It's insect invasion season! 🪲🪳
As the weather warms up and humidity rises, a La Niña pattern is setting the stage for a pest-filled summer. But don't let these tiny creatures take over your home! Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure your living space remains insect-free during this challenging season.
The La Niña weather phenomenon brings warm and moist conditions to the North Island and warm, dry weather to the South Island, extending summer's stay. However, the lack of rain in the South Island has led to an early and prolonged arrival of flies and mosquitoes.
Jane McCarrison, a renowned New Zealand pest and garden expert from Kiwicare, warns that these conditions are ideal for breeding not only crawling but also flying insects. And the numbers don't lie! Hardware stores like Mitre 10 and Bunnings have reported a 50% surge in pest product sales compared to last year, indicating a widespread insect problem.
But here's where it gets controversial - while some regions may experience a pest explosion, others might not. McCarrison explains that the North Island is likely to bear the brunt, with warmer sea temperatures and humid decaying matter attracting mosquitoes to stagnant water pools.
So, how can you fortify your home against these uninvited guests?
McCarrison suggests a three-step approach to pest-proofing your home and backyard:
Clean-up: Start by ensuring your rubbish bins have tight-fitting lids. Regularly wipe down bench tops and clean areas where bins are stored. Don't forget to dispose of any bin juice, as it's a breeding ground for insects.
Kill: Use fly sprays or automatic systems to eliminate bugs inside your home. Bug bombs are an effective option, but use them when pets, children, or vulnerable individuals are not present. Set them off during the day, leave the house, and return after a few hours of ventilation.
Protect: Before going on holiday, inspect often-overlooked areas like doorways, eaves, and car wing mirrors for bug accumulation. This is crucial, as insects can thrive in warm, humid conditions. Setting off bug bombs before leaving can help protect your home from pests.
Additionally, consider relocating bins away from the house entrance and keeping backyards free of pet waste to minimize insect attraction.
By following these steps, you can ensure a clean, pest-free home, even during the peak insect-breeding season. And remember, you're not alone in this battle against the bugs!
