As the air cools and leaves begin to fall, pests in Massachusetts and Connecticut start preparing for winter. September is the peak season when insects and rodents begin their annual search for warm shelter, and unfortunately, your home may look like the perfect place to settle in.
Knowing which pests are most likely to invade during early fall can help you prepare, protect, and avoid unwanted infestations. Here are the top five pests to watch out for in September and what you can do about them.
Mice and rats are notorious fall invaders. They can squeeze through tiny openings — a mouse only needs a gap the size of a dime — and once inside, they multiply quickly. Rodents chew wires, contaminate food, and leave droppings that can spread disease.
Prevention Tip: Inspect the foundation and lower levels of your home. Seal holes with steel wool and caulk, install door sweeps, and keep storage areas tidy to reduce hiding spots.
Stink bugs are one of the most common fall invaders in New England. These shield-shaped insects gather in large numbers on sunny sides of homes before slipping inside through cracks, vents, and windows. Once inside, they don’t cause structural damage, but they are a major nuisance. When crushed or threatened, they release a foul odor that lingers in your home.
Prevention Tip: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and siding with caulk. Use fine mesh screens on attic vents and chimneys to reduce entry points.
Boxelder bugs are small, black-and-red insects that congregate on warm exterior walls. Like stink bugs, they don’t cause structural damage, but they will move inside for warmth. Once they get in, they leave stains on walls and fabrics when crushed.
Prevention Tip: Focus on sealing windows and doors. Vacuum up boxelder bugs rather than squashing them to avoid stains.
While spiders are beneficial outdoors, catching and eating other insects, many species seek shelter inside as fall approaches. Basements, attics, and garages become prime hiding spots. A sudden increase in spider webs inside your home is a clear sign they’ve moved in.
Prevention Tip: Reduce clutter and vacuum regularly in storage areas. Eliminate other pests that attract spiders inside.
You might think ants are a spring and summer problem, but many species invade homes in the fall to look for warmth and food. Kitchens and pantries are their favorite destinations, where they can contaminate food and form satellite colonies.
Prevention Tip: Keep food in airtight containers, wipe down counters daily, and clean up crumbs promptly.
How to Protect Your Home This Fall
September pest activity is all about preparation. Insects and rodents want to find safe shelter before cold weather arrives. The best way to stay ahead is with a proactive pest prevention plan.
Graduate Pest Solutions can help you identify and eliminate pest risks before they turn into infestations. Contact us today to schedule your fall pest inspection.