Top 5 Summer Pests You Should Watch Out For

Summer in New England means barbecues, beach days, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But it also brings a surge in pest activity as warmer temperatures create the perfect environment for unwanted visitors to thrive—both outside and in your home.

At Lincoln Pest Control, we know that pest problems don’t take a vacation. Here are the top 5 summer pests you should be on the lookout for—and what to do if they decide to make themselves at home.

Ants

Ants are some of the most persistent summer pests. Whether it’s a trail of sugar ants in the kitchen or a colony of carpenter ants damaging your woodwork, these tiny invaders are always on the move when temperatures rise.

Signs to watch for:

Visible trails near food sources
Small piles of dirt near foundations or walls
Hollow-sounding wood (for carpenter ants)

Mosquitoes

They’re more than just annoying—they’re a real health risk. Mosquitoes breed in standing water and can quickly turn your backyard into a buzzing hazard. In addition to itchy bites, they’re known carriers of West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), both of which have had cases in the Northeast.

Prevention tip: Eliminate standing water in birdbaths, planters, and clogged gutters.

Ticks

Ticks love tall grass, wooded areas, and shaded spots where pets and people roam. These tiny pests are active in summer and are known for spreading Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

Check yourself, your kids, and your pets after spending time outdoors—especially around the ankles, behind the knees, and along the hairline.

Wasps & Hornets

No one wants to discover a wasp nest under the eaves or in the kids’ playset. These aggressive stingers can become territorial during summer, especially as they build and protect their nests.

Warning signs:

Increased buzzing around your property
Visible nests under decks, rooflines, or in shrubs

Note: Never try to remove a wasp or hornet nest on your own. It can be dangerous without the proper protective gear and training.

Cockroaches

Summer heat can drive cockroaches indoors in search of food and moisture. They reproduce quickly and are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they’ve settled in.

Clues of a roach problem include:

Droppings that resemble black pepper
Musty odors
Skittering in the kitchen or bathroom at night

Protect Your Home This Summer with Lincoln Pest Control

From preventative treatments to safe, effective removal services, Lincoln Pest Control has been protecting Rhode Island homes and businesses for over 30 years. Our trained professionals know how to identify seasonal threats and create a customized plan to keep your space pest-free—so you can enjoy your summer without worry.

Whether it’s ants in the kitchen or wasps by the porch, we’re here to help.

Call Lincoln Pest Control today for a free estimate or to schedule your summer pest inspection. Let’s stop pests before they stop your summer fun.

Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.