A Local’s Guide to Seasonal Pest Control | SUNBURST LLC
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Austin’s mild winters and humid spring and summer months make Central Texas a perfect environment for pests to thrive. From ants and roaches to mosquitoes, termites, and scorpions, uninvited guests show up like clockwork — and staying ahead of them is key to keeping your home or business safe.
Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, this guide will help you understand when pests are most active in Austin and how to prepare effectively.
Pest Activity by Season
🌱 Early Spring (March–April): Time to Be Proactive
As temperatures rise, pests emerge from dormancy and begin breeding. This is the perfect window to start preventative treatments and seal off entry points.
🔥 Summer Through Early Fall (May–September): Peak Pest Season
By June or July, pest activity hits full throttle. Mosquitoes, roaches, fire ants, and wasps become major concerns — especially in humid or grassy areas. Lawn treatments and exterior sprays are essential during this time.
🍂 Fall to Winter (October–February): Don't Let Your Guard Down
While some pests slow down, others like rodents, spiders, and cockroaches seek warmth indoors. Maintaining year-round vigilance ensures you don’t get surprise infestations during the cooler months.
Smart Pest Control in Austin: What Works Best?
✔️ Focus on Prevention
Don't wait for a full-blown infestation. Treat strategically and consistently, especially before pests become active.
✔️ Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Opt for eco-conscious strategies that minimize chemical use and prioritize long-term solutions.
✔️ Avoid Spraying Before Rain
Chemicals can wash away and harm surrounding ecosystems — always check the forecast first.
✔️ Encourage Beneficial Insects
Ladybugs, spiders, and certain wasps help control pest populations naturally.
✔️ Eliminate Entry Points
Seal cracks, crevices, and screens to block pests from entering your home or business.
✔️ Keep It Clean
Food scraps, standing water, and yard debris invite unwanted critters — cleanliness is a powerful defense.
Common Pests in Austin (And How to Spot Them)
Here’s a handy cheat sheet for identifying the most common pests in the Austin area:
| Pest | Scientific Name | What to Look For | Where They Hide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Ant | Solenopsis invicta | Reddish ants with painful stings | Outdoor mounds |
| Carpenter Ant | Camponotus spp. | Large, black ants that damage wood | Walls, crawl spaces |
| American Cockroach | Periplaneta americana | Large, brown roaches | Basements, sewers |
| German Cockroach | Blattella germanica | Small, fast-breeding roaches | Kitchens, bathrooms |
| Eastern Subterranean Termite | Reticulitermes flavipes | Mud tubes, wood damage | Moist areas near wood |
| Striped Bark Scorpion | Centruroides vittatus | Tan with dark stripes, stinger | Under rocks, debris |
| Chiggers | Trombiculidae spp. | Red, itchy bites | Grass and brush |
| Crickets, Centipedes, Millipedes | Acheta spp., Chilopoda, Diploda | Creepy crawlers, annoying but not harmful | Indoors during extreme weather |
Need Pest Control You Can Trust in Austin?
At Sunburst, we understand the unique challenges of pest control in Central Texas. Our local expertise, environmentally conscious treatments, and year-round protection plans are tailored to keep your home or property pest-free — no matter the season.
📅 Ready to stay ahead of the pests?
Book a free inspection or get a FREE QUOTE today!