The Buzz on Bugs

For most Americans on the 4th of July, fireworks aren't the only sounds buzzing in their ears—mosquitoes, flies, ticks and other pests will invade all of the backyard barbecue celebrations. TruGreen, the nation's leading professional lawn care company helping people live life outside, today announced the results of its first annual list of the 10 US cities most bothered by bugs.


As temperatures rise, more insects come out to play, and a recent survey conducted online by Harris Poll for TruGreen in June 2017 found that 60% of Americans in the Northeast are worried about ticks ruining their time outside this summer, compared to 48% in the Midwest, 35% in the South, and 32% in the West. If you're a bug-loving entomophile, you may find few people who share your passion for pests in these cities, but if you suffer from entomophobia, a fear of insects, you may be in good company in:

Hartford, Connecticut
Columbus, Ohio
Detroit
Boston
Rochester, New York
Cincinnati
Pittsburgh
Providence, Rhode Island
Buffalo, New York
Chicago


The last week in June is National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, and mosquitoes are by far one of the most bothersome bugs of summer. In fact, 65% of Americans use bug spray on themselves/their family to combat mosquitoes outdoors at home, but although it's the top response for preventative measures, only half (51%) say it is most effective at preventing mosquitoes from biting outdoors at home, according to another Harris Poll survey conducted online for TruGreen in March 2017.


“Nobody likes to be bothered by bugs, but they can be more than just annoying. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes can transmit diseases and cause allergic reactions in both people and pets,” said John Bell, board certified entomologist and TruGreen regional technical manager.


If you live in one of these cities, or somewhere else where you want to banish bugs, here are some tips for minimizing pests in your yard:

• Mosquitoes lay their eggs near water, so remove standing water that accumulates in things like buckets and birdbaths.
• Ticks love tall grasses and brush, so keep your grass cut.
• Invite animals who eat bugs to your yard to move in and feast by placing bat and birdhouses in your yard.
• Fleas thrive in moist places, so be careful not to over water your lawn and landscape.
• Take the necessary precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and consider hiring a professional lawn care company to address your pest concerns.