Pest control essentials for Illinois homeowners

Illinois faces a diverse range of pest challenges as the seasons change, with each bringing unique concerns for homeowners. In spring, the emergence of termites and carpenter bees not only jeopardizes the structural integrity of homes but also increases the need for proactive monitoring and maintenance, such as addressing moisture issues to prevent infestations. The historic synchronization of cicada broods in Illinois, while a natural marvel, introduces an auditory spectacle that also acts as a crucial food source for local wildlife.

As temperatures drop, mice and other rodents seek warmth and sustenance within homes, demanding vigilant practices in sealing potential entry points and managing food storage to prevent disease and property damage. Finally, the persistent risk of Lyme disease due to tick activity reminds residents to maintain preventative measures against these vectors year-round, reinforcing the importance of personal protection while enjoying outdoor activities. Together, these pest management insights highlight the necessity for consistent awareness and preventative actions to protect both personal health and property throughout the year.

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories below were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

Periodical cicadas only make an appearance every 17 years. They surface in the spring when soil temperatures reach 64 degrees. By Mark Nale

NO. 1: TWO NOISY INSECT BROODS WILL EMERGE SIMULTANEOUSLY IN ILLINOIS FOR FIRST TIME IN 200 YEARS

Thomas Jefferson was president the last time Illinois saw these two broods emerge at the same time. | Published March 18, 2024 | Read Full Story by Meredith Howard

Termite damage can be expensive. Treatment options can vary, depending on your situation.

NO. 2: DESTRUCTIVE, FLYING INSECTS TEND TO SWARM ILLINOIS IN SPRING. WATCH OUT FOR THESE 2 TYPES

The damage to your home could prove costly if undetected. | Published April 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Meredith Howard

A bed bug crawls across some cotton-like material in a laboratory. By Matt Barton | UK College of Agriculture

NO. 3: THIS BLOOD-SUCKING PEST MAY STOW AWAY ON YOUR ILLINOIS VACATION. HOW TO SPOT, AVOID THEM

Early this year, an Illinois city was named the worst in the U.S. for this pest. | Published June 14, 2024 | Read Full Story by Meredith Howard

This March 2002 file photo shows a deer tick under a microscope in the entomology lab at the University of Rhode Island in South Kingstown, R.I. By Victoria Arocho

NO. 4: LYME DISEASE — AND TICKS THAT CARRY IT — SPREADING ACROSS THE US. HOW HIGH IS IL’S RISK?

Here’s what to know about cases in the metro-east and across the state. | Published September 24, 2024 | Read Full Story by Madeline Everett

Close up shot of mouse peeking out of the dusty hole behind white furniture and under copper pipe. One paw is raised up like he is greeting. By Dejan Kolar

NO. 5: MICE — AND THEIR FECES — HEAD INSIDE IN COLD WEATHER. HOW TO KEEP PESTS OUT OF IL HOMES

These mitigation tactics can help prevent infestations from rodents, termites and more. | Published November 11, 2024 | Read Full Story by Meredith Howard

This report was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by McClatchy journalists. It was edited by journalists in our News division.