Ants, Termites And Mosquitoes, Oh My

Spring feels like a fresh start for your home. But unfortunately, that includes the bugs that have been patiently waiting all winter to move in.

If you’re a homeowner, spring isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about defending your space.

Here’s what to watch for (and what to do) before things get out of hand.

Ants

Ants are usually the first to show up, and they waste no time. As soon as temperatures rise and the ground softens, they start foraging.

What to know: Killing the ants you see doesn’t solve the problem. The colony is the real issue, and they’re sending out scouts nonstop.

What to do:

• Wipe down counters and sweep regularly
• Store food in sealed containers
• Seal cracks around windows, doors and baseboards

(MORE: What Does It Mean To ‘Burp’ Your House?)

Termites

Spring is peak swarm season for termites. These winged insects are looking to start new colonies, and if they pick your home, you likely won’t notice until damage is already done.

What to know: Termites don’t just visit, they move in and stay. Early detection can save you thousands of dollars. Signs can be subtle: discarded wings, frass (looks like sawdust) or wood that sounds hollow when tapped.

What to do:

• Reduce moisture around your home (fix leaks, clean gutters)
• Keep wood and mulch away from your foundation
• Schedule a professional inspection

Wasps

In spring, wasps are just getting started. You might see small nests forming under eaves, in corners or around outdoor structures. Ignore it now, and you could be dealing with a much larger problem in a few weeks.

What to know: Wasps get more territorial as their nests grow. Early action is key.

What to do:

• Check around your home regularly for early nest formation
• Knock down very small nests carefully (or call a pro if you’re unsure)
• Keep trash cans sealed and avoid leaving food outside

(MORE: An Ode To Spring’s Best National Parks)

Ticks

Ticks don’t buzz or swarm; they just wait. You’ll find them in tall grass, brush and even your backyard, ready to latch on to pets or people who pass by.

What to know: Ticks don’t need much space to thrive. Even a well-kept yard can still have them. It's not just about the "ick factor." They can carry diseases, making prevention especially important.

What to do:

• Keep grass short and trim back vegetation
• Wear long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas
• Use insect repellent when spending time outdoors

Spring is about enjoying your home again, but a little extra awareness goes a long way. Stay ahead of the bugs, and you'll avoid having new roommates by summer.

Sneak Peek At Summer

Hotter months bring a whole new cast of characters. Mosquitoes, flies and cockroaches will be lining up next. Stay tuned 👀

weather.com lead editor Jenn Jordan explores how weather and climate weave through our daily lives, shape our routines and leave lasting impacts on our communities.