The temperatures are finally beginning to cool down here in Florida. While that’s great for people, it’s not the best situation for pests. Many of them begin to go inside as the temperatures cool down, seeking steadier temperatures and shelter. Here are some of the pests to look out for this fall:
Spiders
Due to their association with Halloween, spiders are known to be a fall pest. However, they’re actually around all year. They often find their way into homes when temperatures cool down for the fall. Spiders primarily eat other bugs, so a spider infestation can mean you have an underlying pest problem. Keeping spiders out entirely can be difficult, but if there aren’t other bugs around, you won’t have to worry about them.
Ants
These insect powerhouses notoriously invade homes in droves. It’s very rare to only see one ant. Ants invade homes while seeking food and shelter. If they find it easily, they then set up camp with their entire colonies. You’ll typically find them in places like the bathroom and kitchen, where there’s plenty of food and waste to go around. Keeping food sealed, cleaning up spills and avoiding water leaks can help protect you from an ant infestation.
Cockroaches
Every South Floridian knows about cockroaches. These big bugs love warm, humid tropical climates like the one here. Cockroaches tend to gravitate toward the kitchen, especially if the kitchen has a water leak or easily accessible crumbs and spills. When you see one, it typically means more of them are right around the corner. Use the same strategies to avoid cockroaches that you would to avoid ants.
Rodents
When temperatures start to drop, rodents seek shelter indoors. Mice and rats stay in places where they can find food. Mice also seek nesting materials, which can be made out of many different materials found in the home. A cluttered home is more appealing to rodents, as it gives them plenty of places to hide. Both mice and rats can spread disease, mainly through their urine and feces and by contaminating food supplies. Keep them out by maintaining your home, caulking up any holes in the foundation, replacing weatherstripping and keeping your food tightly sealed.
Termites
Even though termites swarm in spring and summer, they’re a year-round pest. Once they infest a home, termites eat continuously as they build their colonies. That’s why they cause billions of dollars of damage each year worldwide. Avoiding termites can be tricky, especially if you live in an older house. The best thing you can do is get termite inspections done by professional pest control professionals once a year or so. Once you find signs of termites, call a pest control company immediately for an inspection and a treatment.
Every season has its pests. Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of exceptional service, is here to help with your fall pest problems. We offer pest control in South Florida. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule a free inspection.
