Boat Docks And The Bugs They Attract

There are several types of bugs that can be found around boat docks, including spiders, termites, cockroaches, and dock bugs. Spiders are commonly found on boats, docks, and wharves, where they build their webs to catch flying insects. They are large, with long striped legs and huge oblong abdomens, and are often a source of fear for people. Another bug that is commonly found near boat docks is the dock bug, which feeds on the leaves and seeds of docks and sorrels. They are medium-sized, speckled brown insects with a broad abdomen, and can be found in dense vegetation such as hedgerows and wastelands. Cockroaches and termites can also be a problem in boats and docks, especially if there is cardboard or other food sources present. Overall, there are a variety of bugs that can be found near boat docks, and proper pest control measures should be taken to prevent infestations.

Spiders

Dock spiders, also known as fishing or wharf spiders, are typically dark brown or black and have long striped legs with huge oblong abdomens. Their legs are longer than their abdomen, usually about three times the length. For example, if the body is 1 inch, the legs can span up to 3 inches. They are considered large spiders, and their appearance can be frightening to some.

Dock spiders are nocturnal hunters, spinning tent-like webs to catch their prey, which consists of various insects found near water sources. They are excellent swimmers and can even walk on water due to their water-repellent hairs. While they are not known to cause property damage or pose a significant threat to humans, they can bite when provoked or threatened.

To prevent and control dock spider infestations, there are several methods you can employ:

• Regularly sweep your dock to remove spiders, egg sacks, and cobwebs.
• Power wash your dock to clean hard-to-reach areas between boards.
• Remove clutter and debris from the dock to reduce hiding places.
• Trim or remove low-hanging tree branches near the dock, as spiders use these to access the area.
• Reduce light sources on and around the dock, as spiders are attracted to light.
• Use natural repellents like vinegar, citrus oil, or a mixture of dish soap and water to spray on the dock.
• Try commercial spider repellents, insecticides, or insecticidal soap.
• Set up glue traps or insect traps specifically designed for spiders.
• Cover your boat with a fine mesh boat cover or spider netting to prevent spiders from crawling inside.
• Use ultrasonic spider repellent devices, but be aware that their effectiveness is not conclusively proven.

Cockroaches

To prevent cockroaches from infesting your boat, it is important to deny them what they are seeking. This includes:

• Not leaving any food debris or crumbs lying around.
• Wiping up any beverage spills immediately.
• Storing food in sealed airtight containers, glass, or durable plastic.
• Regularly wiping down surfaces.
• Properly disposing of garbage.
• Cleaning food preparation areas with dish soap and water to remove grease.
• Eliminating moisture, especially around the boat sink.
• Sealing any gaps, holes, cracks, and crevices that could harbour cockroaches.
• Inspecting all incoming bags, shoes, coolers, luggage, and cardboard boxes.

If cockroaches are already on your boat, there are several methods to get rid of them:

• Boric acid mixed with water and sugar: This paste can be placed in small dishes or bottle caps around the boat. The cockroaches will ingest the boric acid and die within 72 hours.
• Roach "motels" from hardware stores: Place these traps inside cupboards and corners of the boat.
• "Bombing" the boat: Using foggers or aerosol canisters to fill the vessel with poisonous mist. This method requires vacating the boat for several hours and may need to be repeated.
• Professional pest control services: They can provide licensed and insured services that are safe for both people and marine life.
• Borax paste: A mixture of boric acid, milk powder, and water can be formed into small balls and placed in lockers.
• Professional pest control products: Products like Black Flag syringes filled with goo can be applied to areas where cockroaches are likely to go. The cockroaches eat the goo and subsequently die.

Ants

Finding the Source

Before you can effectively get rid of the ants, you need to find their nest. Carpenter ants, for example, are attracted to damp wood, so older boats with rotting wood are more likely to be infested. These ants don't eat the wood but tunnel through it to create nests.

The best time to look for carpenter ants is at sunset when they leave their nests to forage for food. Use a flashlight to spot them and follow them back to their nest.

Getting Rid of the Ants

Once you've found the nest, you have several options for getting rid of the ants:

• Ant Dust Powder and Insecticide: Use an insecticide spray or ant dust powder on the ants and their nest, following the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to keep these products away from children and pets.
• Bug Bomb or Fog: If the infestation is severe, you may need to call a professional pest control service. They will seal up your boat and release a fog of ant poison, leaving it sealed for several days to kill the ants.
• Liquid Ant Killer Patches: These patches contain boric acid, which is toxic to ants but safe for humans in small doses. The ants are attracted to the sweetness of the patches and take the poison back to their nest, destroying the colony.
• Ant Baits: Similar to liquid patches, these plastic containers hold a sticky liquid that only ants can access. They are safer to use around children and pets and can be left out for up to three months.
• Boric Acid Mixture: Mix boric acid with water and sugar and place the mixture in small jar lids around your boat. The ants will be attracted to the sugar, and the boric acid will kill them.
• Engine Lubrication Oil: Soak a rag in engine lubrication oil and wrap it around your dock lines to prevent ants from climbing up.

Preventing Future Infestations

To prevent ants from infesting your boat again, follow these tips:

• Keep your boat clean, especially food storage areas and containers.
• Wash dishes and produce clean trash. Ensure trash bags are sealed correctly.
• Store food in airtight containers or sealable bags, especially sugary treats and pet food.
• Don't leave food out in the open.
• Don't store your boat under a tree, as ants can climb trees to access your boat.
• Check incoming bags and cardboard boxes for ants and eggs.

Termites

If you suspect a termite infestation, it is important to take action immediately. Boat owners who don't frequently use their craft should be especially vigilant, as infestations can quickly grow out of control. Tenting is one possible solution, but a pest control service may be able to advise on other options.

To prevent termite infestations, regular inspections are key. Boat and yacht owners should inspect their vessels at least once a year, paying particular attention to exterior cabinets and furniture, and the engine compartment, as these are common areas for termite infestations.

Flies

Boat flies, also known as midges, are typically small and black, with a short lifespan of only a few weeks. They are non-biting insects, but they are attracted to the smell of food and can be a major annoyance when buzzing around people and landing on food. They are also attracted to light and can be found in large numbers around boats and docks.

There are several species of flies that are commonly found around boats, including the common house fly, the stable fly, and the black fly. Stable flies are particularly problematic as they bite, with mouthparts that cut the skin to lap up blood. They thrive in warm, moist environments and are often found near livestock or animals, but when they can't find them, they bite human legs.

To prevent boat flies from becoming a problem, it is important to take steps to reduce their numbers. This includes keeping food and trash covered, disposing of waste properly, and using insect repellents. Boaters can also wear long sleeves and pants to cover their skin and avoid bites. Additionally, some boaters use special traps and devices to keep flies away from their boats.

• Regularly clean your boat, especially the galley and cockpit area.
• Clean up spills and crumbs immediately.
• Keep your boat dry as flies are attracted to moisture.
• Use fly repellent sprays or essential oils such as citronella, lavender, and peppermint.
• Hang fly strips in areas where flies are likely to be found.

In conclusion, while boat flies can be a nuisance, they can be controlled with the right treatment options. Taking the proper precautions will help boaters enjoy their time on the water without being bothered by these pesky insects.

Frequently asked questions