The Pest Year in a Preston House
Pests follow the seasons. Knowing what is likely in each part of the year helps you spot a problem early — and early is almost always easier and cheaper.
Spring: ants and waking wasps
As the ground warms, black garden ants become active and the first trails find their way in at the back door. Queen wasps that have spent the winter in sheds and lofts start building small, golf-ball-sized nests. Carpet beetles appear on sunny windowsills.
Summer: wasp nests and flying ants
Wasp nests grow quickly through June and July and are at their largest and busiest in August, usually under the eaves or in the loft of a 1930s semi. On warm, humid days, flying ants emerge from under patios all at once.
Autumn: mice move in
As the nights draw in, mice look for somewhere warm. Scratching behind kitchen units and droppings in the garage are typical October calls. Large house spiders are also more visible as the males wander indoors.
Winter: squirrels and rats
In late winter, female grey squirrels look for a warm loft to raise young. Rats, with less food in gardens, push harder towards houses, sheds and garages.
Year-round checks
- Keep gutters, fascias and soffits in good repair
- Store bird food and pet food in sealed containers
- Check the loft a couple of times a year
- Seal gaps around pipes where they enter the house
