Recent rain is contributing to increased activity among cockroaches, ants, and mosquitoes at houses, according to a local pest-control expert. Jason Campbell, a service coordinator at Truly Nolen Pest Control, said moisture encourages insect colonies to expand.

Reducing Pest Activity

Outdoor cockroach species, including American, Turkestan, and Oriental cockroaches, often feed on decaying vegetation, so residents can make their properties less inviting by clearing leaf litter and other yard debris. Campbell said seeing one cockroach indoors could indicate more are hiding nearby. German cockroaches are especially concerning because they live indoors, reproduce rapidly, and can be difficult to eliminate.

Truly Nolen recommends professional pest-control service every quarter because many treatments break down after approximately 90 to 110 days. Campbell said professional application also allows technicians to target problem areas while using products with the lowest practical toxicity.

People who choose to apply over-the-counter pesticides should carefully follow product labels. Depending on the product, protective equipment may include gloves, long sleeves, long pants, socks, and shoes.

Mosquito Prevention

Residents should also check their properties for standing water. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in water collected in something as small as a bottle cap, and some eggs can survive dry conditions before hatching when rain returns. Campbell specifically warned residents about Aedes aegypti, a mosquito species that can remain active throughout the day.

He recommends using mosquito repellents containing DEET or picaridin and wearing long sleeves and pants to help prevent bites.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.