Summer Pest Problems in 2025: What’s Invading Homes Right Now

Summer in Southern California is filled with sunshine, outdoor adventures, and—unfortunately—pest problems. As temperatures climb, so does pest activity. Homes across the region are being invaded by bugs seeking food, water, and shelter from the scorching heat. Whether you're in Orange County, Riverside, or coastal communities like Huntington Beach, knowing what to look out for can help you stay protected.

Here’s your updated guide to the most active summer pests in SoCal for 2025—and how to stop them from moving in.

Ants on the March

Ants are the number one nuisance pest in Southern California homes during the summer. The hot, dry weather drives them indoors in search of moisture and food. Argentine ants, in particular, are everywhere—forming massive colonies that seem impossible to eliminate without professional help. Pavement ants and odorous house ants (which smell like rotten coconut when crushed) are also common invaders.

You’ll often see ants in long trails across countertops, floors, or baseboards, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Once they find a reliable food source—even just a few crumbs—they’ll alert their entire colony to join the feast.

Why they’re a problem:

• Hard to eliminate without targeting the colony.
• Can contaminate food and spread bacteria.
• Nest in walls, under floors, or behind appliances.

What helps:

• Use airtight containers for food storage.
• Wipe down surfaces regularly to erase scent trails.
• Fix leaking pipes and remove standing water.
• For persistent infestations, bait systems and professional treatments are most effective.

Spiders Seeking Shelter

Spiders aren't just creepy—they’re often a sign that other insects have invaded your home. As natural predators, spiders follow their prey indoors during the summer months. Common types in Southern California include cellar spiders (aka “daddy longlegs”), wolf spiders, and the more dangerous black widow and desert recluse spiders.

Spiders prefer cool, undisturbed spaces like garages, closets, basements, and cluttered corners. While most are harmless, black widow bites can cause serious reactions and should not be ignored.

Why they’re a problem:

• Some species pose health risks.
• They reproduce quickly if not managed.
• Spider webs can be unsightly and indicate a larger insect problem.

Prevention tips:

• Declutter storage areas and keep items off the floor.
• Shake out shoes and laundry left in the garage or patio.
• Seal cracks around windows and doors.
• Control other pests to reduce their food source.

Cockroach Activity Rising

Cockroaches are more than just gross—they’re dangerous. German cockroaches, the most common indoor species, are prolific breeders and can spread bacteria like E. coli and salmonella. American cockroaches, also known as “palmetto bugs,” are bigger and often found in dark, damp areas like basements, crawlspaces, and sewers.

In the summer, their populations explode due to high humidity and increased food waste from backyard cookouts or open trash bins. They’re nocturnal, so if you see one during the day, you may already have an infestation.

Health concerns:

• Cockroach droppings and shed skin can trigger asthma and allergies.
• They contaminate food and surfaces they crawl across.

How to fight them:

• Fix leaky pipes and eliminate standing water.
• Store pet food and human food in sealed containers.
• Empty trash cans frequently and keep bins clean.
• Professional pest control is often necessary to break the breeding cycle.

Mosquitoes in Urban & Coastal Areas

Mosquitoes are thriving this year thanks to a combination of above-average temperatures and late-season rainfall that’s left behind plenty of stagnant water—perfect for breeding. Even a bottle cap’s worth of water is enough for mosquitoes to lay eggs.

SoCal residents in coastal and inland areas alike are seeing increased mosquito activity, especially around yards, patios, and shaded areas with standing water.

Health risks:

• Mosquitoes in Southern California can carry West Nile Virus, which has been reported in the region for years.
• Their itchy bites can lead to secondary infections in sensitive individuals.

Control tips:

• Empty standing water from flowerpots, birdbaths, gutters, and pet bowls weekly.
• Use mosquito-repellent plants like citronella and lavender around patios.
• Wear repellent with DEET or picaridin when outdoors.
• Ask about professional yard treatments that reduce mosquito populations for weeks at a time.

Stinging Insects on High Alert

Wasps, yellowjackets, and even bees become more aggressive in late summer as their colonies grow larger and food sources dwindle. You may find them nesting under eaves, in BBQ grills, playground equipment, or even inside wall voids.

Paper wasps are particularly common in Southern California. While they’re less aggressive than yellowjackets, they’ll still sting if provoked.

Why they’re dangerous:

• Stings are painful and can be life-threatening for allergic individuals.
• Yellowjackets are aggressive and may sting repeatedly.
• Nests can be difficult and dangerous to remove without proper equipment.

Safe removal: Never attempt to remove a nest on your own. A licensed pest control expert can handle it safely and humanely.

Rodents Looking for Shade

Though not insects, roof rats and house mice are worth mentioning as they often become more active in homes during summer heat. They’ll enter through tiny gaps in your roofline or siding, especially if vegetation provides cover or branches touch your home.

What they do:

• Chew through wires and insulation.
• Leave droppings that spread bacteria.
• Make noise in walls and ceilings at night.

Prevention:

• Seal any openings larger than a quarter inch.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from the house.
• Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.

Bed Bugs & Summer Travel

Summer is peak travel season—and bed bugs love to hitch a ride in suitcases, backpacks, and used furniture. You don’t have to stay in a budget motel to pick them up—they’re found in luxury hotels, short-term rentals, and even airports.

Signs of bed bugs:

• Itchy, red welts in a line or cluster (especially on arms, legs, or back).
• Small rust-colored stains on sheets or mattress seams.
• A sweet, musty odor in heavily infested areas.

What to do:

• Inspect your hotel mattress, headboard, and bedding immediately upon arrival.
• Keep luggage elevated and away from walls.
• Wash and dry clothes on high heat after returning from a trip.
• Call a pest control professional if you suspect bed bugs—DIY methods rarely work long-term.

Stay Ahead of Summer Pests—Call the bugman Termite & Pest Control 

Southern California’s warm climate and urban sprawl create the perfect environment for summer pests. Whether it’s ants trailing across your kitchen, cockroaches hiding under the sink, or mosquitoes ruining your backyard BBQs, now is the time to act.

the bugman Termite & Pest Control is here to help. We specialize in effective residential and commercial pest control tailored to your unique environment. Contact the bugman Termite & Pest Control today to schedule your free pest inspection and take back your summer. Let us help you live and work pest-free with confidence!