As winter fades and spring arrives in Southeast Alaska, so do the pests. The rising temperatures and increased moisture create the perfect conditions for insects and rodents to become active again. While winter may have kept most pests at bay, spring is when many species wake up, breed, and search for food, often making their way into homes and businesses.
So, what pests should you be on the lookout for this time of year? From carpenter ants tunneling into your walls to spiders spinning their webs indoors, here are the top spring pests to prepare for in Southeast Alaska—and how to keep them out!
1. Carpenter Ants: The Real Wood-Destroying Pest
Many people worry about termites, but in Southeast Alaska, carpenter ants are the real problem. These large black ants are wood-destroying pests, meaning they tunnel through wood to create nests—often inside your home!
Signs of Carpenter Ant Activity
- Large black ants crawling around windows, walls, or countertops
- Sawdust-like debris (frass) near wooden structures
- A faint rustling sound inside walls
- Winged ants (swarmers) emerge in spring, looking for new nesting sites
How to Prevent Carpenter Ants
- Seal cracks in your foundation, windows, and siding
- Keep firewood stored away from the house
- Fix moisture issues like leaky pipes and damp wood
- Trim tree branches that touch your home
2. Rodents: Mice & Rats Seek Shelter
As spring arrives, mice and rats become more active, especially as they seek new food sources. These rodents can squeeze into tiny gaps and cause major damage by chewing wires, contaminating food, and spreading disease.
Signs of a Rodent Infestation
- Droppings in pantries, drawers, and along walls
- Gnaw marks on food containers, furniture, or wiring
- Scratching noises in walls or ceilings at night
- Unpleasant odors from hidden nests
How to Keep Rodents Out
- Seal entry points around your home
- Store food in airtight containers
- Keep garbage bins securely closed
- Set traps or call a professional if you spot signs of an infestation
3. Spiders: A Springtime Surge
Spring is spider season, and while most species are harmless, Alaska’s orb-weaving and wolf spiders can become a nuisance. They are beneficial because they eat other insects, but if they start invading your home, it’s time for action.
Signs of a Spider Problem
- Webs appearing in corners, ceilings, and storage areas
- More frequent sightings of spiders indoors
- An increase in other small insects (which attract spiders)
How to Reduce Spiders in Your Home
- Dust and vacuum regularly to remove webs and egg sacs
- Keep basements and attics clutter-free
- Seal cracks and crevices where spiders can enter
- Reduce outdoor lighting, which attracts bugs (and in turn, spiders)
4. Silverfish: The Paper & Fabric Destroyers
Silverfish are moisture-loving pests that often appear in bathrooms, basements, and attics. These pests love eating books, wallpaper, clothing, and cardboard, making them a nightmare for homeowners.
Signs of Silverfish Infestation
- Tiny silver, teardrop-shaped insects in dark areas
- Small holes in books, wallpaper, or fabric
- Finding yellowish stains or shed skins
How to Prevent Silverfish
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture
- Store books and clothing in sealed containers
- Keep paper and cardboard off the floor
5. Red Cross Shield Bugs: The Unwelcome Springtime Visitors
The Red Cross Shield Bug (Elasmostethus cruciatus) is a brightly colored insect that hibernates in sheltered areas during winter and emerges in spring. Though harmless to humans, they can become a major nuisance when they cluster around homes and invade indoor spaces.
Signs of Red Cross Shield Bug Infestations
- Seeing red, green, and black shield-shaped bugs gathering on windows and walls
- Finding bugs inside your home on warm spring days
- Increased activity in outdoor gardens and wooded areas
How to Keep Them Out
- Seal cracks around windows, doors, and siding
- Vacuum up any that get indoors (avoid crushing them—they release a foul odor)
- Install fine-mesh screens on windows and vents
- Keep outdoor lighting to a minimum, as bugs are drawn to bright lights
Spring in Southeast Alaska means increased pest activity, but early prevention can keep your home pest-free. By understanding the pests that emerge in March and taking proactive steps, you can stop infestations before they start.
