Summer Pest Guide: What to Watch Out for in Missouri

Summer in Missouri means warm weather, backyard barbecues, and long sunny days — but it also brings a spike in pest activity. As temperatures rise, so does the number of unwanted guests trying to invade your home and yard. From stinging insects to sneaky invaders, here’s what you need to watch out for this summer in the Show-Me State.

🐜 1. Ants

Ants are among the most common summer pests in Missouri. You’ll often spot them marching across your kitchen countertops or sneaking into your pantry. Carpenter ants can be especially damaging, as they burrow into wood and weaken your home’s structure.

Prevention Tip: Keep food sealed, clean up spills promptly, and seal cracks around doors and windows.

🐝 2. Wasps and Hornets

Stinging insects like yellow jackets, paper wasps, and hornets become more aggressive in the heat. Their nests are often found under eaves, in trees, or even in the ground, posing a risk to anyone spending time outdoors.

Warning: If you find a nest, don’t try to remove it yourself — professional removal is safest and most effective.

🦟 3. Mosquitoes

With Missouri’s humid climate, mosquitoes thrive near standing water — birdbaths, clogged gutters, or even flower pots. Besides itchy bites, they can carry diseases like West Nile virus and Zika.

Prevention Tip: Eliminate standing water around your property and consider professional mosquito control treatments for long-term relief.

🪳 4. Cockroaches

Cockroaches love the heat and humidity of Missouri summers. These pests are more than just unpleasant — they can spread bacteria and trigger allergies, especially in children.

Prevention Tip: Keep kitchens clean, take out trash regularly, and fix any leaks that could provide moisture.

🕷️ 5. Spiders

Most spiders in Missouri are harmless, but two species to watch out for in summer are the Brown Recluse and Black Widow. These spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, or garages and can deliver dangerous bites.

Prevention Tip: Declutter storage areas, wear gloves when moving boxes, and inspect shoes or clothing before use.

🐭 6. Rodents

Though more active in fall and winter, rodents like mice and rats can still be a summer nuisance, especially if they find easy access to food or shelter. They’re also known to carry diseases and chew through wires or insulation.

Watch For: Droppings, gnaw marks, and strange noises in walls or attics.

🦗 7. Crickets and Other Invaders

Missouri summers also bring out crickets, centipedes, millipedes, and earwigs — all of which may try to sneak inside your home to escape the heat.

Prevention Tip: Reduce moisture around your foundation and make sure your home is sealed tightly.

Don’t Let Pests Ruin Your Summer

Dealing with pests doesn’t have to be part of your summer plans. At GorillaGuard, we offer expert inspections, targeted treatments, and year-round pest control solutions to keep your home and yard safe.

✅ What We Offer:

• Eco-friendly, family-safe solutions

• Fast, reliable service

• Local experts who understand Missouri’s unique pest challenges

Schedule Your Summer Pest Inspection Today!

Don’t wait for a full-blown infestation. Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation inspection and find out how we can help you enjoy a pest-free summer.

📞 417.430.8000

🌐 gorillaguardpest.com

📍 Serving Springfield, Missouri and surrounding metro area