As the summer heat peaks in Hermosa Valley, the two most active pests right now are Argentine ants and roof rats. The hot, dry weather (85°F average) drives ants to seek moisture and food indoors, especially in the slab foundations of 1950s-60s ranch homes where they enter through cracks and expansion joints. The greenbelt and landscaped yards along the Hermosa Beach Greenbelt provide ideal habitat for these ants, which thrive in the clay-loam soil that retains some moisture despite the heat. Roof rats, meanwhile, are active in the attics of stucco homes, exploiting gaps in eaves and rooflines, and are particularly drawn to the fruit trees and lush vegetation common in the valley. Their activity increases in August as they search for food and water, and the nearby greenbelt offers a corridor for them to move between yards.

Homeowners should look for trails of ants along baseboards, countertops, or the foundation, and check for tiny piles of dirt or sand near cracks. For rats, listen for scratching or scurrying sounds in the attic at dusk, look for droppings near food sources (like pet food or birdseed), and inspect for gnaw marks on wood or wiring, especially around the roofline and eaves. Also, check for rat runways along fences and branches that overhang roofs, particularly near the greenbelt. If you notice any of these signs, act quickly to prevent infestations. Below are the top-rated Hermosa Beach exterminators who specialize in these specific seasonal threats.