Here in Minnesota, we’re pretty well-acquainted with the insect world. We all know bugs are incredibly great for the environment in so many ways. Some pollinate. Others eat smaller, harmful bugs. There are even a few that are just pretty neat to look at.
Unfortunately, they can also bite, sting, startle and annoy - especially when they blaze trails into our homes!
Like it or not, bugs will get in from time to time. But, there are steps we can take to keep them out - including screens for all types of windows, doors and more.
With this in mind, here’s a little info about our state’s most notorious little pests, and some advice for keeping them where they belong!
MOSQUITOS
It’s possible there isn’t another insect more obnoxious and omnipresent here in our state than the mosquito. Besides leaving behind their trademark itching, raised bites, mosquitoes are notorious disease vectors. In fact, they’re the world’s most prolific disease-spreader, responsible for hundreds of millions of illness case every year worldwide.
And, bug spray notwithstanding, there’s really nothing we can do about it; according to National Geographic, mosquitoes are drawn to our breath, our movement and our body temperatures. A great way to keep them away from us? A thin, well-installed screen of course!
BEES
My mother always told me - if you don’t swat at the bee, it won’t sting you. Still, these pests can be quite startling, and when they strike, the results are painful. And, pain’s only part of the problem; for example, when honey bees sting, they release chemicals called pheromones. These pheromones are very appealing to nearby bees and prompt them to join in on the attack. So, a single bee sting can multiply rapidly. Not good. So, if you want to sit near your summery, blooming plants and flowers without the worry of a bee armada, consider a screen as a good line of defense.
BOXELDER BUGS
Here’s a name you’ve definitely heard before. Boxelder bugs are those black and red beetles that seem to show up all at once when the weather gets warm. While they’re not known for hurting humans, they cause a ton of damage to plants, and can make unsightly colonies out of the sides of your home. Plus, if they do approach you, and you decide to smash them, they release a foul odor. None of this sounding fun to you? Consider a retractable screen buffer and enjoy the outdoor - minus these pests.
