Cooler temperatures push pests into your home

Posted by: Bulletin Editor September 11, 2017 Comments Off on Cooler temperatures push pests into your home

Non-toxic, skilled-amateur approach to rodent control.

Many pests are seasonal, with mosquitoes peaking in the summer and rodents seeking refuge in the winter. Fall is no exception to this trend, with many pests looking for shelter indoors as temperatures begin to drop.

“Many mistakenly believe their pest problems will end at the close of summer,” explains Dr. Alice Sinia, resident entomologist for Orkin Canada. “Instead, they’ll find that new pests move into their homes in preparation for winter.”

Sinia recommends monitoring for the following pests during this autumn.

Rodents. Mice and rats are two of the most common fall intruders. They need warmth, shelter and food to survive, making your home an oasis during the cooler season. In addition to carrying several diseases, these pests can cause extensive damage to your home by chewing through wire and insulation. Once they’re inside, they reproduce quickly.

Box Elder Bugs. Also known as maple bugs, these pests can enter through cracks and crevices, congregate in large numbers and hibernate through fall and winter. While they do not cause structural damage, they can leave stains on furniture and linens.

Bed Bugs. These are a constant threat, and this fall will be no exception. Bed bugs can travel on clothing, suitcases, bedding and furniture, moving quickly from one home to the next. Although they do not carry diseases, they can leave behind itchy welts and are difficult to eliminate.

Cluster flies. Cluster flies are slightly larger and darker than the common housefly. They are attracted to warmth and are most commonly found on the sunny side of buildings. They can fly and crawl through small openings and voids in the walls. These pests do not bite or carry diseases, but will leave behind stains on walls and curtains when crushed.

Preventive steps can help reduce the risk of pest threats. Try trimming vegetation, sealing cracks and screening windows. Contact a licenced pest management professional to help prepare your home against fall pests.