How Climate Change Is Making Bed Bugs, Ticks, and Mosquitoes Worse Across Southern Ontario

Considerable climate change is allowing pests to remain active longer and spread further in Canada, including Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Milton, Mississauga, and surrounding Southern Ontario regions, causing major problems for homeowners in those areas.

Bed bugs, ticks, and mosquitoes are now more problematic and are able to remain active longer because of warmer temperatures and changes in climate. Longer warmer seasons and unpredictable weather causes increased pestilence in and around homes and buildings.

Reviewed by Ash Ham, pest control trained certified specialist since 2010

Bedbug, Tick and Mosquito infestation is increasing throughout Canada as the climate continues to change and support an extended season of activity and more successful life cycles. Warmer temperatures and shifting weather patterns have created an environment in Canada that allows these pests to spread and thrive, resulting in significant problems for Canadian homeowners. Many areas in Southern Ontario now face greater frequency and challenges related to pest infestation than ever before.

Why Climate Change Is Responsible For Increasing The Number Of Pest Activities

The transition of climate conditions across Canada is shifting towards more favorable conditions for the survival of many types of pests and is responsible for their increased numbers and spread across Canada.

The winter periods are now becoming warmer and the warmer summer months provide longer periods of time for breeding.

There have also been increases in the moisture levels experienced in certain areas of the province that favor the reproduction of mosquitoes and improve survival of other pests.

Pest Infestations Are Being Caused by Climate Change

• The combination of warmer winters means that pests are less susceptible to cold weather.
• Longer summers allow pests to create more offspring, and thus breed more frequently.
• In places like Hamilton and Burlington, as cities become denser, the ability of pests to survive is increasing because of higher levels of humidity.
• As a result, many pest species have shifted their ranges to closer to urban areas.

Bed Bugs – Bed Bugs Are Affected by the Indoor Environment and Travel

Bed bugs are very effective at taking advantage of the indoor environment. They do very well in environments with stable temperatures and high levels of humidity (all indoors). The fact that people are likely to move around more frequently has contributed to the overall population of bed bugs, as well as many other types of pests.

Their reproductive cycle is fairly short, so, as is common with many types of pests, once they are established in your home, they can continue to reproduce. In some multi-unit buildings, it is not uncommon for bed bugs to infest multiple units within a building (e.g., apartments), which makes controlling the spread of bed bugs very difficult.

Ticks – Ticks Are Also Moving to New Areas as Temperatures Increase

Due to global warming, areas that were previously too cold for Ticks to survive now provide sufficient warmth for survival. Several local areas have seen significant increases in Ticks being found in parks, on hiking trails, and residential yards.

Keeping grass cut short and reducing dense brush near the yard can help lower the chance of ticks settling close to where people and pets spend time.

Mosquitoes – Mosquito Populations Are Growing Due to Increased Rainfall and Warmer Temperatures

As temperatures have increased over the years, it has become easier for mosquitoes to thrive in both wetter and warmer climates. In addition to increasing their rate of reproduction, mosquitoes have also extended the duration of their active season. Mosquitoes thrive where there is a high level of moisture in the air (high humidity) and where they are exposed to the sun.

As warmer weather months continue through the fall, homeowners in many parts of Southern Ontario have noted increased levels of mosquito activity, even seasonally. Any amount of stagnant or still water will supply enough nutrition for mosquitoes to reproduce within that area.

Preventative Measures for Homeowners

To reduce the risk of pest infestations for homeowners, they must take preventative measures that consistently protect their homes from pests. With increased periods of time that pests can remain active on local properties, the need for homeowners to be proactive in managing their property for pests by way of regular outdoor maintenance is critical to limiting the opportunity for pests to breed and thrive.

Practical Measures Homeowners Can Take to Prevent Pest Exposure

• Remove any standing water in gutters, pots or places where water has pooled
• Trim lawns and shrubbery to prevent ticks from hiding in the foliage
• Seal all cracks and entry points around the structure
• Inspect all luggage and second-hand furniture for signs of bed bugs
• Utilize insect repellents and protective clothing when working outdoors

Long-Term Pest Control Outlook For Homeowners In Canada

The effects of climate on how pests behave mean that homeowners’ long-term approach to pest prevention will have to be much more formal and systematic. This will mean that any suburban or urban resident will need to establish a regular inspection schedule, have a maintenance program and respond upon noticing the first signs of pests.

Equipping yourself with knowledge on how climate change affects pest behavior will assist you in responding more effectively and creating a safe environment to raise your family.

Commonly Asked Questions

Why are pest control issues increasing in Canada?

Warmer temperatures have allowed pests to survive and reproduce more frequently because the active season is longer.

Are ticks becoming common in residential areas?

Yes. As ticks move further into residential areas, this trend is expected to continue, especially near yards, trails, and green space.

What can I do to eliminate mosquitoes around my property?

Eliminating standing water and improving drainage are the most effective ways to reduce mosquito reproduction around the property.

Are bed bugs spreading due to climate change?

They are indirectly affected by climate, while increased travel patterns and urban density also help bed bugs spread more easily.

Do I have to have my property treated by pest control companies on an ongoing basis?

Due to extended seasons and higher pest activity across many parts of Ontario, many homeowners are choosing a more proactive and ongoing approach to pest control management.

About the Author

Ash Ham has owned and operated pest control services since 2010. He works on pest issues for businesses and homes like rodents, ants, bed bugs, ticks, mosquitoes, wasps, cockroaches and other common infestations, focusing on the inspections, exclusion, prevention, and long-term control respectively.

Maximum Pest Control Services is one of the few local pest control companies in Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Milton, and Mississauga that services area homes and businesses with simple and easy solutions to pest control. We offer customers both residential and commercial pest control services accounts all year long.

If pests are appearing on your property sooner, staying for long periods, or appearing more frequently, it is better to control the pest problem before it grows larger. Address your pest concerns today by calling Maximum Pest Control Services at (905) 582-5502.