The Most Common Pests to See in the Fall

The end of summer isn’t the end of pests. Though certain pest populations do diminish during cooler weather, many continue to thrive in the fall and winter months. Cooler weather drives pests to seek indoor shelter and food. By following a few simple tips you can keep your home secure and free from the most common fall pests, before you need urgent pest control!

Stink Bugs

Brown marmorated stink bugs are out in full force during the fall months. Actively seeking shelter, they can hide in personal belongings and cars to make their way indoors. Always check your belongings before bringing them indoors and pay attention to windows and doors, keeping them in good condition.

Stink bugs do not transmit diseases, but they can damage clothing, furniture and other materials. When disturbed, squashed or frightened they emit a strong odor to repel predators. This can smell up a home quickly. The smell also draws more stink bugs to the area, so thorough cleaning is necessary if a stink bug is squashed.

Rats and Mice

Small rodents seek out warmth and food in an effort to survive the upcoming winter months. Known to spread diseases, rats and mice are often accompanied by fleas, ticks, mites and lice. Building nests in insulation and chewing through wiring can cause further issues.

Rats and mice can fit through spaces smaller than a nickel and reproduce quickly. Prevent these creatures from entering your home by storing food in airtight containers and sealing all cracks around the foundation of your home. If an infestation is suspected, contact a pest professional immediately.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can hide in a variety of objects and surfaces, including clothing, suitcases, schoolbags and more. Entering the home and reproducing quickly, bed bugs can become a serious problem. Although not known to carry diseases, bed bugs can leave behind itchy welts on their victims. An infestation can cause serious discomfort.

Minimize the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home by paying close attention to your surroundings. When in public places it’s important to keep personal belongings off the floor and check suitcases and bags before bringing them back into your home. One of the most difficult pests to control, a bed bug infestation often requires the assistance of a pest professional.

Cockroaches

One of the most common and well-known pests, cockroaches have the potential to spread a variety of different bacteria. They can also trigger asthma attacks. Often found near pipes and drains, keep kitchens and bathrooms sanitized to avoid a cockroach infestation. Continuously check cracks and vacuum frequently for further protection.

Ants

A variety of ant types can be found around the home during the fall months. Actively seeking indoor shelter and food for the upcoming winter season, ants can cause real harm to a home. Odorous house ants can contaminate food and carpenter ants can destroy the structure of your home.

To prevent an ant infestation, store food in airtight containers, eliminate sources of standing water and keeping trees and plants trimmed. Building materials and firewood should also be stored in a secured area and checked regularly.

Ensure you have a pest-free fall by avoiding the most common fall pests, including stink bugs, rodents, bed bugs, cockroaches and ants. Check any objects or personal belongings that are brought into your home and regularly maintain secure windows and doors.

If pests find a way into your home, contact a pest professional for further assistance.