Just when you thought bug season was over, an influx of new pests start making their way inside your home. Fall is an active time of year for several pests that are searching for food, water, and warmth as the temperatures cool down, or preparing to survive the cold winter months. Here are a few common fall pests and tips on how to prevent them from invading your home this fall and winter.
Roaches
Cockroaches may start moving indoors when the weather gets cooler in search of food, water, and warmth. The best way to prevent an infestation in your home is with proactive roach control:
- Eliminate or reduce food and water sources
- Get rid of hiding places by de-cluttering
- Keep a clean house
- Fix any plumbing leaks
- Store leftover food and dog food in storage containers
- Take out the trash daily
- Contact a pest control company
Beetles
Common fall beetles include ladybugs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs. These are considered overwintering pests and are preparing for hibernation in winter. To get rid of beetles and prevent them from coming inside:
- Vacuum any beetles you see inside
- Seal or repair any openings or gaps around windows and doors, especially near the warmest areas of your home (south and west-facing sides)
Mice
Like other rodents and pests, mice are searching for food and warmth in cooler weather, making your home a welcoming environment. Keep them out by rodent-proofing:
- Seal gaps or openings around your home’s exterior and around plumbing
- Cover outdoor vents
- Repair holes or tears in window screens or door screens
- Install weatherstripping around doors
- Clear out plants, leaves or any other vegetation that may be touching or near your home’s exterior
- Clean up any yard debris
- De-clutter inside the house
- Use glue boards in less-traveled areas, like basements and attics
