What You Need to Know About Fall Pests
Summer flew by, and it’s almost fall — time for back-to-school, everything pumpkin, and unfortunately, fall pests.
Fall is the time of year to dig out your jackets and close-toed shoes, and other warm clothing that has been stored away during the hot summer months. But humans aren’t the only ones looking for ways to keep warm.
The moment it feels like the temperature is starting to drop, pests enter their fall mode. Pests change their behavior to prepare for fall in all kinds of ways. Unfortunately, almost all of these changes are going to affect you and your home, too. That means even if you’re not ready to give up on summer, we recommend brushing up on fall pest prevention.
Here are some things you should know about fall pests:
- The most common fall pests are rodents, stink bugs, ants, cockroaches, spiders, and a variety of flies. Even though they represent different species and types of pests, all fall pests show up for the same reason. They are looking for food, water, and shelter for the winter.
- Almost all pests struggle to survive the cold winter months. As the temperature begins to drop, pests’ internal calendars begin warning them that it is time to seek shelter. This is why many fall insects and rodents begin searching for cracks and crevices in their pursuit of warmth and protection in the fall. It is important to try to figure out where they may be coming in or where they could come into your house. Check especially around windows and doors, near utility access points, and even in cracks or gaps in siding, and fix these access points accordingly.
- Just like humans, pests like their food plentiful. Food tends to become less plentiful at this time of year and so the pests will look to their benefactors (that would be you) for sustenance. Have a pet? Don’t leave pet food sitting. Lay it down during mealtime, and then store it in the fridge between feedings.
- Ticks are still active now, so tick prevention is still extremely important. Remember to wear long sleeves and long pants when possible, and check yourself, family, and pets thoroughly for ticks after spending time outside in heavily wooded or brushy areas.
- Some fall pests are not seen until spring. There are many critters that can get into a home in the fall and stay silent all winter long. For instance, when fertile female wasps hide in your eaves, soffits, roofline, attic spaces, or wall voids, you’re not likely to know about them till those females come back out and begin to establish spring nests. So, it’s good to plan now so you don’t have these pests later!
Now is the time to get ready for fall pests. At Alexandria Pest Services, we help homeowners just like you get rid of pests in their homes all year round. If you find that you are having a problem with insects or 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!
