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Overwintering Pests: What Are They?

Nov 8, 2022 | Pest Control

A common term used to describe pests and how they survive the colder temperatures is overwintering. These types of pests will often seek warmth and shelter in homes and buildings because of the comfort they offer. Overwintering pests don’t cause any harm to you or your home but can become a nuisance if they begin to infest. Here are some common overwintering pests and some easy do-it-yourself tips to keep them outside of your house.

Lady Bugs

These well-known pests are harmless and are deemed beneficial. They will often consume plant-eating insects such as aphids, mites, and scale insects, all of which can harm crops and plants in gardens; although, if you find lady bugs invading your home, they can become difficult to get rid of.

Boxelder Bugs

This type of overwintering pest is considered a little more aggressive than others. If they puncture your skin, it can cause a slight irritation, but nothing to worry about. Other than that, boxelder bugs are harmless, but can become a nuisance if they choose to infest.

Stink Bugs

These pests can infest homes in large numbers, especially beginning in the fall time. Stinkbugs are attracted to your home due to the warmth that it provides. They can usually find their way indoors through any exterior entry points.

Overwintering Pest Prevention

Keep your home protected this winter with these tips for preventing overwintering pests:

Clean up your yard by raking, keeping the grass cut short, and picking up debris in the yard.
Seal or caulk all cracks and crevices around house foundations, siding, doors, windows, electrical, and plumbing.
Use tight-fitting insect screens on foundations and attic vents.

If you begin to see an overabundance of overwintering pests, then reach out to your local pest control company to create a customized plan of action.

Popular North Carolina Fall Pests

Sep 28, 2022 | Pest Control

Temperatures are getting cooler and we are starting to spend more time indoors. We aren’t the only ones inside, though. Many pests will appear indoors that weren’t around in the warmer months. Pests found inside are seeking warmer shelter to survive the winter and provide a food source. Let’s break down some common fall pests so you’re better prepared to prevent and treat them.

Spiders

Fall is the time when leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, but it’s also when most spiders begin to mate. You might see more spiders than usual indoors due to them trying to find a match. Outside, you may notice large webs around your home. Spiders are known for being beneficial and can reduce the number of other pests around your home, so be mindful when knocking down their webs outside.

Fire Ants

Fire ants build large mounds in soil and near structural foundations. They can even find their way indoors through cracks in buildings. When they feel threatened or disturbed, they can cause multiple painful stings and can become aggressive. Fall is the best time to treat fire ant mounds as this is when they’re most active.

Rodents

Like us humans, rodents are also in search of food and warmth in the cooler weather. Your home can become a welcoming environment for them. Be sure to rodent-proof your home by sealing gaps or openings around your home’s exterior. Keep outdoor vents covered, repair any holes or tears in window or door screens, and install weatherstripping around doors.

Beetles

You may notice an increase in overwintering pests, such as ladybugs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs. These types of pests often resist traditional treatments with pesticides, so it’s best to take measures around your home to prevent more from coming inside. They’ll gather near the warmest areas of your home, usually on the south and west-facing sides. In these areas, check for any openings or gaps around windows and doors.

If you notice an influx of pests around your home this fall, reach out to your local pest control company who will provide you with a treatment plan that works best for you and your family.