Popular North Carolina Fall Pests

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.

Wildlife Proofing This Fall

Wildlife Proofing This Fall

Oct 12, 2021 | Wildlife

As cooler weather approaches, we’re all looking forward to spending time outdoors and enjoying the fall season. However, while we are outside, unwanted pests could be inside of our home. Rodents such as squirrels and mice start to search for warm habitats in preparation for the winter months. Your home is the perfect place to shelter fall wildlife while providing them with easy access to food and water. It’s important to start your preparation early enough to prevent them from getting inside your home. Below are a few tips to wildlife-proof your home this fall.

Make Sure It’s Sealed

Unscreened attic vents and openings in chimneys provide ideal ways for wildlife to enter your home. Racoons, squirrels, and birds can easily sneak in and make your home theirs. You should make sure that your attic vents and chimneys are fully screened and sealed off.

Also, cracks and crevices on the outside of your home are easy access points for rates and mice to get in. Check for holes on the exterior of your home, especially around utility pipes. If you spot a hole, try using caulk to seal it up.

Clean It Up

Wildlife love food and your garbage can provide them with plenty of food sources. Make sure your garbage can isn’t overflowing and that you properly close them whether they’re inside or outside.

Clogged gutters can also block the drainage of rain and melting snow. This can cause damage to your home while also providing wildlife a place to build their nests. Check to make sure that your gutters are clean and your downspouts are directed away from your foundation.

Tidy Up the Yard

Some wildlife, such as squirrels, are known to use tree branches to gain access to the roof. This can help give them an easy guide to the inside of your home through the attic. Make sure to cut your tree limbs and branches that are hanging too close to the foundation and roof. By cleaning up leaf piles and debris, you can also help prevent small animals from invading. When cleaning up, put everything in a sealed waste bag and store them in the garage until garbage day.

While preventing wildlife from entering your property can feel impossible at times, these tips can help you move in the right direction. If you are having to constantly keep animals out, consider contacting a professional wildlife control company. They can inspect your home, identify entry points, safely remove any animals, and prevent them from entering in the future.

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