Texans Should Be Aware of These Odd and Disgusting Bugs This Summer

As warmer spring days approach East Texas, nature starts waking up—including all kinds of creepy crawlies! While some bugs are beneficial for gardens and the environment, others are downright annoying—or even dangerous.

With rising temperatures and humidity, insects thrive, breeding rapidly and making their way into homes, yards, and vehicles. If you grew up in East Texas, you probably have stories of battling mosquitoes, fire ants, spiders, and even scorpions. So, as we head into another warm season, let’s take a closer look at the pests that come with it.

Childhood Memories of Dealing with Bugs

For many East Texans, dealing with summer pests is a part of life. Growing up, I remember visiting my grandparents’ farmhouse in Barry, Texas, near Corsicana. Before bedtime, my grandmother would have us check the beds for spiders and scorpions. These little invaders would sometimes make their way inside, and she wanted to make sure no one got bitten or stung.

That’s the reality of summer in Texas—the heat brings out all kinds of insects, and some are not just annoying, but potentially harmful.

Why Warmer Weather Brings More Bugs

The combination of heat and humidity creates the perfect environment for many insects to thrive. The longer days and warm nights provide ideal breeding conditions for pests like:

Mosquitoes – Known for spreading diseases like West Nile virus and Zika
Flies – Annoying and capable of carrying bacteria
Bees & Wasps – Beneficial pollinators, but can sting when disturbed
Chiggers & Ticks – Small but dangerous, capable of spreading Lyme disease and causing severe itching
Fire Ants – Aggressive and painful, often building mounds in yards

Some insects play an essential role in nature, but others invade homes, damage property, and pose health risks.

The Battle Against Pests

For East Texans, pest control is a yearly investment. Homeowners spend money on bug sprays, repellents, and extermination services to keep these invaders at bay. Whether it’s:

Buying insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites
Spraying yards to keep fire ants away from kids and pets
Setting traps to prevent fly and roach infestations

Every summer, families spend hundreds of dollars trying to stay safe and comfortable outdoors.

Which Bugs Should You Watch Out For?

Here are some of the most common and troublesome insects you’ll encounter in East Texas:

1. Mosquitoes

Thrive in warm, humid areas
Carry diseases like West Nile and Zika
Found near standing water

2. Fire Ants

Their painful sting leaves itchy welts
Can build mounds in your yard
Extremely aggressive if disturbed

3. Spiders & Scorpions

Often found in homes, garages, and dark corners
Some species, like brown recluse spiders, have venomous bites
Scorpions can deliver a painful sting

4. Ticks & Chiggers

Hide in tall grass and wooded areas
Cause severe itching and rashes
Ticks can spread Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever

5. Flies

Common in outdoor areas, especially near food
Carry bacteria that can contaminate surfaces

6. Bees & Wasps

Important for pollination but can become aggressive
Wasps can sting multiple times

How to Protect Your Home and Yard from Bugs

Tips for Keeping Bugs Away

Eliminate standing water – Mosquitoes lay eggs in water sources like birdbaths and gutters
Use insect repellent – Especially in wooded or grassy areas
Keep your yard trimmed – Ticks and chiggers love tall grass
Seal your home – Check for cracks and entry points where bugs can get inside
Treat fire ant mounds early – Before they spread