Pests: Pressure Predictions for 2020

A movie came out last month on Amazon titled “The Aeronauts.” It is a movie loosely based on the real life story of James Glaisher, who, in 1862, flew higher into the atmosphere than any previous hot air balloon had flown, almost costing him his life, but confirming his theories on the science he termed "meteorology."

It's hard to believe now, but the science of (mostly) accurate weather predictions didn't emerge until about 150 years ago. Though the barometer and thermometer were a couple hundred years old, no one believed that readings from them could be used to prophesy environmental conditions any more accurately than reading a crystal ball.

Yet, today we use barometer readings and other meteorological tools to forecast lots of things that aren't the weather. Fires, tides, expected airplane turbulence, and yes… insect problems.

As the Barometer Rises

It seems like every year more sophisticated tools are developed to help in the fight against invasive insect species. Just a few years ago, the Department of Agriculture worked with the National Weather Service to create more sensitive Doppler radars that could detect insects that migrated merely by floating on air! And Bayer now has a tool for farmers to predict underground insect activity.

But more importantly for you, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) releases predictions several times a year for its Bug Barometer. Their entomologists examine recent weather reports across the United States and analyze precipitation patterns to determine the weather’s effect on the pest pressure index.

So What's In Store for Us?

According to the NPMA’s chief entomologist, the two main weather factors that affect bug populations are temperature and rainfall. As you may have noticed, both our “fall” and winter have been warmer and wetter than usual.

As a result, mosquitoes, cockroaches, ants and termites have remained active through the times of year when they are normally a bit more dormant. Since insects are cold blooded, they would ordinarily spend these months burrowed deep or dying off. But since things have been warmer and wetter, not only have they remained active - they've been breeding.

So, Floridians should expect to see a lot more mosquitoes this season and more ant hills in our yards and inside if the rains keep up. Keep a vigilant eye out for roaches in your kitchen and pantry. And be aware of the signs of a termite infestation. Florida is the number one state for subterranean termite damage.

What Can I Do?

The good news is you’re not alone. Good News Pest Solutions has spent 30 years dealing with the differences in pest pressure on the Gulf Coast of Florida and we’ve got the answer.

Our most popular insect solution takes care of all of the typical creepy crawlies that invade Florida homes and yards. Our Green Perimeter Plus protects your abode year round, utilizing the most advanced, risk-reduced treatments that are safe for your family and pets.

For real peace of mind, a lot of our customers upgrade to our Term Assure 365. It combines Perimeter Plus with world class termite protection, and a $1-million termite damage warranty. Not even your homeowners insurance can cover that!   

If you’d like to speak to one of our highly trained technicians about scheduling your appointment now, before the pests really get out of control, call us today!