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Paper wasps, like many other wasps, are attracted to sweet smells that remind them of nectar. That’s why wasps may buzz around you as you snack on watermelon on the patio. They may also like the scent of certain perfumes. Standing water attracts these wasps, too.

Paper wasps are also attracted to warm, sheltered spaces, where they can build nests and raise larva in protected areas away from predators. They may also be attracted to untreated wood on your deck or fence, as they use wood pulp to build nests.

Termites are most active and cause the most damage during the spring and summer, as warm temperatures and increased moisture accelerate their activity. This is also when swarming typically occurs, allowing colonies to expand. However, termites remain active year-round, especially in warmer climates or heated homes. Once a colony is established, it can continue to damage wood 365 days a year, even during cold weather.

Attempting to kill a black widow spider can pose a significant health risk. When these arachnids feel threatened, they are more likely to attack, increasing your chances of getting bit. It's better to trap the spider and release it from a location far away from your residence.

Gophers are ubiquitous in certain areas, and the only way to completely get rid of them is to put down gopher wire two feet below the surface of your soil and vertically along the edges of your yard. Unfortunately, this may not be a practical solution unless you’re completely redoing your yard or installing an aboveground garden. Alternatively, you may consider putting underground rock barriers around the edge of your yard to discourage gopher visits. However, you’ll still likely get some pests because they can dig as deep as 6 feet below the surface.