A lot of people think that as the weather becomes milder, pest activity will decrease. However, this is not the case. Cooler weather for rodents, insects, and other pests indicates the coming of winter. Thus, pests seek warm, sheltered locations and your house offers what they need. However, for experts at Pestcom Pest Management, this is just too much.
Common Fall Pests that Invade Homes
Fall brings different species of pests. Below are pests that may come near or enter your house as the days get colder:
- Fire ants. You probably think that the cooler temperatures in fall would push fire ants to dormancy. However, the truth is that these ants create huge mounds near the foundation of buildings and enter through the tiniest cracks. When disturbed, these species will sting several times, leaving you dealing with painful welts.
- Asian lady beetles. These invasive pests look like North American ladybugs. However, some differences can make these pests a nuisance once they take up residence in your house in droves. Although they are not dangerous, they leave a funky odor and wall stain when stressed.
- Spiders. Spiders in the fall build webs and lay eggs. A female spider can produce dozens of eggs at a time. The presence of spiders in your house means flies and other insects are also present.
- Rodents. Rats and mice can create issues indoors and outdoors. Aside from being unsanitary, these rodents may carry diseases that they can transmit to people and pets. Also, they are active in the fall as they search for warm, dry places where they can nest.
Pest Control Tips
Fall is the perfect time to prepare your house for the coming year. During this season, pests are actively seeking spaces and you want them to stay away from your abode. Here are pest control tips you should consider to keep pests at bay in the fall:
- Limited mulch and outdoor plant. Plants make great hiding spots for many types of pests. A lot of these creatures consume wood or leaf mulch. To limit the supply, cut plants back and use gravel and rocks for mulch.
- Check for gaps and cracks. Check the trim, siding, and foundation for any sign of damage. Make all the necessary repairs before pests can enter through those gaps and cracks.
- Seal doors and windows. Pests can still find their way inside even if the doors and windows are closed. This can happen if there are gaps and torn screens.
- Dispose of trash. Before you toss trash in the kitchen garbage, rinse them first. This way, they do not attract pests, particularly in warmer months. If possible, try to compost food scraps. Reduce, bag, and place anything that goes to the curb in covered collection bins.
- Clear the drains. Every living creature needs water for survival. Thus, if pests are in your home, they will go to the kitchen drain to find water and food bits. To prevent this from happening, flush the kitchen drain every day.
- Store food in sealed containers. For every food and type of packaging, there is a pest. Although a lot of pests eat through plastic, glass, or metal containers that have covers can deter pests, particularly when stored in high places.
Choosing a Pest Control Company
The best pest control company to partner with adopts integrated pest management, which is an eco-sensitive approach. This pest control approach depends on updated information about the lifecycles and environmental interactions of pests. A reputable company focuses on offering exceptional pest control services that combine various methods and uses the most economical means without causing too much impact on people, the environment, and pets.
