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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.

Termites are most active and cause the most damage in the spring and summer, when 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. An established colony can continue to damage wood 365 days a year, even during cold weather.

Squash bugs don’t bite humans or pets. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts are designed specifically for feeding on plants, not people. While they can be a major nuisance in the garden, they pose no direct physical threat to you, and you don’t need to worry about bites, stings, or venom from these pests.

The signs of a bed bug infestation include itchy, red bite marks on the skin and various forms of physical evidence on or near your bed. Look for reddish or rust-colored stains on sheets from crushed bed bugs, as well as small, dark fecal droppings. You might also find the bugs themselves, their tiny eggs, or the pale, molted skins (casings) they leave behind. In some cases, a persistent musty odor may be present. If you notice any of these signs, calling a professional exterminator is the most effective way to handle the infestation.