AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) – This summer’s excessive rain and humidity has caused an increase in unwanted insects in many homes.

The appearance of ants inside homes during the summer is not uncommon, but homeowners seem to be noticing more than usual. Entomologist Bob Russell from American Pest Solutions in Agawam told 22News, that carpenter ants are more likely to invade your home if the wood is moist because they find it more suitable to set up colonies and nest in.

All of this rain and lack of sun has caused more ants to make their way inside. Russell says there are preventive measures you can take.

Make sure your vegetation is cut away from the structure. “We see a lot of people’s homes that have high vegetation, weeds, and other things growing up against the structure, well that’s trapping moisture in and that’s giving ants and other insects access into the structure easily,” said Russel.

He also says that daily use of fans and dehumidifiers can help keep these pests away.

Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on Twitter @kayleighcthomas and view her bio to see more of her work.