Summer in Southeast Alaska brings a much-needed wave of sunshine, greenery, and long-awaited time outdoors. From backyard barbecues and garden parties to wildlife sightings and weekend home projects, this time of year is all about enjoying nature. But while you’re grilling burgers or planting flowers, pests are silently making themselves at home—sometimes inside your home.
Stay proactive, pest-free, and fully prepared for whatever creepy crawlers the season brings. Here’s what to watch for this summer—and how to stop it.
Squirrels: Cute Until They Move In
You might spot a squirrel leaping from tree to tree or standing on a fence post surveying your yard like a curious neighbor. But squirrels can quickly go from amusing to alarming when they find a way into your attic, crawl space, or shed.
Once inside, squirrels may:
- Chew through insulation, electrical wiring, or roofing materials
- Build nests that attract mites and parasites
- Leave urine and droppings that create a health hazard
- Return season after season if access isn’t sealed
If you hear scratching, scampering, or notice an odd odor in your attic or crawl space, don’t wait. Schedule a wildlife inspection and have any small holes or weak points sealed by a professional.
BBQ Season Brings More Than Just Friends
There’s nothing better than enjoying a cold drink and a grilled meal outside in the fresh Alaskan air. But that same inviting atmosphere draws in all the wrong guests.
Common summer BBQ pests include:
- Wasps, which build nests near decks, grills, and outdoor lights
- Ants, especially sugar ants, which seek out crumbs and spills
- Flies, attracted to meat, trash bins, and pet bowls
- Mosquitoes, which thrive in shaded, moist areas
If you’re hosting a Fourth of July party or weekend cookout, consider scheduling a yard treatment in advance. Pre-event sprays reduce mosquito activity and eliminate nests before they become a problem. The result? A more enjoyable, pest-free outdoor experience.
Carpenter Ants: Alaska’s Hidden Homewreckers
While other parts of the country worry about termites, Southeast Alaska’s primary wood-destroying insect is the carpenter ant. These large, reddish or black ants do not eat wood but excavate it to build their nests, leading to serious structural damage over time.
Signs of carpenter ant activity include:
- Piles of sawdust-like frass near walls or baseboards
- Rustling or faint tapping in walls, especially at night
- Winged ants appearing indoors
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Carpenter ants are drawn to damp or decaying wood, so homes with moisture problems or shaded decks are at greater risk.
To reduce your chances of an infestation, store firewood at least 20 feet from your home and keep gutters clear to prevent moisture buildup. If you suspect carpenter ants, early inspection and treatment can prevent major damage.
Wildlife in the Walls: What You Don’t See Can Hurt You
Southeast Alaska’s natural beauty brings more than just breathtaking views—it also brings wildlife right up to your doorstep. As temperatures rise, mice, rats, squirrels, voles, and birds begin seeking food and shelter in human spaces.
Once they find access, wildlife can:
- Damage insulation and wiring
- Contaminate areas with droppings
- Introduce secondary pests like fleas, ticks, and mites
Rodents can enter through holes as small as a dime. Unprotected soffits, rooflines, foundation gaps, and open vents are common entry points.
Why DIY Isn’t Enough
It’s tempting to set out ant traps or light citronella candles, especially if you’re just seeing a few pests. But surface-level tactics often ignore the root cause—nesting areas, moisture problems, and hidden entry points.
Professional pest control offers:
- Thorough inspections of attics, crawl spaces, and siding
- Safe and targeted treatments based on species and habitat
- Long-term prevention strategies tailored to Southeast Alaska’s climate
- Peace of mind that pests are handled effectively and completely
Whether you’re a homeowner, vacation rental manager, or property investor, working with a local pest control provider is one of the smartest summer maintenance decisions you can make.
Plan Ahead for the 4th of July
The week leading up to Independence Day is one of the busiest times of the summer. Between outdoor celebrations, neighborhood events, and food-heavy gatherings, it’s also prime time for pest activity.
Yard treatments and pre-party inspections are best scheduled at least 3–5 days ahead. This gives products time to work and ensures your guests aren’t sharing space with wasps, ants, or biting insects.
Be proactive—not reactive. Prevention is easier, safer, and more cost-effective than dealing with a full-blown infestation.
Schedule Your Summer Pest Protection Today
Alaska Pest Management is proud to serve the communities of Southeast Alaska with pest control services that work year-round. Our licensed team uses science-backed methods and region-specific strategies to keep your home or business safe from seasonal invaders.
Services include:
- Wasp and hornet nest removal
- Carpenter ant control
- Mosquito and fly yard sprays
- Rodent control and wildlife exclusion
- Real estate inspections
- Moisture control and crawl space sealing
We also offer bundled seasonal plans to keep your property protected from spring through fall.
Spots fill up quickly during summer weekends and holidays. If you’re preparing for guests, planning an outdoor event, or have noticed signs of pests—now is the time to act.
Call Alaska Pest Management at (907) 225-2847 or visit www.alaskapestmanagement.com to book your summer service.
