Waterfront houses are considered to represent the epitome of luxury living. That’s probably true, but what’s also true is that no property is 100% perfect. While you get a stunning view, living in a waterfront house also means having to deal with unwelcome guests every now and then – insects.
Pests common in waterfront and lakeside homes in Maine can range from harmless mayflies and mosquitoes to giant water bugs that make you run for your life and lots of other species in between. You don’t want these usually tiny but annoying creatures to compromise the whole experience of what ought to be a relaxed lifestyle.
Learn more about the most common pests in Maine, especially in homes located near bodies of water such as the Sebago Lake, so that you can deal with them effectively.
Giant Water Bug
Consider the giant water bug your new neighbor when you move to a lakeside house in Maine. The giant water bug (scientific name: Lethocerus americanus) is an aptly name insect commonly found in marshes, ponds, and on the edges of lakes and slow-moving streams.
As is evident by the name, it is considerably large with adult males measuring up to 4 inches long. Sometimes also referred to as ‘water roaches’ and ‘toe biters,’ these insects can fly and linger around your house. They are particularly attracted to lights, so expect to see them near garden and porch lights.
The giant water bugs are generally not dangerous, but they do inflict a very painful bite especially when disturbed. The bite can swell and itch for hours or at times even days. However, their bites are not venomous.
Water roaches usually don’t invade houses. But if they do find a way indoors, that’s probably because they smell food and garbage. Pay attention to proper waste disposal and clean food spills immediately to prevent the water bugs from coming into your house.
Termites
Termites are not as common in Maine. You will hardly find them in cities further north, such as Augusta, Bangor, or Lincoln. But they do exist in pocket areas including southern and coastal locations.
While there are many different types of termites, those found in the state are only the subterranean kind.
Subterranean termites live in colonies. They reproduce prolifically and can be extremely destructive as they feed on wood, which can lead to major structural damages in no time.
Check for small cylindrical tunnels near the foundation of your home. If you spot them, call for an expert pest exterminator in Maine and get a termite treatment right away! You can reach Ant’s Plus through our contact page, here.
Alternatively, if you are buying a waterfront house, hire a termite inspector for a thorough property check. This will save you major costs on repair and insurance down the lane.
Mosquitoes
Maine is somewhat notorious for these pesky biting insects that are really very bloodthirsty. In fact, Maine humorist Tim Sample refers to mosquitoes as the unofficial state ‘bird.’
Many people attribute mosquito bites with minor discomfort – but you shouldn’t underestimate how dangerous these insects can be.
Mosquitoes pose a serious health threat as they can be the transmitters of potentially lethal diseases such as the West Nile virus and the Zika virus.
Though you are likely to notice swarms of mosquitoes all across the state, the problem is ten times more severe for those living near the coastal belt.
Using mosquito repellants, netting your doors and windows, and other similar measures can significantly reduce the risk of being bitten by these annoying creatures. However, since water bodies are a breeding ground for their larvae, you must get your house fumigated by professional pest control services on a regular basis to keep their population in check.
Mayflies
Mayflies aren’t as annoying as mosquitoes – probably because they don’t bite. However, they can still be a huge nuisance especially due to their large numbers and the fact that they love to buzz around anyone who sets foot outside.
This can be the biggest buzzkill (pun intended) every time you step out of your lakeside house to admire the view.
The good news is that getting rid of mayflies is quite easy. These insects are disgusted by certain colored lights. Installing yellowish lights on your porch and other entryways can keep mayflies at bay. Similarly, clean and well-maintained yards that are free of dead organic matter can also help prevent mayflies from hovering over your property.
Drain Flies
Drain flies, also known as moth flies, have small hairy wings and a short, round body. They look pretty much like a cross between houseflies and moths, hence, the name moth flies.
Although they are typically harmless and not known to bite or transmit any diseases, drain flies are invasive in nature. Their larvae are aquatic to semi-terrestrial which means they can easily thrive indoors. Also, they can trigger bronchial asthma in susceptibly individuals.
The most disgusting thing about drain flies is that they usually come from well, drains. You are likely to find them in your bathroom and kitchen drains especially when the place is not used for a certain period of time. Look out for drain flies in your basement too because these insects prefer dark and humid areas.
Pest Free Property – Check!
Living in houses near water means you will be constantly barraged by mosquitoes, giant water bugs, drain flies, and lots of other pests common in waterfront and lakeside homes in Maine.
Nothing should rob you of the comfort of your house, least of all these tiny creatures. If you have got a pest infestation or require professional pest inspection services, get in touch with Ants Plus Pest Control today.
Locally owned and operated, our expert pest exterminator services cover most of Central and Southern Maine including major areas like Sebago Lake, Falmouth, Brunswick, Augusta, Lewiston, Androscoggin County, and Cumberland County.
Give us a call at (207) 319-8324 or drop us an email at antsplus@gmail.com to see how we can help keep your place free from all unwanted creatures.