May 2026 Newsletter
From the Desk of Tom
As we move into the spring season, one of the most common calls we receive involves carpenter ants. Many homeowners assume the ants are simply "coming in from outside" — but in reality, carpenter ants are often trying to tell us something important about the condition of the home.
Carpenter ants are strongly attracted to moisture-damaged areas. Water leaks around windows, roofs, plumbing, or poorly ventilated spaces can create ideal conditions for colonies to expand. Once moisture becomes established inside walls or structural wood, carpenter ants may begin building satellite colonies within the home.
Worker ants will actively forage through kitchens and living spaces searching for food. Seeing them near sinks, dishwashers, pet bowls, or countertops can sometimes be the first visible sign of a larger hidden issue.
One of the best things homeowners can do this time of year is pay close attention to moisture problems. Fixing leaks early, improving drainage around the foundation, and addressing damp areas quickly can help prevent much larger pest problems down the road.
Our goal is not just treating pests — it's helping identify the conditions that allow them to thrive in the first place.
Pest of the Month: Carpenter Ants
As the weather warms up, carpenter ants become much more active throughout New England. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood — but they do tunnel through it to create nesting galleries. Over time, this can lead to serious damage inside walls, window frames, decks, and other structural areas.
One of the biggest things carpenter ants are searching for this time of year is moisture. Water leaks, damp crawl spaces, condensation issues, clogged gutters, or rotting wood around windows and doors can create the perfect environment for a colony to begin expanding.
Homeowners often first notice carpenter ants in kitchens, bathrooms, or near sinks as worker ants forage for food and water. If they discover a damp area inside the home, they may establish a satellite colony nearby.
Common signs of carpenter ant activity include:
- Large black ants indoors, especially at night
- Rustling noises inside walls
- Small piles of sawdust-like material called "frass"
- Increased ant activity near moisture-damaged wood
The best protection is early detection and correcting moisture problems before colonies become established. Repairing leaks, improving ventilation, and eliminating damp wood conditions can make a huge difference in preventing carpenter ant infestations.
Animal of the Month: Raccoons
As temperatures warm up across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, raccoon activity increases significantly around homes and neighborhoods. One of the most common complaints this time of year is overturned trash cans and garbage scattered across yards overnight.
Raccoons are incredibly intelligent and persistent animals. Standard trash can lids are often no challenge for them, especially once they learn a food source is available. After a single successful night, they will usually continue returning to the same property.
The best protection is keeping trash containers inside a secure area such as a garage or shed until pickup day whenever possible. If indoor storage is not available, tightly securing lids with straps, bungee cords, or rope can help reduce access.
Without proper protection, homeowners may wake up to:
- Trash spread throughout the yard
- Torn garbage bags
- Damage to lids and containers
- Increased odors and insect activity
- Repeat nightly visits from raccoons and other wildlife
Spring is also the time when female raccoons begin searching for protected nesting areas for their young. Chimneys are one of their favorite locations. Female raccoons can climb porch posts, siding, or nearby trees and enter by climbing down the chimney flue.
Some common warning signs include:
- Footprints or muddy marks on porch posts or siding
- Noises coming from the chimney or fireplace area
- Crying, chirping, or scratching sounds inside the fireplace
- Strong odors developing near the hearth
If you hear crying noises in the fireplace, there is a good chance a female raccoon has moved into the chimney with her young. Proper chimney caps are one of the best ways to prevent this type of wildlife issue before nesting season begins.
A little prevention now can save a lot of cleanup later — because nobody wants to start the morning picking coffee grounds and chicken bones out of the hydrangeas.
Rat Activity Update
We are continuing to see expanding rat activity throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. While cities and urban environments have always been common hotspots, we are now seeing increased burrowing and feeding activity in residential neighborhoods that normally would not experience this level of pressure.
One growing concern is the expansion of rat burrows into landscaped areas, retaining walls, under sheds, and around foundations in suburban communities. Rats are highly adaptable and will take advantage of easily available food and shelter wherever they can find it.
Homeowners should pay close attention to their outdoor trash containers. One of the early warning signs of rat activity is chewing near the bottom edges of trash cans or around lids. Rats can quickly enlarge small openings to gain access to food sources.
Other signs to watch for include:
- Burrows near foundations, patios, or sheds
- Droppings around trash storage areas
- Gnaw marks on plastic containers or wood
- Pet food or bird seed disappearing unusually fast
- Grease marks along walls or fencing
Reducing accessible food sources, keeping lids tightly secured, and addressing burrowing activity early can help prevent a small issue from becoming a much larger infestation.
Not Sure What You're Seeing?
Seasonal pest and wildlife activity is predictable — but it's not always easy to tell what's normal and what isn't. If something seems off, it's worth taking a closer look. Learn more by requesting an evaluation below!