Spring 2026 follows a winter that was warmer than average across most of the continental United States. The National Weather Service reported above-average temperatures from November through February across the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and parts of the Midwest. For pest control, this has direct consequences: overwintering insect populations survived at higher rates than normal, and spring emergence is happening 2–3 weeks earlier than the 10-year average in many regions.
Here is what our editorial team and expert reviewer expect across the four major U.S. pest regions this spring, based on weather data, historical patterns, and reports from licensed pest control operators in the field.
Termites: Subterranean termite swarm season started in late February in Florida — roughly three weeks early. By mid-March, swarms were reported across Georgia and the Carolinas. If you have not had a termite inspection in the past 12 months, schedule one now. The warm winter means colonies that would normally be dormant were active and feeding through December and January.
Fire ants: Fire ant mounds are already highly active across Texas and the Gulf Coast. The warm winter allowed colonies to build population through what is normally a die-back period. Expect larger-than-average mounds and earlier swarming activity. The Texas A&M two-step method — broadcast bait followed by individual mound treatment — remains the most effective approach.
Mosquitoes: Standing water from spring rains combined with early warm temperatures means mosquito breeding is already underway. The Asian tiger mosquito — an aggressive daytime biter — has expanded its range further north. Start eliminating standing water now and apply Bti dunks to any water features you cannot drain.
Ticks: Tick activity is already elevated. The mild winter allowed both blacklegged (deer) ticks and lone star ticks to remain active later in fall and re-emerge earlier in spring. Lyme disease risk is expected to be above average. If you have wooded areas bordering your yard, perimeter treatment with bifenthrin should begin as soon as daytime temperatures consistently hit 50°F.
Spotted lanternfly: The spotted lanternfly continues its westward and southward expansion. Egg masses laid last fall are hatching now. Scrape and destroy any egg masses you find on trees, outdoor furniture, vehicles, or building surfaces. Report new sightings to your state agricultural department.
Carpenter ants: Carpenter ant activity peaks in spring when satellite colonies become active. If you see large black ants indoors — especially near moisture-damaged wood — investigate immediately. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it for nesting, leaving behind sawdust-like frass.
Ants: Pavement ants and odorous house ants will be the first spring invaders. As soil temperatures rise above 50°F, colonies become active and foragers enter homes through foundation cracks. Bait-based strategies using indoxacarb or fipronil gel baits are more effective than contact sprays, which kill foragers without reaching the colony.
Stink bugs: Brown marmorated stink bugs that overwintered in wall voids and attics are waking up and moving toward light — you will see them on windows and around doors. They are a nuisance pest only. Vacuum them up (do not crush — the smell is intense). Seal entry points now to prevent next fall's invasion.
Boxelder bugs: Similar to stink bugs, boxelder bugs emerge from overwintering sites in spring. If you have boxelder or maple trees on your property, expect activity. A perimeter spray with bifenthrin in late fall is the most effective prevention.
Scorpions: In Arizona and Nevada, scorpion season begins in earnest as nighttime temperatures rise above 70°F. Seal all gaps around doors, windows, and pipe penetrations. Scorpions can enter through openings as narrow as a credit card.
Spider mites: Dry spring conditions in California and the Southwest favor spider mite outbreaks on ornamental plants and gardens. Check the undersides of leaves for stippling and fine webbing. Strong water spray is the first line of defense — read our complete spider mite control guide.
Argentine ants: Argentine ants form supercolonies in coastal California and are among the most persistent household invaders. They are attracted to moisture during dry periods. Bait stations using sugar-based baits with fipronil or hydramethylnon are the recommended approach.
For a complete room-by-room spring preparation checklist, see our Spring Pest Prevention Checklist and Step-by-Step Spring Pest Prevention Guide.