Southern Arizona summers bring blazing heat, monsoon rains—and a spike in pest activity. As temperatures climb, many desert pests become more active, often seeking food, water, or shelter in and around your home. Here’s a guide to the most common summer pests in the Tucson metro area and how to keep them out of your home.
Bark Scorpions
When They’re Active: Nighttime during warm months
Why They’re a Problem: Their sting is painful and can be dangerous for pets and kids.
Scorpions love to hide in cool, damp places—under rocks, near patio furniture, or inside shoes left outdoors. The Arizona bark scorpion is especially common and has the most medically concerning sting among our common scorpion species.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal cracks and crevices
- Use door sweeps and weather stripping
- Shake out shoes, towels, and clothing before use
- Eliminate other pests (their food source)
- Use a blacklight to check for scorpions at night
Black Widows and Arizona Brown Spiders
When They’re Active: Summer, especially around homes with lots of insects
Why They’re a Problem: While most spiders are harmless, black widow and Arizona Brown spiders can be venomous.
These spiders prefer dark, quiet areas like garages, sheds, and under patio furniture.
Prevention Tips:
- Declutter storage spaces
- Wear gloves when working in sheds or garages
- Eliminate other pests (their food source)
Harvester and Pavement Ants
When They’re Active: Warm months, especially after rain
Why They’re a Problem: They invade kitchens and some species bite or sting.
You might see trails of ants or small mounds in your yard, especially after monsoon showers.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep food sealed and counters clean
- Fix leaks and eliminate moisture sources
- Create a barrier with professional-grade pest control
American Cockroaches
When They’re Active: Summer and monsoon season
Why They’re a Problem: Roaches carry bacteria and contaminate food.
These pests thrive in heat and humidity and are commonly found near drains, kitchens, or outdoor trash areas.
Prevention Tips:
- Eliminate standing water and food sources
- Seal gaps around pipes and vents
- Use baits or call a pest professional for lasting control
Pack Rats and Mice
When They’re Active: Year-round, but more active in summer heat
Why They’re a Problem: They cause damage to wiring, insulation, and can carry diseases.
They often nest in vehicles, attics, or sheds—especially in cluttered or unmaintained areas.
Prevention Tips:
- Remove debris and brush piles near the home
- Inspect garages and sheds regularly
- Use rodent-proof materials to seal entry points
Crickets
When They’re Active: Year-round, but especially during monsoon season
Why They’re a Problem: Their chirping can be loud and annoying—and they attract predators like spiders and scorpions.
Crickets are drawn to lights and enter through small cracks or gaps.
Prevention Tips:
- Use yellow outdoor lighting (less attractive to insects)
- Seal entry points
- Keep garages and storage areas tidy
Professional Protection for a Pest-Free Summer
While some DIY pest control tips can help, summer pests in Southern Arizona are persistent—and some (like scorpions or rodents) require expert attention.
At Bill’s Home Service Company, we’ve been helping local families stay pest-free since 1964. Our licensed technicians use proven methods to protect your home from seasonal invaders and keep your family safe.
✅ General Pest Control
✅ Targeted Scorpion and Spider Treatments
✅ Rodent Monitoring and Exclusion
✅ Weed Management to Reduce Habitats
Don’t wait until pests become a problem—stop them before they get in! Call (520) 625-2381 or contact us to schedule a free inspection today.
