The connection between pest activity and wildfires

Wildfires can often lead to a surge in certain insect and rodent populations. This increase isn't a fleeting phenomenon; the effects can last for months, even years. We sat down with Western Exterminator Market Technical Director and Associate Certified Entomologist Cody James Pace to gain insight into what happens to pests after a fire. Pace explained, "The immediate effect is often the destruction of their habitat, forcing them to seek new shelter. This displacement can lead to an increase in their activity in urban and suburban areas." This means that even after the immediate chaos of the fire subsides, homeowners and land managers may still grapple with heightened pest pressure. 

How wildfires affect pests and wildlife

Wildfires are devastating for wildlife and pests. Pace notes that the full impact, especially in urban areas, can be hard to predict. The immediate problem is habitat destruction, forcing animals to flee and often pushing pests into homes and buildings, seeking food and shelter. The fire itself kills some animals outright, while others die from smoke or lack of resources. "Some pests may be killed directly by the fire, while others may succumb to smoke inhalation or lack of food and water," Pace mentioned. Wildfires can also disrupt ecosystems and throw off predator-prey relationships, which can cause pest populations to increase.

Pests affected by wildfires

Wildfires dramatically alter the landscape, impacting insect populations in various ways. As Pace notes, "Wildfires can also disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, leading to an increase in pest populations. The loss of predators and natural barriers can allow these populations to grow unchecked." Here are some wildfire pests that might be affected:

• Ants: These adaptable pests may become more prevalent in urban areas after a wildfire. After being displaced from their natural habitats, they may seek refuge in homes and businesses.
• Cockroaches: Cockroaches are highly adaptable and can thrive in disturbed environments. Wildfires can force them into urban areas where they can find food and shelter.
• Bark beetles: These insects can be attracted to wildfires and often thrive in the weakened and stressed trees that survive a wildfire. The fire damage makes the trees more susceptible to infestation, and bark beetle populations can explode, killing even more trees.
• Mosquitoes: While the fire might kill some mosquitoes, the resulting changes in the landscape can create new breeding sites. Post-fire flooding or changes in water flow can lead to stagnant pools of water, which is ideal for mosquitoes to reproduce.

What happens to rodents and other wildlife?

Wildfires affect wildlife in many ways. Some animals die, while others are forced to move. The loss of plants means some animals lose their food, but others, like rats and mice, might find new opportunities among the debris. 

Urban wildfires, like those in Southern California, are even more complicated. Pace explained, "Unlike wilderness fires, these fires release toxic chemicals from burning homes and cars. We don't yet know how this will affect pests. Some toxins might kill them, while others could make the environment better for different pests. It all depends on what chemicals are released by the intense heat." City fires add a new level of pollution that could have unexpected consequences for rodents and other wildlife.

Protecting your home from post-wildfire pest activity

Protecting your home becomes crucial after a wildfire, and taking preventative measures can help reduce the risk of infestations. Pace shared some key steps you can take to help:

• Reduce water & food sources: Fix leaky faucets and pipes, empty standing water, and ensure proper drainage around your home.
• Habitat and harborage modification: Clear clutter, trim bushes, and store firewood away from your house.
• Exclusion: Seal cracks or openings in your home's foundation and walls, and properly seal doors and windows.
• Monitoring: Monitoring pest populations after a wildfire can help to identify potential outbreaks and implement control measures early on.
• Habitat restoration: Restoring natural habitats after a wildfire can help to support native species and reduce the likelihood of pest infestations.

At Western Exterminator, we understand the unique challenges wildfires present. Our team of exterminators can assess your property, identify potential pest threats, and develop a customized plan to protect your home from pests. We're here to help you safeguard your property and family after a wildfire. Get started today with our wildlife and pest control services.