As the temperatures start to drop in Northern California, many pests start to seek refuge indoors. Not only are these pests unwelcome guests in our homes, but many can also cause damage or carry disease. Knowing which pests to look out for and how to prevent them from entering your home is essential for keeping your family safe and comfortable during the fall season. In this blog post, we will explore some of the common fall pest invaders in Northern California and provide tips on how to prevent them from entering your home.
Rodents
Rodents are one of the most common pest invaders during the fall season. As the weather gets colder, they look for a warm place to nest and forage for food. Common rodents in the area are rats, mice, and squirrels. To prevent rodents from entering your home, seal any potential entry points like cracks or gaps in your walls, doors, or windows. Keep your home clean and free of food debris, including pet food and seed from bird feeders.
Spiders
Spiders are also common fall pest invaders. They enter homes seeking shelter from the colder weather and prey on other insects. While most spiders are harmless, some can be venomous and cause serious health problems. To prevent spider infestations, keep your home clean and free of clutter and regularly inspect and clean out any dark, unused spaces like crawl spaces or basements. You can also use spider repellents like citrus oils or vinegar to keep spiders away.
Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are another common fall pest in Northern California. They enter homes in search of warmth and food, and while they are generally harmless, they emit a foul odor when threatened or squished. To keep stink bugs from invading your home, seal any potential entry points like cracks around doors or windows, make sure your screens and vents are secure, and keep your home clean and free of food debris.
Ants
Ants are a year-round pest in Northern California, but they can become more problematic during the fall season. As the weather cools, they look for a warm place to nest, and they can also be attracted to the food inside your home. To prevent ants from entering your home, keep your home clean and free of food crumbs, seal any potential entry points, and use ant bait or traps if necessary.
Bed Bugs
While bed bugs are not necessarily a fall pest, they can become more widespread during the holiday season when people are traveling and hotels are more crowded. Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride in luggage or clothing and find their way into your home. To prevent bed bug infestations, inspect your hotel room thoroughly before settling in, wash your clothes and luggage in hot water after traveling, and monitor your home regularly for any signs of bed bugs.
As the temperatures drop in Northern California, it’s important to be vigilant against common fall pest invaders. By taking steps to prevent pests from entering your home, like sealing entry points, keeping your home clean, and using repellents and traps as necessary, you can keep your family and home safe and comfortable all season long. If you do experience a pest problem, don’t hesitate to contact a professional pest control service to help you handle the situation quickly and effectively.