Hot, dry days are doing more than wilting
plants outdoors. They’re chasing bugs indoors, say University of
Georgia experts.

“Insect pests normally found on the outside will move
inside in search of water or food during dry periods,” says
Beverly Sparks, an Extension Service entomologist with the
UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

“Several species of ants, including fire ants and
Argentine ants,” Sparks says, “are normally found outdoors.
But they become indoor pests during hot, dry periods.”

Cockroaches, millipedes and scorpions are other pests
that move indoors in search of cooler temperatures and
water. Look for yellow jackets to be more aggressive toward
water and soft drinks, too.

Extension horticulture educator Walter Reeves says
cicada killers (ground-nesting wasps) are getting more
active, too. “They’re very nonaggressive, though,” he said.
“You’ll see them swarming around, but they generally won’t
hurt you.”