month, thorough and complete pest control is typically necessary to prevent infestations. It is also important that you close windows and doors, as pests can enter even with the best pest control.
August Pests:
August is a month when many pests become very active due to the high temperatures. In August, Fleas (Siphonaptera) may become more active as pets spend more time outside. Fleas can cause irritation and can transmit diseases. To control fleas, it is recommended to use insecticides and flea collars on pets and regularly vacuum and clean your home.
Here are some of the other most common pests that homeowners may encounter during August:
- Mosquitoes, which are a nuisance pest that can also carry diseases such as West Nile virus. They breed in stagnant water and can be controlled by eliminating standing water sources and using mosquito repellents.
- Yellow Jackets, which are a type of wasp that can be aggressive and sting if they feel threatened. They are attracted to sweet foods and drinks and can be controlled by removing food and drink sources and using traps.
- House Flies, which are a common pest that can spread diseases such as salmonella and E. coli. They breed in decaying organic matter and can be controlled using fly baits and fly traps.
Like July, you can expect to find nearly all pests at this time of year, as they will have been active all spring and will now be seeking out shelter from the heat and water that is not available outdoors.
September Pests:
September is the beginning of the fall season, and pest activity tends to slow down a bit. However, there are still some pests that can be a problem during this time:
- Spiders, which are a common pest in many homes. They are beneficial because they eat other insects, but they can be a nuisance if they become too numerous. They can be controlled using sticky traps and vacuuming.
- Boxelder Bugs, which are a type of stink bug that can become a nuisance in the fall when they congregate on homes and other structures in large numbers. They do not cause damage to structures but can release an unpleasant odor when disturbed. They can be controlled using vacuuming and sealing up entry points to homes.
- Carpet Beetles, which are a type of beetle that can damage fabrics and other materials in homes. They feed on natural fibers such as wool and can be controlled by using insecticides and practicing good sanitation measures.
- Fruit Flies, which are tiny insects that are attracted to overripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables. They can be a nuisance in homes and gardens and can be controlled using traps and sanitation measures.
- Thrips, which are tiny insects that feed on plant sap and can cause damage to gardens and crops. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and can be controlled using insecticidal soaps and oils.
- Western Conifer Seed Bugs, which are a type of stink bug that can be a significant nuisance in homes during the late summer and early fall. They do not cause damage to structures but can release an unpleasant odor when disturbed. They can be controlled using vacuuming and sealing up entry points to homes.
September can be a hit or miss month for pest control. Sometimes, the heat continues, leading to more pest invasions. It can also dry out pests, decreasing their numbers. Cooler weather has different effects depending on the type of bug.
October Pests:
In October, Crane Flies (Tipulidae) may start to appear. While these insects are not traditionally seen as pests, they can enter homes and become a nuisance. Crane flies are often mistaken for large mosquitoes, but they do not bite or transmit diseases. To control crane flies, it is recommended to seal any entry points to your home and use insecticides.
As fall continues, temperatures start to drop and many pests become less active. However, there are still some pests that can be a nuisance during this month, including:
- Boxelder Bugs, which can continue to congregate on homes and other structures in large numbers.
- Stink Bugs, which are similar to boxelder bugs and can also release an unpleasant odor when disturbed.
- Ants, which can be a problem throughout the year in many parts of California. They are attracted to food and water sources and can be controlled by practicing good sanitation measures and using baits and insecticides.
If the rains start in October, which has been less common recently in the Greater Sacramento area, it can also affect mosquito and other pest numbers.
November Pests:
November is typically a quieter month in terms of pest activity, as temperatures continue to drop and many pests become less active. However, there are still some pests that homeowners may encounter, including:
- Rats and Mice, which are a common problem during the fall and winter months as they seek warmth and shelter. They can cause damage to homes and transmit diseases, and can be controlled using traps and baits.
- Earwigs, which are a type of insect that can be a nuisance in the fall as they look for warm places to spend the winter. They are attracted to moisture and can be controlled by eliminating moisture sources and using insecticides.
- Spiders, which can continue to be a problem in homes throughout the year. They are beneficial because they eat other insects, but can be a nuisance if they become too numerous. They can be controlled using sticky traps and vacuuming.
Some homeowners prefer to have an interior treatment during this month, because some pests – like spiders – can actually spend the winter hiding in the home waiting for it to warm up in spring.
December Pests:
In December, Cluster Flies (Pollenia rudis) may start to appear. These flies are often found in large numbers inside homes, and they can be a significant nuisance. To control cluster flies, it is recommended to seal all entry points and use insecticides and traps.
Rats and Mice, which can continue to be a problem during the winter months as they seek warmth and shelter, are also more common in our cooler Decembers. A rodent control specialist should be called to get rid of rats and mice, as exclusion will be needed in addition to traps.
Controlling Pests All Year
Because of our semi-arid climate here in Sac, there are very few months that we expect to see fewer pests. In the winter, it does tend to get cool enough that pests start hibernating, but even then you are likely to find rats and other pests that may enter in order to find shelter.
The best way to control these pests is with bimonthly pest control. Adapt Pest Management is available for pest control in Rocklin, Sacramento, Roseville, Granite Bay, Auburn, and throughout the region. If you’re in the market for a new pest control company, please contact us for amazingly low rates and great service.
