As the temperatures continue to drop, expect an insect home invasion this fall. Just when you thought you would be rid of those pesky summer pests, here come the insects of the fall. They march towards your warm home, seeking refuge from the harsh winter days that lie ahead.

If you thought these bugs need an open door or a window to crawl into your territory, think again. Some of these opportunists need only a gap as thin as a credit card to pass through and occupy your home.

Insects are not only a threat to your property, but to your health as well. Some fall insects may not be harmful but the close buzzing can cause irritation and disruption. Your food may also be at risk for contamination. Many pests are disease carriers and their droppings or bites may cause serious allergic reactions within your family.

It is imperative you keep a lookout for these bugs this fall. Pests are very good at hiding and you may even miss them! Thankfully, here is a quick list of the most common bugs to look for in the fall.

Flies

These are pesky as it they are during the summer, but in the winter they may seem to have doubled! It’s true because they have had all summer to populate. Flies, like most other fall insects, want to be close to warmth. So look closely at your south or west-facing structures. Keep food, fruit, and garbage containers covered. Doing this will help keep the fruit flies, house flies, and cluster flies at bay.

Stink Bugs

Cold temperatures and the dwindling food supply make these pests hostile. Additionally, if you threaten or squish these bugs in your home, car, or other living areas, they will give out a vile stench. They hike their way into your home along with your visitors. Stink bugs are difficult to get rid of once they’ve established a comfortable space to settle down, so be sure to get professional help from a pest control expert in Fort Lauderdale to handle it.

Cockroaches

These are one of the most common bugs to look out for in the fall. They are not only irritating to have in your home, but they are potentially dangerous as well. They carry as many as 33 different bacteria. These pests tend to travel via pipes, vents, and drains. So it is important you keep your bathroom and kitchen free of standing water or food. 

Lady Bugs

Do you have plants growing on your outer walls? Or plant beds near or beside yours walls? Then you need to watch out for lady bugs. As is the case with all other fall insects invading your home, lady bugs need a warm place to wait out the winter. They bugs are pretty and may not be harmful but they sure can be a nuisance to have inside your home. They often cluster and hibernate. Once they wake they can leave a yellow ring; this is tough to get rid of. 

Boxelders

These black bugs with red markings on their outer bodies can be so annoying! They sting, they eat your food, and their droppings stain your belongings. They are found close to your indoor plants. They don’t harm the plants but can sure be a pest to your commercial or residential properties.

Ants

Ants are particularly harmful. These fall insects bite, contaminate your food, and damage the wooden structures. To prevent an ant invasion, make sure to keep your floors clean by sweeping often. Keep your food closed and areas hygienic. Also, keep any unused firewood outside your home.  

Yellow jackets

Be especially cautious around the yellow jacket bug. They are predators of insects and so, they can sting you too. They build their nests inside cracks or small openings in man-made structures. It’s important to take out the nest completely as they leave behind an odor for a new colony to find the space.

Honeybees

Deep clean your attics. Mend any cracks or open surfaces in your commercial or residential areas. More importantly, if you find a nest of honeybees, seek help from pest control experts. These bugs need to be cleared out safely.

Preparing and protecting your home in the fall just requires a bit of observation. If you discover any of these insects ask a pest control expert in Fort Lauderdale for help.