NPMA Experts Warn That Wet Spring Conditions Could Fuel a Surge in Pest Activity 

FAIRFAX, Va. (April 7, 2026)— Flowers aren’t the only things blooming this spring. Warm, wet weather creates perfect conditions for the season’s most common and problematic pests, and the board-certified entomologists at the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are urging homeowners to take action before these pests take over. 

Dr. Jim Fredericks, senior vice president of public affairs at NPMA

“Spring marks a major shift in pest behavior. As temperatures rise and moisture increases, pests become more active and begin searching for places to live and reproduce, often inside our homes.” 

 

Here’s what homeowners should be watching for this warm, rainy season: 

  • Ants: When the ground gets saturated during spring rain, ants have nowhere to go but up, and often, that means inside your home. Depending on the species, ants can damage wood structures, contaminate food and surfaces or deliver painful stings. Seal cracks around your foundation, windows and doors, and keep an eye on entry points throughout the season to keep them from getting in.
  • Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes only need half an inch of water to breed, and spring rain filling gutters, flowerpots, birdbaths and forgotten containers around your yard gives them the perfect opportunity to lay eggs. Regularly empty these containers and clean out gutters to limit standing water and protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis.
  • Termites: Termites cause an estimated $6.8 billion in damage each year, and warmer temperatures and spring moisture are exactly what they need to start swarming. Keep an eye out for common signs of termites, including discarded wings, shelter tubes and small, pellet-shaped droppings, to keep your home’s structure safe from these silent destroyers.
  • Ticks: Ticks are becoming active earlier than ever, and warm, moist spring conditions are largely to blame. These tiny parasites can transmit serious illnesses including Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome, so vigilance is key. Protect yourself by conducting a thorough tick check after spending time outdoors.

added Dr. Fredericks-

“Don’t wait for these pests to make themselves known. Taking a few proactive steps now, like contacting a pest control professional, can make a significant difference in keeping your home and family protected from pest risks all season long.” 

For more information on spring pests, prevention tips and to find a qualified pest control professional near you, visit PestWorld.org. 

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About the National Pest Management Association  
The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visitPestWorld.orgor follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube and @PestWorldOfficial onInstagram.