The Pests of Fall

As summer comes to an end, folks often think their battle with pests does as well. While certain pest populations do diminish with cooler weather, many continue to thrive and begin to seek food and shelter indoors. In fact, we receive an increase in pest-related calls from homeowners every Fall.

So as you enjoy the change in weather and gear up for football games and autumn festivals, we want to share the top five most prevalent pests we expect to see this fall along with tips for keeping them outside where they belong.

 Rodents

Two of the most common fall intruders are mice and rats. Just like us, they need warmth and food to survive the winter. These cunning little invaders have the unique ability to fit through cracks as small as a nickel, making small spaces and holes in the foundation easy entryways.

They pose a concern because they can spread diseases, build nests in insulation and chew through wiring causing fires. Plus, they rarely travel alone, often bringing fleas, mites, ticks and lice along with them creating even more issues.

To prevent an infestation:

• Always store food in airtight containers
• Seal all cracks around the foundation of your home

 

Click here for more on these furry frustrations and how to stop them. Rodents reproduce extremely quickly, so if an infestation is suspected, a pest professional should be contacted immediately. 

Stink Bugs

Brown marmorated stink bugs will definitely be out in force this fall, actively seeking shelter from the cooler weather. While they don't transmit diseases, bite or sting, these "stinky" pests can damage clothing, furniture and other fabrics with their droppings. 

They are so named because they emit a strong odor when frightened, disturbed or squashed to repel predators. They are also a bit lazy, preferring to hide in personal belongings and cars in order to make their way indoors.

To prevent an infestation:

• Always check your personal belongings before bringing them inside
• Make sure all screen doors and windows are in good repair 

 

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs become an increasing problem in the fall as people go to sporting events, family gatherings and back to school. With all this travel, we are likely to see an increase in home infestations. 

Notorious hitchhikers, bed bugs will catch a ride on clothing, suitcases and even schoolbags to enter the home. Although not thought to spread disease, bed bugs can leave behind itchy welts on their victims and there can be lasting emotional and psychological effects from an infestation.

To prevent an infestation:

• Always inspect hotel rooms before unpacking
• Keep personal belongings off the floor in public places
• Check all suitcases before bringing them back in the home

 

Learn more about the risks associated with these bed bugs here. Bed bugs are one of the most difficult pests to control, so if an infestation is suspected, a pest professional should be contacted immediately.

Ants

Many types of ants can be found in and around the home during the fall months, and some can cause real harm. Odorous house ants can contaminate food, and carpenter ants can damage the structure of a home.

They’ll also take any opportunity to ruin your outdoor plans, like picnics and tailgates. Taking the right steps to prevent ants can mean the difference between an autumn full of fun and one full of frustration.

To prevent an infestation:

• Seal all cracks around your home’s foundation
• Store food in airtight containers
• Sweep floors often
• Eliminate sources of standing water
• Keep tree branches and plants cut back from your house
• Don’t store firewood or building materials next to your home
• Don’t store firewood in the home overnight

 

Click here for more prevention tips.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are definitely one of the most common and most dangerous pests on our list. They have the potential to spread 33 different kinds of bacteria and can trigger asthma attacks in children.

Roaches are active in temperatures 70 degrees or higher, so as the temperature drops outside, expect to see them in your climate-controlled house, especially in your basement or around pipes and drains.

To prevent an infestation:

• Keep kitchens and bathrooms sanitized
• Vacuum frequently
• Ensure that all cracks around the home are sealed

 

To learn more about the dangerous effects of cockroach infestations, click here.

We hope these tips will help ensure you have a pest-free fall, but if any bugs from this notorious bunch find their way into your home, remember to contact a pest professional immediately.