10 Common Pests to Watch Out for This Fall and How to Prevent Them

Autumn is a season of vibrant colors, cozy sweaters, and unfortunately, an array of pests looking for shelter as the weather cools. For homeowners, gardeners, and commercial businesses, this means dealing with unwanted guests. Understanding the most common pests can help you prepare, prevent, and protect your property as we transition into fall.

Meet the Fall’s Most Unwanted Guests

1. Mice

Mice seek warmth and food as temperatures drop. They’re known for chewing through wires and nesting in insulation, posing both safety and health risks.

Signs of Infestation: Droppings, gnawed wires, and scratching noises in walls.

2. Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in warm, damp environments and are notorious for spreading bacteria.

Signs of Infestation: Musty odor, droppings that resemble coffee grounds, and dead cockroach bodies.

3. Spiders

Spiders increase in number during fall as they move indoors to escape the cold and hunt for food.

Signs of Infestation: Webs in corners, basements, and garages, along with sightings of spiders themselves.

4. Stink Bugs

Stink bugs seek refuge indoors when the temperature drops and release a foul odor when crushed.

Signs of Infestation: Sightings around windows and doors, along with their distinctive smell.

5. Boxelder Bugs

These black and orange pests can swarm walls and windows during fall, seeking warmth.

Signs of Infestation: Clusters of bugs on sunny sides of buildings and entry points.

6. Ants

Ants form larger colonies as they search for food to sustain them through winter.

Signs of Infestation: Trails of ants leading to food sources and small piles of debris indicating nesting.

7. Silverfish

Attracted to damp, dark areas, silverfish can damage paper products and textiles.

Signs of Infestation: Scales and yellow stains on books, papers, and fabrics.

8. Ladybugs

Though harmless, ladybugs can become nuisances in large numbers as they invade homes for warmth.

Signs of Infestation: Groups of ladybugs congregating on walls and windows.

9. Wasps

Wasps become aggressive in the fall as their food sources dwindle, increasing the risk of stings.

Signs of Infestation: Nests under eaves and increased wasp activity around outdoor spaces.

10. Earwigs

Earwigs favor moist environments and can damage plants and seedlings.

Signs of Infestation: Ragged holes in leaves and sightings in damp, dark areas.

Prevention Strategies for Protecting Against Pests

Prevention for Homeowners

• Seal Entry Points: Use caulking to seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations to keep pests out.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean kitchen surfaces and dispose of trash to eliminate food attractions.
• Proper Storage: Store food in airtight containers and keep pet food sealed.

Prevention for Gardeners

• Mulching: Use mulch sparingly as it can harbor pests. Instead, use it in thin layers to retain moisture while reducing pest attraction.
• Plant Selection: Choose pest-resistant plant varieties and rotate crops to deter pests.
• Natural Barriers: Employ physical barriers like row covers and netting to protect plants from infestation.

Prevention for Commercial Businesses

• Scheduled Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your property to identify and address potential entry points.
• Waste Management: Ensure trash is disposed of regularly and stored in sealed containers.
• Employee Training: Educate employees about pest prevention practices to ensure everyone is vigilant.

The Importance of Early Detection and Regular Monitoring

Early detection of pest issues can save time, money, and stress. Regular monitoring allows for quick response and minimizes the potential damage pests can cause. We here at Freedom Force Pest Control, can help you come up with a strategy to remove and monitor your pest situation. Let’s work together to keep our homes, gardens, and businesses pest free.