Here Are Some Springtime Insects Your “May Flowers” May Attract
Even through the inconsistency of springtime weather—some days are hot while others are freezing cold—many bugs and insects are starting to buzz about. Now that May is here, cold weather is in large part behind us, and flowers are officially in bloom. With this, there are a variety of springtime insects you may see outside in your yard or garden. However, sometimes these critters like to venture in for a house call to your home as well.
Here is a list of springtime insects that are commonly found in U.S. yards, gardens, and homes:
Asian Lady Beetles
During the winter, many springtime insects (including Asian lady beetles), find shelter in homes that provide ample warmth. Due to their rapid population growth, a large number can be found huddled together. While they are beautiful creatures, they do have a few qualities that are bothersome to humans.
Not all ladybugs are the same. Asian lady beetles, similar in size and color to the commonly found ladybug, emit a foul-like smell if (and when) bothered. Additionally, they bite! This bite isn’t fatal or severe to humans, but rather mysterious and annoying. The easiest solution to an Asian lady beetle infestation is to vacuum them out of your home.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
It’s in the name: these bugs stink! Perhaps innocent in nature, these bugs can stink up your home, clothes, and furniture if they feel even the slightest bit threatened. Typically, these bugs are harmless and are commonly found around most homes. These stink bugs seek a warm shelter during the cold, and start to head outdoors as temperatures rise.
Watch out for your plants! Brown marmorated stink bugs eat plants, and can cause a serious problem if not handled properly. Like the Asian lady beetle, if you vacuum those critters up, your problem will start to go away!
Kudzu Bugs
Common across most of the American South, Kudzu is infamous for its foul odor—which smells like cilantro to most people. Related to boxelder and stink bugs, Kudzu bugs share many of the same characteristics as their insect kin. Be careful not to smoosh these springtime insects: They can emit a kind of stain that’s rough to get out of fabrics. That’s why we recommend that you vacuum or “shoo” them out of your home.
Hoverflies
Similar to bees in their bold yellow and black exterior, hoverflies are harmless in comparison: Hoverflies don’t sting! To make things even more confusing, hoverflies like to pretend they’re bees with their bright coloring and flight patterns. Whether you’re an experienced entomologist or not, it can be all too easy to confuse bees and hoverflies—you’re not alone!
On the plus side, hoverflies are incredible pollinators, and they help contribute to much of your garden’s growth. Lastly, the larvae of these insects will eat other insects that can be harmful to your garden.
Giant Silk Moths
Have you ever wondered what moths really do? As the name suggests, these moths are giant and can grow to be the size of a bat! A beneficial characteristic of these moths is that they often confuse their predators because of their false eyespots. They easily and effortlessly startle small insects and cause them to retreat. Because of this, your garden or yard may be free from harmful insects.
Keep an Eye Out for these Springtime Insects
There are many other kinds of insects that can be found in your home, yard, or garden. Not all are harmful: Most are beneficial to garden growth! If you would like to learn more about these springtime insects, please contact Vulcan Termite and Pest Control!