Heres what pests to watch out for after a hurricane or tropical storm.
Getty Images
Pest infestations after a hurricane are not uncommon, especially a few months down the road.
Other pest-related issues also occur after a storm.
Credit:Getty Images
you’re able to protect your home by keeping an eye out for post-hurricane pests.
The tiny adult beetles are reddish-brown and about 1/32-inch long and are attracted to lights.
Other types of beetles, such as bark beetles, also occasionally infest wet areas of a home.
Its not hard to kill adult adults, says Benson.
Vacuum them up, or use an aerosol insecticide.
Springtails
Springtails are another group of insects that feed on moldy materials.
They are black, brown or white, and use their tails to push off and spring when disturbed.
Because of their jumping behavior, theyre often mistaken forfleas.
Youll often see these near exterior walls, windows, chimneys or where pipes enter the building.
If you spot them, youre close to the source of the moisture, says Benson.
Vacuum them up, and dry out any wet areas.
Book Lice
Book lice feed on mold and mildew, typically in damp books and papers.
They are white to pale brown, about 1/8-inch or larger.
Theyre usually cryptic, but if you get mold, populations can explode, says Benson.
They typically are found not far from where the moisture problem is.
Vacuum or sweep them up, and correct the water issue.
Like most other pests, they like piles of papery clutter and cool, damp areas, says Benson.
While they dont bite or carry disease, they can (amazingly!)
live for several years.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoesalways present an issue, but theyre especially problematic after storms.
Also, clean gutters regularly, says Oi.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter antsare attracted to moisture-damaged wood.
They range in size from 1/4 to 5/8-inch long and swarm in late winter to early spring.
Ant bait for fire ants, such as Amdro, can be effective, says Oi.
