As the dry August heat bakes the Hollywood Hills, two pests are particularly active right now: roof rats and drywood termites. The hot, rainless weather drives roof rats to seek water and cooler shelter, and our canyon homes with attics and crawlspaces—especially those mid-century moderns with flat roofs and overhanging eaves—provide ideal nesting sites. The rugged terrain, with its oak woodlands and chaparral, offers abundant food and harborage, so rats thrive along the winding streets like Mulholland Drive and Laurel Canyon Boulevard, often traveling along utility lines and tree branches to access roofs. Meanwhile, drywood termites are swarming in the warm, dry conditions, and the wood-frame and stucco construction common in the Hills, particularly in older homes with exposed beams or wooden decks, is at high risk. The proximity of natural vegetation to structures creates a bridge for these pests, and the steep slopes and rocky soil can hide termite activity in foundations and support beams. Homeowners should watch for droppings near food sources or in attics, gnaw marks on wires or wood, and the presence of winged insects near windows or lights, which indicate termite swarms. Also, look for hollow-sounding wood, blistering paint, or mud tubes on exterior walls. With the fire season also in mind, it's crucial to address these infestations promptly, as rats can chew through electrical wiring, increasing fire risk. Below are the top-rated Los Angeles exterminators who specialize in these specific seasonal threats.