As fall approaches, it is important to begin preparing for the upcoming winter by making sure that your property is pest-free. As the cold winds begin to blow, many pests begin to seek shelter indoors. If not caught early, these pests can then begin to reproduce and cause a serious infestation. Here are the most common pests you can expect to see when fall approaches along with a few guidelines for how to recognize their arrival.
Common House Spiders
Spiders may be a popular element of fall festival décor, but the last thing a person needs is to have them set up a web in their home. Fortunately, most of the spiders in New England are not poisonous; however, the occasional brown recluse or black widow spider may be found in a building. Even non-poisonous spiders, such as wolf and jumping varieties, can still pack a painful bite. Therefore, you will want to do a thorough inspection of your home and eliminate webs before spiders reproduce.
Rodents
During the fall, rodents invade buildings in search of a place to nest when the weather turns cold. Keeping buildings free of clutter can help eliminate the hiding places that mice and squirrels prefer to set up their nests. In addition to being a nuisance, rodents can be a serious health hazard. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the white-footed mouse is commonly associated with being a carrier of the hantavirus which can cause serious illnesses in humans. Be on the lookout for mouse sightings, droppings and nests made from shredded materials.
Bed Bugs
Currently, bed bug infestations are on the rise, and seasonal travel can pose a risk for more infestations. During the fall and upcoming holiday season, be on the lookout for signs of a bed bug infestation. Although these tiny bugs are hard to see, you may find them by turning off the lights and looking for them along the seams of furniture and mattresses with a flashlight. You may also notice bites on your skin after sleeping that tend to be in lines.
Effective pest control plans should always include seasonal inspections to check for pests that invade buildings in search of a warm place to stay during the fall and winter. By staying alert for the most common fall pests, such as rodents, a person can be sure that their property is safe for everyone.