When fall arrives pests move indoors for shelter
Though we technically have a few more weeks of summer remaining, it won’t be long before the changing leaves and falling temperatures herald the arrival of fall. If you look closely, you may already notice signs that fall is almost here. We’re talking about the bugs around your yard and the ones trying to find their way in to escape the incoming Autumn cool and the winter freeze that follows behind. It might seem a bit premature but the reality is that finding warm, overwintering digs is not only desirable to pests, it might be absolutely necessary for their survival in the coming months.
Common fall pets in New Jersey
Fall pests may be harmless or they may be a threat to you and your home
Lady bugs, stink bugs, and house spiders
Fall pests like lady bugs and stink bugs have a tendency to gather in large groups that are really quite unsightly. They’re not dangerous to human or pet health though and they will not cause damage to your home. In fact, both lady bugs and stink bugs will enter diapause – an overwintering state of existence where their metabolic rate is enough to keep them alive but stops them from growing or reproducing. House spiders are also not a serious threat but their presence is an indication that other insects are lurking about. After all, what do you suppose house spiders eat?
Cockroaches
Moving from the nuisance pests of fall, let’s talk about those insects and rodents that are a threat. Cockroaches are bad news. No, they do not cause structural damage but they are a threat to health and safety. Cockroaches can aggravate allergies and actually trigger asthma attacks in some individuals. What’s more, their droppings, urine, and the bacterial that clings to their bodies (don’t forget, they walk through sewers and other places we REALLY don’t want to think about) can contaminate kitchen counters, other food prep surfaces, and the food itself. Health problems associated with roaches include, but are not limited to:
- Food poisoning
- Staph infections
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Abdominal pain
Mice & rats
Mice and rats are also significant threats to the health of property and people. Both types of rodents are capable of causing minor to major damages in and around a home. If your HVAC system seems to be less efficient, it could be because rodents are nesting in your ductwork. If your home experiences a water leak, it could be because mice or rats have chewed through a pipe. If your house catches on fire, it could be because rodents have been chewing or gnawing their way through electrical wires.
Rodents will also use clothing, attic insulation, cardboard, stuffing from an upholstered couch or chair, and other materials they find in homes to build their nests. This can lead to your household possessions being damaged or contaminated beyond repair.
And when it comes to human health, well let’s just say the threat level remains high when mice and rats are in residence. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, salmonellosis, and listeria spread through rodent feces, urine, and saliva can lead to significant health problems. In fact, Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a respiratory condition that can prove fatal for some.
Fall pest proofing tips from the local NJ pest control pros at Arrow
The secret to a home free of fall pests is making sure they do not have a chance to get inside in the first place. We realize that while the concept is simple, execution can be much more challenging. After all, bugs are small and even rodents can slip in through very narrow openings. To keep pests out this fall and all year long, here’s what we recommend:
- Install door sweeps
- Repair or replace damaged screens over windows and doors (if applicable)
- Screen vents
- Seal every crack, gap, and opening from the ground level to the top of the roof
- Where utilities and pipes enter the house, be sure to fill in holes
- Replace loose mortar and weather stripping
- Eliminate any and all moisture issues in and around the house
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house
- Trim tree branches and shrubs back so that they do not touch the house
- Sign up for year-round home pest control services
Year-round home pest control keeps insects and rodents out no matter what the season
The best way to protect your family and your home from fall pests is to contact Arrow Pest Control Services. Offering home pest control services in Saddle Brook, Montclair, and Long Hill as well as communities throughout our multi-county service area, our locally owned and family-operated pest control company is the best choice if you want to keep pests out all year-round. With plans starting as low as $35/month, you choose the level of coverage that suits your situation and we’ll take care of the rest!
