It’s getting warmer in Nevada, which means you can expect a few critters to make an unwelcomed appearance.

This week, Nevada will experience warmer temperatures in high 80s. The desert heat is perfect for certain insects to thrive in. Certain insects like beetles, cockroaches, silverfish and more multiply quickly in the desert.

Insects thrive in temperatures 75 degrees and above, so the rising temperatures mean that more insects will come out. According to Channel 8, once insects, like beetles and cockroaches, come out then scorpions and spiders will start to make an appearance as well. This is because the food source for arachnids are insects like cockroaches, crane flies, gnat flies, etc.

There are a few ways to ensure that insects don’t see your house as their own. According to Dr. Death Pest Control, a local pest control company based in Henderson and Boulder City, they advise to clean your kitchen, disinfect your drains and ensure your food is stored properly. Although simple, these steps can help you avoid a gnat, cockroach, beetle or other bugs in Nevada from infesting your place.

One of the coolest and “natural” insecticides that we found when it comes to fighting off pests is Diatomaceous Earth. This is a powder-like substance that you can find at home improvement stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot or online like Amazon. It’s made out of fossilized remains of small, aquatic organisms called diatoms, and it’s a great tool to fight against bugs in Nevada.

According to the Natural Pesticide Information Center, Diatomaceous Earth products can be used against bed bugs, cockroaches, crickets, fleas, ticks, spiders and many other pests. Diatomaceous Earth destroys the exoskeleton of insects because the particles act like tiny razor blades that cut the insect’s insides. However, you need to be careful with this product because the particles can be dangerous to breathe in.

Another way to get rid of insects is to spray essential oils like clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil, oregano,  mint, and thyme. These oils have been found to have “a range of effects on insect eggs, larvae, nymphs and adults,” according to Entomology Today.

Also, a mixture of boric acid and sugar has been found to be a natural insecticide, too. These are ingredients that can be purchased from most grocery stores, and it’s not as harsh as Raid or other well-known insecticides.

Overall, the Nevada desert is filled with “take-your-breathe-away” creatures. Fortifying your home with an essential oil sealant across corners, under doors and in tight spaces could help battle against insects. Ensuring you don’t give insects the opportunity to live in your home in the first place will help battle the creepy crawly creatures of the desert from taking over.

If you’re interested in learning about some of the critters that call Nevada home then scroll down below!