Many different kinds of bugs are resourceful, able to make themselves at home in unlikely areas and figuring out ways to cohabitate—even thrive—amongst humans. You’ve likely come across a bug hiding out in a place you weren’t expecting. One such place that people might not think of when they think of common insect habitats is rain gutters. But in fact, several different types of insects may make themselves comfortable there. Keep reading to learn what gutter bugs could be hiding out in your gutters.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one type of insect that might be hanging out in your gutter. As you may know, mosquitoes lay their eggs in sources of stagnant water. Rain gutters, especially ones that get clogged with leaves and other debris, prevent water from draining and could offer the perfect spot for mosquitoes to lay eggs. You want your gutters to be clear of obstructions so water can flow properly, lessening the likelihood that mosquitoes will lay eggs there.
Hornets or wasps
Hornets and wasps may also make themselves at home in a rain gutter—and they’re def initely not a sight you want to see. With their painful stings, hornets and wasps may pose a health threat. They are attracted to gutters as places to build their nests. Unlike other bugs on this list , paper wasps sometimes build their nests on the underside of gutters, making them easier to spot. The nest is distinct because of its shape, which resembles an upside down umbrella. Yellowjackets, on the other hand, may make a nest under gutter splash blocks.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are another pest that may be found in home gutters. There are multiple species of cockroaches in North America. Some cockroaches are known to seek shelter indoors, but most species breed and live outdoors although they are sometimes found indoors. They are attracted to plant mater ial and decay, so will be more likely to turn up if your gutter is blocked. And they also prefer moist environments, making a clogged gutter a pretty ideal location.
Termites
In order to survive, termites need moisture. Rain gutters can offer just that. Additionally, a clogged rain gutter will mean the w ater isn’t draining properly, and could result in moisture gathering in places it shouldn’t—potentially causing wood rot, which is something else that could attract termites. Termites that get comfort able living near clogged gutters and using the extra moisture available may be more likely to cause roof or ceiling damage.
Carpenter ants
Carpenter ants are sometimes mistaken for termites, especially when they’re swarming. Though there are several differences between the two, both carpenter ants and termites can be found near gutters. That’s because carpenter ants like to be near places where wood is w ater-damaged, or consistently exposed to moisture. A gutter, particularly a clogged one, can help create this environment. Carpenter ants may live both indoors and outdoors, so you don’t want to give them the opportunity to make their way into your home after they start living in or near your gutter.
How can you prevent bugs in your gutter?
Proper maintenance and cleaning of your gutters is the best way to prevent bugs from making themselves at home there. Cleaning out your gutters will help get rid of standing water that has gathered, decaying leaves and other debris, and the generally moist environment that is attractive to several bugs. It’s also important to make sure that your gutter is properly pitched so that the water can drain properly. One other method is to use gutter protection devices which keeps leaves and other debris out of the gutters.
If you’re finding bugs around your home but aren’t sure where they’re coming from, contact Terminix. A Terminix pest professional will be able to inspect your home and help determine where the bugs may be hiding out—such as in your gutter. And, a Terminix pest professional will also be able to help d etermine the best and most effective course of action.
