Alexandria’s Pest Calendar: What to Expect Every Season

Alexandria, Louisiana, is known for its humid subtropical climate, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality. Unfortunately, the very weather that makes our region so beautiful also makes it a haven for pests. From swarming termites in the spring to rodents seeking warmth in the winter, homeowners in Central Louisiana face a year-round battle against unwanted guests.

Understanding the seasonality of these pests is the first step in protecting your home. When you know what is coming, you can take preventative measures before an infestation takes root. Whether you are dealing with a sudden ant trail in your kitchen or hearing strange noises in your attic, knowing the local pest calendar can save you time, money, and stress.

At J&J Exterminating, we have been serving Louisiana families since 1959. We understand the unique rhythms of local pest activity because we live here, too. This guide will walk you through what to expect each season in Alexandria and how our comprehensive pest control solutions can keep your home safe all year long.

Spring: The Awakening

As the temperatures rise and the azaleas bloom, the pest world wakes up from its winter slumber. Spring in Alexandria is synonymous with one major event: termite swarms. This is the time when reproductive termites leave their colonies to start new ones, often filling the air in alarming numbers.

The Threat of Termites

Native subterranean termites and the more aggressive Formosan termites are highly active during the spring months. Rain combined with warming soil creates the perfect conditions for them to thrive. If you see discarded wings on your windowsills or mud tubes near your foundation, it is time to act immediately.

Other Spring Offenders

Termites aren’t the only ones enjoying the warm weather.

Ants: Fire ants and carpenter ants become very active as they forage for food. You might notice mounds popping up in your yard or trails leading into your pantry.
Mosquitoes: While they are a year-round nuisance in Louisiana, mosquito populations explode in the spring, especially after heavy rains. Standing water becomes a breeding ground for these biting pests.
Wasps and Bees: Queens emerge to build new nests, often under eaves or in trees near homes.

How We Help

Spring is the critical time for preventative maintenance. At J&J Exterminating, we offer free termite inspections to catch problems early. Our Termidor® and Sentricon® systems are designed to eliminate colonies and prevent future infestations. For general pests, our Gold Shield 365 service creates a barrier around your home, stopping ants and other insects before they get inside.

Summer: The Peak Season

Louisiana summers are hot, humid, and teeming with life. For pests, this is the season of abundance. With high temperatures and plenty of food sources available, insect populations reach their peak.

Mosquitoes and Flies take Over

If you have ever tried to host a barbecue in July, you know the struggle. Mosquitoes are aggressive during dawn and dusk, while flies can ruin a picnic in minutes. Beyond being annoying, mosquitoes in our area can carry diseases like West Nile virus, making control essential for your family’s health.

Cockroaches seek Moisture

The American cockroach—often politely called the “palmetto bug”—loves the humidity but will seek shelter indoors if it gets too hot or too dry. They are often found in kitchens and bathrooms, scuttling away when the lights turn on. German cockroaches, a smaller but more persistent species, can also quickly infest kitchens during the summer months.

Spiders and Stinging Insects

Spider populations grow as their food source (other insects) becomes plentiful. Meanwhile, wasp and hornet nests that started in spring are now fully established and can be dangerous if disturbed.

How We Help

Summer requires aggressive defense. Our residential pest control services focus on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This means we don’t just spray; we look for the source. We treat breeding grounds for mosquitoes and apply long-lasting barriers to keep roaches and spiders out. Our technicians can also identify and safely remove wasp nests to keep your yard safe for summer fun.

Fall: The Shift Indoors

As the oppressive heat breaks and leaves start to turn, pest behavior shifts again. The primary goal for many creatures during autumn is preparation for winter. As the food sources outside begin to dwindle, your home starts to look very attractive.

Rodents on the Move

Mice and rats are the biggest concern in the fall. As nights get cooler, they look for warm, secure places to nest. Your attic, garage, or crawlspace offers the perfect shelter. Rodents can squeeze through incredibly small openings, and once inside, they can chew through wires and insulation.

The Return of the Overwintering Pests

Certain insects, like lady beetles and stink bugs, will congregate on the sunny sides of buildings in the fall, looking for a way in. They aren’t looking to eat your home like termites, but they are looking for a cozy place to sleep until spring. If they get into your wall voids, they can become a recurring nuisance.

Occasional Invaders

You might see crickets or silverfish moving indoors as the soil dries out or temperatures drop. These pests can damage fabrics, paper, and books if left unchecked.

How We Help

Fall is the perfect time for exclusion work. J&J Exterminating can inspect your home for entry points that rodents or insects might use. We look for gaps around pipes, vents, and doors. Our rodent control services include trapping and baiting to handle any current residents, followed by sealing up your home to prevent new ones from entering.

Winter: The Quiet Danger

Winter in Alexandria is mild compared to the north, but it gets cold enough to drive pests into hiding. While you might not see as many bugs flying around, that doesn’t mean your home is pest-free. In fact, winter can be a dangerous time because infestations often go unnoticed until significant damage is done.

Silent Destroyers

While subterranean termites are less active in the cold, they don’t disappear. If they are already established in a temperature-controlled environment (like your walls), they can continue to feed all winter long.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a year-round problem because they live indoors with us. However, travel for the holidays can often lead to new infestations. They hitch rides on luggage and coats, moving from hotels or relatives’ homes into yours.

How We Help

Winter is about monitoring and maintenance. Our guaranteed quarterly pest control service ensures that even when you aren’t seeing bugs, we are checking for them. If you suspect bed bugs after holiday travel, our specialized treatment plans are effective and discreet. We also continue to monitor termite bait stations to ensure your protection never lapses.

The J&J Difference: Local Knowledge, Proven Results

Dealing with pests in Louisiana isn’t a one-time event; it is a year-round commitment. That is why choosing a local partner matters. J&J Exterminating isn’t a faceless national chain. We are Louisiana’s largest independently-owned pest control company, with 15 locations across the state.

We know the difference between a Formosan termite and a Native subterranean termite, and we know exactly which treatment works best for each in our specific soil types. We understand that “pest control” in Alexandria involves battling high humidity and heavy rainfall, factors that generic solutions often overlook.

Our commitment to you includes:

Total Pest Control: From termites to mosquitoes, we handle it all.
Guaranteed Service: We offer unlimited call-backs 365 days a year. If the pests come back between scheduled visits, so do we—at no extra cost.
Safety First: Our Gold Shield 365 program focuses on exclusion and targeted baiting, reducing the need for broad chemical applications inside your home.
24-Hour Response: Pests don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we.

Don’t let the changing seasons catch you off guard. Whether it is spring swarm season or the winter rodent migration, your home deserves the best protection available.