With spring come more bugs, other critters

But there are things you can do to lessen risks

All the perks of warm weather come at a cost: the return of critters.

As temperatures rise, here is a list of animals and insects that reawaken during the springtime and could cause you problems in Iowa.

Ants

Wrap up your fruits and sweet treats: An Iowa springtime is sure to bring ants. House ants are also attracted to water and they often enter a house through bathroom or kitchen sinks, according to Terminix.

Multicolored Asian lady beetle

You’re probably thinking “what gives?” It seemed like ladybugs were active in the fall.

That’s because in the spring, ladybugs are coming out of hibernating, making it a common time for infestations. In the fall they are drawn to warmth. And the ones you are starting to see now are the same ones you couldn’t kill in the fall, according to Iowa State University.

Take comfort in the fact that these spotted bugs don’t breed in homes. Light traps are recommended for catching them.

Stink bug

There are multiple species of stink bugs. The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species to Iowa and North America. After spending winter months hiding, these bugs often reoccur during March through September, according to Orkin.

Closing all cracks and gaps in households while keeping screens and windows properly sealed will prevent the odorous insect from infiltrating your home.

Raccoons

It seems as though trash pandas are always running around in the cover of darkness regardless of the season. But, spring makes for the ideal repopulation time. Raccoon mating occurs from January to June, with the majority of babies being born in April and May, according to the Wildlife Rescue League. They eat anything from berries to vegetables to egg and grasses.

Iowa has seen an increase of complaints about raccoons, and some have disturbed agriculture operations, resulting in open season hunting for them.

Snakes

There are 28 species of snakes in Iowa, according to Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Naturally, the cold-blooded species conclude the hibernation as temperatures increase. But don’t worry: Only four of the 28 Iowa snakes are considered dangerous to pets and humans. The most common snake in the state is the garter, with a thin yellow stripe down its neck.

To avoid running into these backyard serpents, keep your lawn short and remove any wood piles or debris.

JASON J. MOLYET/NEWS JOURNAL They’re back! The multicolored Asian lady beetle is considered an invasive species, but it is also a predator of aphids and other pests. The beetles are known for congregating on homes and buildings and many of these insects eventually find a way inside.