As the leaves start to turn and the air begins to chill, we all know that autumn is on its way. While fall brings with it beautiful colors and pumpkin spice lattes, it also brings a variety of pesky critters that seek shelter in warm homes. These fall invaders can cause damage to your property and pose health risks to your family and pets. In this blog post, we’ll outline some of the most common fall invaders to look out for and offer tips on how to keep them out of your home.

Rodents

As temperatures drop, rodents like mice and rats will seek out warm places to nest. They can enter your home through openings as small as a quarter inch, making it important to seal off any cracks or gaps in your foundation, windows, doors, and vents. Store food in airtight containers, and keep your home clean and clutter-free. If you suspect you have an infestation, call a pest control professional to remove the rodents and seal off all entry points.

Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are a common fall invader in many parts of the country. They seek out warm, dry spaces to spend the winter, and can enter your home through cracks in your foundation, walls, or roof. While they don’t pose a health risk, they can emit an unpleasant odor when disturbed. Seal off any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior, and consider installing screens over attic vents to keep stink bugs out.

Spiders

While most spiders are harmless, some species can be poisonous and pose a danger to your family and pets. Spiders often enter homes in search of food, water, and shelter. Regular cleaning and decluttering can make your home less attractive to spiders, and keeping windows, doors, and vents sealed can help prevent their intrusion. If you have a spider problem, call a pest control professional to identify the species and remove any nests or webs.

While ladybugs are often seen as a sign of good luck, they can become a nuisance when they invade your home in large numbers. Ladybugs enter homes to escape the cold weather, and can often be found clustered near windows and light fixtures. The best way to keep ladybugs out is to seal off entry points, and vacuum up any that make their way inside.

Termites

Termites don’t just infest homes in the spring and summer months. They can also become a problem in the fall as they search for warm, moist places to nest. Signs of a termite infestation include small holes in wood, piles of sawdust, and mud tubes on the exterior of your home. To prevent termites, keep all plant material and wood piles at least 20 feet away from your home’s foundation, and remove any dead trees or stumps in your yard.

Fall invaders can cause major headaches for homeowners, but with a little bit of prevention, they can be kept at bay. By sealing off entry points, keeping your home clean, and enlisting the help of a pest control professional when necessary, you can protect your family and your property from these pesky critters. As you prepare for the changing season, be sure to take the necessary steps to keep fall invaders out of your home.