Why are South-facing lakefront homes so prone to flies and spiders?

Food. Lakeside houses are often spider heaven. Lakes produces lots of food for spiders in the form of midges, mosquitoes, and numerous flying insects.

It’s a perplexing problem: your south-facing lakefront home is overrun with bugs, while your neighbors on the east side seem blissfully unaffected. It doesn’t make sense. After all, the prevailing winds in Florida blow from the east. So, why are you the one battling an army of tiny flies and the spiders that love them?

The answer lies in a complex interplay of factors that create an ideal environment for these pests on the south side of your property.

The South Side Story: Why Bugs Love Your Lake House

It might seem counterintuitive, but there’s a reason why south-facing lakefront homes tend to be a bug haven. The culprit? The sun.

• Sunlight and Temperature: The south side of your home receives the most direct sunlight throughout the day, creating a warmer microclimate. Warmer temperatures are ideal breeding grounds for many insects.
• Wind Patterns: While prevailing winds in Florida tend to blow from the east, local wind patterns around lakes can vary. Often, these winds push insects towards the south side of the lake.
• Vegetation: The south side of a lake often has different vegetation than the north side, which can attract specific types of insects.
• Water Conditions: Increased sunlight on the south side can contribute to algae blooms, providing a food source for certain insects.

More Than Just Bugs: The Ripple Effect

The abundance of insects on the south side of your lake home attracts more than just spiders. You’re also inviting lizards, frogs, and even fire ants to your property. These creatures are drawn to the plentiful food source provided by the insect population.

Protecting Your Lakefront Oasis

While relocating your home isn’t a practical solution, there are steps you can take to reduce the insect population around your property.

• Minimize Light Pollution: Insects are attracted to light. Turn off outdoor lights when possible, and use blackout curtains or shades to reduce indoor light.
• Strategic Landscaping: Install landscape lighting directed away from your home to attract insects away from your living space. Avoid planting insect-attracting plants near your home.
• Pest Control: A professional pest control service like Pest & Lawn Organic Guard Inc. can help manage insect populations and provide targeted treatments for specific pests. Our fire ant control program can also help protect your yard and family.

By understanding the factors contributing to the insect problem on the south side of your lake home and taking proactive steps to reduce their numbers, you can enjoy your lakefront property without the constant battle against bugs.

Contact Pest & Lawn Organic Guard Inc. today for a free consultation to discuss your specific pest control needs.

Schedule Your Spider Control Treatment Today!

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/2010/11/06/spider-woes