_edited.png)
As the days grow shorter and the temperature starts to drop, the changing of seasons signals not only the arrival of cozy sweaters and pumpkin-spiced treats, but also the emergence of unwanted pests looking to make your home their winter getaway. In Northwest Ohio, fall brings a surge of pest activity as insects and rodents seek warmth, food, and shelter indoors. Knowing which pests are most common in the fall can help you stay ahead of potential infestations. Here are the top five fall pests in Northwest Ohio and tips for keeping them at bay.
1. Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Rodents, particularly house mice and Norway rats, are notorious for invading homes during the cooler months. These small creatures can squeeze through tiny gaps and cracks in walls or foundations, making their way inside in search of warmth and food. Once they find shelter, they can cause extensive damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and even structural elements.
Prevention Tips:
Seal any cracks or holes around your home’s exterior, especially around doors, windows, and utility entry points.
Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up spills and crumbs.
Keep outdoor areas free of clutter, debris, and stacked firewood that could provide hiding places for rodents.
2. Spiders
While spiders are active year-round, they often become more noticeable indoors during the fall. Many species, including the common house spider and the larger wolf spider, will seek shelter in basements, attics, and garages as temperatures drop. Although most are harmless, their presence can be unsettling for homeowners.
Prevention Tips:
Vacuum regularly to remove webs and egg sacs.
Keep your home clutter-free, as spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas.
Install weather stripping around doors and windows to reduce entry points.
3. Stink Bugs
Brown marmorated stink bugs are a growing nuisance in Ohio, especially in the fall. As outdoor temperatures dip, these shield-shaped bugs seek refuge in homes, often congregating in attics, wall voids, and window frames. They don’t pose a health threat, but they emit a foul odor when disturbed or crushed, making them an unwelcome guest indoors.
Prevention Tips:
Inspect and repair damaged screens, door sweeps, and window seals.
Use a vacuum cleaner to safely remove stink bugs without squashing them.
Consider using insect repellents around entry points to deter them from getting inside.
4. Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are another pest that becomes more active in the fall. These black and red insects gather in large numbers on the sunny sides of homes and trees. While they don’t cause structural damage or pose a threat to humans, their sheer numbers can be overwhelming if they find their way inside.
Prevention Tips:
Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and siding to prevent entry.
Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to minimize contact with potential entry points.
Sweep up and dispose of any bugs found indoors, rather than crushing them.
5. Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are a common nuisance in Ohio during the fall. Unlike house flies, cluster flies are slower-moving and seek shelter in attics, wall voids, and other dark spaces. These pests enter homes through small openings, and once inside, they can multiply quickly, emerging in large numbers when the weather warms up slightly.
Prevention Tips:
Install fine-mesh screens on attic vents and chimneys to block entry.
Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and utility entry points.
Use traps or sticky fly paper to capture any flies that make it indoors.
Final Thoughts:
While fall brings its own set of challenges when it comes to pest control, being proactive can help prevent unwanted visitors from taking over your home. If you're dealing with a pest problem that seems too big to handle on your own, consider contacting a professional pest control service. At ProGuard Pest Control, we’re dedicated to protecting your home from fall pests, ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable space all year long.
Protect your home this fall! Reach out to ProGuard!
Comments