Spring in Arizona arrives early — by late February, daytime temperatures in the Phoenix metro are already climbing into the 70s, and the pest activity that slowed in winter begins to accelerate. March, April, and May are critical months for pest prevention because this is when populations are building toward their summer peaks. Getting ahead of the season with a professional treatment in late February or March is far more effective than reacting to an established infestation in July. Here is what to expect as Arizona spring unfolds. Bark scorpions begin active foraging in March as nighttime temperatures climb above 60 degrees. This is also when last year's young scorpions are reaching reproductive maturity and beginning to establish their own territories.

Termite swarmers — the winged reproductive forms of both subterranean and drywood termites — emerge in spring, typically after the first warm rains. Seeing swarmers around your home does not necessarily mean you have an active infestation, but it does mean termites are present in your area and your home should be inspected. Ants become highly active in spring, with harvester ants building new mounds in yards and Argentine ants forming new satellite colonies. Fire ant activity also increases significantly in spring. Roof rats that have been nesting in attics through winter become more active and begin foraging more aggressively as temperatures warm. Spring is also when pack rats begin building or expanding their stick nests in garages and under vehicles.

The best spring pest control strategy is a preventive perimeter treatment applied in late February or early March, before populations build. This creates a chemical barrier that kills pests crossing it and eliminates the prey insects that attract scorpions and other predators. Pest Control Bros provides spring startup treatments across Maricopa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa. Free inspections, no contracts — start the season right.