When the weather turns cold, the idea of being warm and cozy appeals to both pests and humans. Rodents, cockroaches, and spiders are just a few of the pests that will try to make their way indoors when temperatures drop. As the fall season approaches, remember to pest-proof your house to keep unwanted pests out.
Every fall, pests, and rodents go into survival mode and search for a warm place to wait out the winter. If your home is not properly guarded against these pests, you will have a serious pest problem on your hands.
Types of Fall Pests
Ants
No matter what time of year, ants are always looking for food. Since ants hibernate for the winter months, fall is their last time to find food before they go dormant. You will most likely find ants in your kitchen around stored pantry items or looking for crumbs and spills that have gone unnoticed.
Rodents
As the weather cools, mice and rats will seek shelter indoors. They are crafty creatures and can squeeze their bodies through almost any size hole to get inside. Walls, closets, and attics are all inviting places for them to hide. If you notice any scratching or gnawing sounds search for possible intruders. Rodents also carry numerous diseases and can chew insulation and wiring in your home.
Stinging Insects
After working all summer to build their nests, stinging insects are the largest during the fall months. Just like with most pests, they are preparing their bodies for the winter months. They go from needing protein to carbs. Additionally, their natural food source such as flowers and other insects start to die in the cooler months. These changing factors cause stinging insects to seek out artificial food sources making them more of a nuisance for outdoor occasions, such as football tailgates, barbecues, and festivals.
Prevention
Put a screen on attic vents, chimneys, and other openings that lead outdoors like mail slots and animal doors.
Keep basements, attics, and crawls spaces well ventilated and dry.
Keep kitchen counters clean, store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly.
Replace weather-stripping and seal any cracks in your foundation.
Avoid leaving pet food dishes out for long periods of time.
Additionally, keep an eye out for standing water in or around your home (this is a pest’s favorite place to hang around), and any wear and tear on your home. A pest will take any open window, door, or broken screen as a sign to enter your home.
Call Anver Pest Control today for a free home inspection! We will curate a plan that is specific to your needs and make sure your home is ready for the new season.