Bryan & College Station Fall Pest Invasion Guide
There is a lot that goes on during the summer and many pests have an internal clock that helps them prepare for the coming winter. It is this “instinct” that helps them survive. A butterfly never looks up and says “looks like fall is coming, I better start migrating.” These actions are driven by instinct and those instincts can help you prevent pest infestations before they start.
Overwintering Insects
Some insects lay eggs and then die while others seek a place to overwinter and then emerge the following spring. In either case, inside of your home, sheds, garages or other contained space, you may find either eggs or insects looking for a place to wait out the colder weather. A good example of this are the stink bugs and box elder bugs. These are both plant eating insects but will happily take up residence in your home. Your home provides a holiday of sorts for insects and pests during the winter. Not only is there plenty of food and water about, but also your come stays warm – a lot warmer than it is outdoors.
Spiders are another organism that wants to find a home for the winter. You can help prevent the “easy access” to winter housing for many pests by paying close attention to screens. Be sure to check windows and doors as well as vent covers to make sure that the screening material is strong and in good shape.
Windows, doors, and vent screens are just one group of access points for crawling and flying insects. Soft-bodied pests, such as spiders can squeeze under or between boards and find their way into your home. A good place to check is windows and doors. Make sure that both have a tight seal and for your door, weather stripping helps to keep out crawling insects.
TIP: Change your porch light to one that will not attract night flying insects, such as moths.
Rodents, Spiders, and Snakes
An unlikely group, but all three will seek a warmer place to overwinter and all three take advantages of cracks in foundations, unfilled holes in sidings – such as where a pipe exits, and loose-fitting siding as a means of getting into the walls of your home. Snakes and rodents will also use trees to gain access to your roof where they might find access to your attic or enter a vent.
Make sure that shrubs and trees are not overhanging your roof and that foliage is not pressed up against the building. As fall comes and the leaves drop be sure to rake them up quickly. Many pests do not need much cover to survive even a cold winter. Fallen leaves, yard debris, and other matter that might be lying about the yard make wonderful winter abodes for pests.
Pest Control
Late summer and early fall are busy times for pest control companies. Take the initiative and book early to help control summer pests before they begin to look for fall and winter lodging. A thoughtfully applied bait and contract regiment can help remove unwanted pests. When paired with a few DIY chores you can significantly reduce the numbers of pests you face this fall and winter. For more information about quality and safe pest control, reach out to our team. We offer professional pest control services throughout Bryan and College Station.
