5 Common Fall Pests in the Pacific Northwest
Fall brings thoughts of pumpkins, apple cider, and cozy sweaters. It is a time of year when everyone is winding down from summer fun and getting ready for the holidays. It should also be a time of year when you make sure you’re prepared for potential pest problems.
Although many people believe pests are only a bother during spring and summer. Pests are a year-round problem, especially in the fall. Bugs and rodents know that winter is coming so they are doing whatever it takes to get prepared–which can unfortunately mean invading your home.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about the 5 most common pests in Oregon and Washington, and offer tips to help keep them out of your home.
Fall Pests in Oregon and Washington
Ants
Ants are the number one nuisance pest in the country. These tiny insects cannot survive the cold rainy weather we often get in the Portland metro area. They will look for food to store for the coming months as well as items they can use to insulate their nests. If you see a few ants around your home, there is a good chance there is a colony living somewhere nearby.
Spiders
The Pacific Northwest is home to various spiders, from Hobo spiders to orb weavers. Although these arachnids hunt for other common household pests, many people shrill at the sight of them. Spiders don’t invade your home because it’s warm. They’re actually not attracted to warmth like commonly believed. Spiders have an “antifreeze” type of substance in their bodies which allows them to withstand temperatures as low as -5° C. A big reason you’ll see spiders more often this time of year is because autumn is spider mating season.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are arguably the most disgusting pest on our list. These pests spread potentially harmful diseases, contaminate food, and can trigger asthma attacks. Discovering that you have cockroaches can be difficult because they come out at night. However, these nasty little insects leave evidence wherever they go. Check for cockroach droppings, smear marks, shed skin on your counters and around your baseboards. Cockroaches also leave a musky odor that gets stronger the larger the infestation.
Fleas
Many people believe that fleas are only common during the hot months. Fleas love the warmth and security of a home during the colder months. Fleas can spread various diseases including typhus and plague. You will need to treat your pet as well as your home to get rid of these unwanted pests.
Rodents
Autumn is a time of year when rodents are seeking safe shelter for the winter. These vermin will not only destroy your home and belongings, but they can also spread diseases, and bring in other pests like fleas, ticks, and mites. These cunning little pests can fit into the smallest of spaces, as small as a dime!
What is a Good Way of Deterring Pests?
- Weatherproof your doors and windows
- Use a silicone-based caulk for small cracks in your siding and foundation
- Repair plumbing leaks
- Store food in airtight containers
- Maintain cleanliness
- Don’t leave pet food out
- Keep firewood away from your home
- Trim shrubs so they aren’t harborages
- Prune tree branches that touch your roof
We hope these tips help you have a pest-free fall, but if you experience a pest problem, contact your local pest control company, like Antworks. We specialize in effective and environmentally-friendly pest control. We’ll inspect your home and evict those unwanted visitors, keeping your family and pets safe.
