It only takes a few minutes outside on a humid New Orleans evening to realize the bugs are out in full force.
Entomologist Joe Martin says if people are noticing itching or irritation lately, there are a few likely culprits.
“I’d be willing to bet it’s one of three insects,” Martin said. “And in some cases, maybe all three.”
One of the biggest nuisances this time of year? Formosan termites.
Martin says while the insects don’t necessarily bite, they can still irritate exposed skin.
“They land on people and leave behind irritation that can feel similar to bites,” he said.
Then, of course, there are mosquitoes.
Recent rain and soggy conditions have left standing water scattered across the region making perfect breeding grounds for the pests.
“Mosquitoes don’t need much water at all,” Martin said. “Even a bottle cap full can create a problem.”
Fleas are also especially active during muggy weather conditions and can quickly become a problem for both pets and homeowners.
Martin says treatment for all three pests starts outside the home.
For termites, he recommends identifying where activity is occurring.
“Look for mud tunnels, holes, or signs near trees and structures,” he said. “A proper perimeter treatment can help.”
For mosquitoes, eliminating standing water is critical.
And when it comes to fleas, Martin says homeowners should start with pets before treating the yard and surrounding areas.
But insects aren’t just staying outdoors.
Martin says warmer weather also brings an increase in fruit flies and drain flies inside homes.
“They’re attracted to organic matter,” he said. “That could be food residue in a drain, the bottom of a trash can, or even a small piece of food that got missed.”
He says temporary fixes like covering drains may help briefly, but finding the source is the only permanent solution.
“If you don’t remove what’s attracting them, they’ll keep coming back,” Martin said.
At the end of the day, Martin says it comes with the territory.
“This is part of living in a tropical climate,” he said.
And in southeast Louisiana, bug season appears to be in full swing.
