Why Do Pests Thrive in Littleton's Climate?

Why Are Pests Drawn to Littleton, CO?

The naturally semi-arid climate of Littleton should be a pest deterrent, but residents understand the reality of regular pest pressure. The suburban landscape and density creates small micro-climates and communities where pests are able to thrive despite the altitude and dry environment.

Pests such as ticks and mosquitoes are drawn to areas where damp soil, humidity, and shaded areas reduce the drying effects of the sun. Ticks nest within leftover leaf litter, fall and springtime brush, and areas where dense vegetation create an easy opportunity to quest for a host. Tall grasses contribute to tick questing as it tends to be the perfect height for children and pets, while mosquitoes rest between the blades of tall grasses to avoid the hot summer sun. Mosquitoes breed and lay eggs in overlooked areas of Littleton homes such as flowerpot saucers, gutters, or areas near clogged downspouts. Once established, mosquitoes can lay between 100 and 300 eggs at once which quickly turns a small mosquito problem into a heavy mosquito presence. For ticks, local wildlife can transfer and carry nymphs and adult ticks into yards even if the home doesn’t border an area of dense vegetation.

Ants and spiders are drawn to homes in Littleton as well. Spiders follow their prey into homes and build webs in areas around porch lights, unmoved furniture, and quiet areas where they can catch prey undisturbed. Black widows are known to build webs in water meters while wolf spiders are known to enter homes at the ground level and actively hunt their prey during the night. Ants come indoors to seek out moisture and food as the sun reduces their access to moisture and as rainy days flood their colonies. Once an ant scent trail has been established, it can be difficult to reduce the effects of future visits.

Reduce Pest Activity at Your Littleton Home

Bundling outdoor pest control services is the best bet for Littleton residents. These services allow you to reduce and control multiple pests on a recurring basis, and receive a tailored plan depending on the specific pest season. 

For those seeking DIY options, there are a few steps you can take. Ensure that leaf litter and brush are properly disposed of to reduce areas where ticks can rest around your yard. Wear long clothing and gloves when handling leaf litter to reduce access to open skin. Conduct ticks checks after spending time outdoors and take a shower within 2 hours of hiking or walking within areas of dense vegetation or brush. For mosquitoes, dump standing water after rainfall and clear gutters and downspouts of debris. Trim overgrown brush and grass to reduce the areas where mosquitoes rest throughout the day.

Ensure the areas around your home are sealed to reduce spider and ant activity indoors. Seal trash bins, reduce outdoor pet food, and clean areas around furniture where spiders typically build their webs. 

For more pest control tips and insights, head to our dedicated West Denver blog.

Professional Pest Control Treatments in Littleton, CO

Mosquito Squad Plus offers multiple comprehensive pest control treatments for Littleton residents. Our Barrier Treatment Plus plan is designed to reduce and control the presence of mosquitoes by up to 85-90% for up to 21 days. This potent insecticide is used to repel pests and target areas where pest harborage is common or likely. Our Home and Yard package strengthens this plan through a combination of liquid and granular treatments, ant-mound drenching methods, and EPA-registered products that will target areas where ants, ticks, and other pests are commonly found.

To learn more about the pest control treatments offered, check out our service page.

For Reliable Pest Control in Littleton, CO Near You

Juggling more than one pest around your Littleton home? Call Mosquito Squad Plus of West Denver at (303) 997-0166 or contact us online for a free quote.