Winter is upon us. For us New Englanders, this means that it’s time to forage for our winter coats, extra blankets, and other warm items which may have been stowed away during the warmer summer months. The attic is a reliable storage area for many New England families. It can also be a secret haven for certain pests – namely bugs.
Types of Attic Bugs
There are several types of bugs that my infiltrate and nest in an attic. They will also vary depending on the climate and region. The majority of these attic pests are primarily a nuisance, finding their way into cracks and crevices and making a home. If you’re experiencing an infestation, call a pest control professional to help identify which bugs are bugging you and how to stop them.
Boxelder Bugs
During summer, boxelder bugs primarily live in trees, such as boxelder, ash, and maple trees. They are black with red markings along their dark grey wings. Fortunately, boxelder bugs aren’t much more than a nuisance, as they do not reproduce indoors and tend to stay inactive when cold.
Asian Lady Beetles
Asian lady beetles are a type of lady bug, with very significant resemblance. However, this type of ladybug is known as a “bad type.” They can emit a foul odor and a yellowish liquid which may stain walls and belongings. They may also bite humans, as they eat other insects.
Silverfish
Silverfish thrive in humid environments, which may be facilitated by the heat running in the home and causing condensation. They primarily feed on wallpaper pasts, natural textiles, paper, and books. This means that attics are virtually a paradise.
Preventing Attic Pests
In addition to a pest control program, the following tips may help prevent attic pests:
- Caulk around windows and doors to seal cracks
- Screen attic vents to reduce entry points
- Keep the area free of clutter, where pests like to nest
- Seal any wall voids that open into the attic to reduce insect migration
- Consider attic ventilation or running an air conditioner
Protecting Your Belongings
Not only can pests be a nuisance, they may also chew through less durable containers like cardboard boxes. This grants them access to the items stored within them, where they can continue their path of destruction. Severe infestations can end up with an attic full of ruined belongings. In addition to a pest control prevention program, homeowners should also be mindful of how they’re storing their belongings just in case. Belongings should always be placed in durable, sealed containers such as plastic and glass to prevent infiltration.