Common Pests You’ll See this Fall in Northern Virginia
The fall season is almost upon us here in Northern Virginia, and as the summer wanes, so do those pesky summer pests. With the arrival of cooler temperatures, however, comes a whole new host of critters too.
Fall pests can be an extreme yet unavoidable annoyance to homeowners. While these creatures are bothersome year-round, they can be particularly troubling as the cooler weather might drive them into your house. Be sure to keep an eye out for the following home invaders:
Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are a nuisance because they enter homes and other buildings, often in large numbers. You might not notice them during summer, but they can become an issue when they try to move into homes during fall to find a warm place to hide for winter.
Boxelder bugs belong to the same family as stink bugs, cicadas and other insects with piercing and sucking mouthparts. They release a bad odor when crushed. The best time to control them is in the fall and is most effective by sealing openings and the timely use of insecticides. They normally do not cause property damage but they can potentially stain surfaces. Once they are indoors, the only practical control is physical removal. They are not a serious problem every year.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
The brown marmorated stink bug is a pest that was accidentally introduced into the United States from its native range in Japan, Korea, and China. The word ”marmorated” refers to its marble-like coloration. The brown marmorated stink bug feeds on fruits, seeds, stems, and leaves of a wide range of plants. It is also a nuisance pest that invades buildings in the autumn.
The brown marmorated stink bug can be excluded from homes and buildings by sealing cracks and other openings in buildings. If bugs are entering the living areas of the home, the openings where the insects gain access first should be located and sealed. Cracks or openings should be sealed with caulk to prevent entry by stink bugs. Torn window screens should be repaired, and window-mounted air conditioners should be removed for the winter.
Spiders
When small insects and other tiny pests enter your home, they can also attract spiders. While most spiders are harmless and will actually help you eliminate some fall pests, there are some dangerous species of spiders like brown recluses and black widows.
While you can address spiders in your home by eliminating other pests first and destroying any webs that appear indoors, you should contact professionals if you identify any dangerous species in your home or think you might have a spider infestation.
Rodents
Rodents are one of the most common fall pests. Be sure to seal any cracks or openings in your home’s exterior, because once these pests enter your home they can cause lots of damage and a variety of (potentially expensive) issues. They are also unsanitary and carry disease.
Once they enter your home, rodents tend to chew through wires, damage insulation, break drywall, urinate and spread feces. Rodents also multiply rather quickly, so a singular rodent in your home can quickly turn into a number of rodents in a short period of time. In the event that rodents are multiplying in your home, you should seek out pest control services right away.
Pest Problem? Contact Us!
It’s very likely that you’ll encounter at least one of these common pests this fall. When you do, we’re here to help. At Alexandria Pest Services, we provide dependable pest control services in Northern Virginia. Call in the Pros to Get Rid of Pests for Good! If you find that you are having a problem with insects, rodents, termites, or other pests and need an exterminator, call Alexandria Pest Services at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional evaluation. We can help you get rid of these invaders in your home or office! Contact us today to learn more.
