The Perfect Storm for Spring Pests: Why You’ll See More Bugs in May
Original Publish Date: April 27th, 2017 | Updated: April 9th 2026
During an April downpour, a surplus of bugs in May is probably the last thing on your mind. However, you’re more likely to have more pest problems on your property after April showers than before.
Wet, rainy climates are ideal environments for many insects because moisture supports their survival and growth throughout their life cycle. Some bugs aren’t active while it’s raining, but they’ll be out in full force to take advantage of the weather as soon as it stops.
How April Rain Showers Worsen Problems with Bugs in May & What to Do About It
Standing Water Is a Mosquito Breeding Ground
April showers don’t just bring May flowers; they also cause a spike in visible populations of bugs in May, especially mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are well-adapted to wet climates, so they can fly in the rain, while other insects, like ants, have to seek shelter.
Pesky mosquitoes exclusively lay their eggs in standing water, and they only need an inch-deep puddle to start the reproduction process. More horrifically, those eggs will hatch and mature very quickly, progressing through a complete metamorphosis life cycle. In as little as 24 hours, eggs will hatch into larvae, and in about a week, they’ll progress to the short pupal stage before becoming an imago (fully-grown insect).
As soon as the rain passes, assess the outdoor area around your home. Eliminate any standing water you see, whether pooling in planters, low spots in your yard, or elsewhere. Also, check the gutters and ensure they’re working so the water drains properly the next time it rains.
Termites LOVE Water-Damaged Wood
Termites love any wood, but their absolute favorite snack is the water-damaged variety because it’s softer and easier to chew through.
Termite colonies tend to target the waterlogged, weakened wooden parts of a home. Walk around the perimeter of your house and look for discolored or rotted spots. Pay careful attention to the roofline-skirting fascia, the underside of the decks, and around the foundation.
Rain Encourages Vegetation Growth
If you’re a gardener, you want your plants to grow, but bountiful blooming flowers and vegetables can attract the wrong attention from pests.
A rainy spring ultimately increases the vital food and hydration sources for many summertime garden pests. Consistent showers mean plants are well-watered, which in turn means they produce more foliage, absorb and store more water, and produce more sap and pollen. In addition to beneficial honeybees and butterflies, you may notice more destructive pests like sap-sucking aphids after it rains.
Rainy Seasons Allow Bugs to Grow Larger
Because insects’ usual food sources (plants) are abundant after a shower, you know there’s been a good rainy season when you see more insects that are larger in size and number. Entomologists have noted that warm, moist climates are ideal for insect growth and development.
Ants Evacuate Hills and Seek Dry Shelter
Ground-dwelling ant colonies can handle a light shower without problem, but when it pours, their nests flood, leaving the colony homeless.
Upon the first sign of rain, ants evacuate their nests, either fleeing to the nearest dry, covered shelter or moving to higher ground to build a new nest. Often, a person’s home is the first dry haven ants find. To stop ants from entering your home, seal around doors, windows, and the foundation to eliminate entry points.
Got Pest Problems After Rain Showers?
If you have pest problems on your lawn, in your home, or elsewhere on your property after rain showers, call Vulcan Termite & Pest Control at (205) 663-4200; we’re here to help!
Our team of pest management professionals has proudly devoted the past 40+ years to providing families in Birmingham and nearby communities with practical, lasting, and comprehensive solutions to end pest problems on their property.
Call or contact us online today, and we’ll gladly perform a FREE evaluation and create and implement an effective strategy using our tried-and-true methods so you and your family can enjoy a pest-free home.