Summertime Pest Control in California

Summer is one of the most active seasons for gophers, moles, and voles in California, as dry conditions drive these pests into irrigated lawns and landscaped properties. Homeowners in areas like the Bay Area, Napa County, and surrounding regions often notice increased tunneling, mounds, and plant damage during the summer months.

Addressing pest activity early in the summer can help limit damage and reduce ongoing problems through the rest of the season.

Understanding Why Pest Activity Increases During Summer

After the primary breeding season in spring, gophers, moles, and voles often expand their activity during the dry summer months. As natural food sources dry up in open areas, these pests are drawn into irrigated residential landscapes, where moisture and plant roots are more readily available.

Summertime is typically the busiest season for pest control across Northern California, including the Bay Area and Napa County, due to this shift in behavior. Increased activity can show up as new dirt mounds, surface tunneling, or damage to lawns and garden areas.

For gophers in particular, if we come out and determine there to be an excessive amount of activity we offer a separate service called a clean up. It is a more intensive treatment that involves us using a combination of baiting and trapping to gain better control of the larger gopher population.

   

We experienced a huge boom in vole activity last year after all the rains, luckily this year has not been as severe but we are still seeing a fair amount of activity. We have expanded our pricing to cover a larger amount of vole activity with our one time vole baiting service. The vole bait we use is deactivated by water so this service does require the water to be shut off to the treated area for 2 or 3 days. We understand that this can be difficult during summer but if you water the area the day before we come out it shouldn’t be an issue!

Homeowners enrolled in our ongoing gopher, mole, and vole control program benefit from year-round monitoring and seasonal adjustments designed to address increased summer activity.

Summer Pest Control FAQs

Why are gophers and moles more active during summer?

Dry summer conditions reduce natural food sources in open areas, which often pushes gophers and moles into irrigated lawns and landscaped properties in search of moisture and roots.

Is summer a good time for pest control in California?

Yes. While activity may be more noticeable in summer, pest control during this season can help limit damage and prevent ongoing issues later in the year.

Does irrigation attract gophers and voles?

Irrigated landscapes can be more attractive to burrowing pests during dry periods because they provide consistent moisture and food sources.

Do you offer summer pest control services in my area?

Yes. Gopher Team provides summer pest control services throughout Northern California, including the Bay Area, Napa County, and surrounding regions.

 

Dealing With Increased Pest Activity This Summer?

Help Is Available During Peak Season

Summer pest activity can escalate quickly, especially in irrigated landscapes. If you’re noticing new mounds, tunnels, or plant damage, our team can help assess the situation and recommend appropriate next steps.