Fall Pests Soon To Visit Long Island Homes

While we may still be experiencing warmer temperatures throughout Long Island, Brooklyn, and Westchester County, the general trend is going to be in decline as we enter the fall months. And as the temperatures begin to drop, it is likely that fall pests will become an issue for many NY homeowners. Some fall pests are simply a nuisance but others are a more serious threat to the health and safety of you, your family, and your home.

To help prepare yourself for the onset of fall pests, here is a list of common fall invaders that you will want to watch out for in your home:

Citronella ants - They are often confused with termites and while citronella ants do swarm and nest in moist areas like termites, they will not cause harm to the structures of your home.

Stink bugs - They are not a dangerous pest although they give off a foul odor when crushed and they can damage crops including fruits and vegetables.

Rodents - Mice and rats are capable of spreading bacteria and harmful pathogens which can leave you and your family members ill. They also can damage the structure of the home and items contained within, and create fire hazards as they are known for gnawing.

Wildlife - Raccoons, skunks, and squirrels are all common wildlife pests that may be trying to get inside when the weather turns cold. Wildlife can cause serious structural damages, spread harmful pathogens, risk an electrical fire in the home, and be very hard to get rid of.

What makes all of these pests gravitate towards your home in the fall? When the temperatures begin to cool down, many insects, critters, and wildlife are going to begin searching for a warm place to spend the winter. And whether they are just a nuisance or a dangerous pest, you certainly do not want to extend an invitation to any fall pests to overwinter in your space.

The best way to avoid the threat of infestations is to not let pests gain access in the first place. Here are a few fall pest proofing tips that can help:

1. Seal off any cracks or holes on the exterior of the home including along the foundation, windows and doors. It only take a small opening to develop a large pest infestation.
2. Repair any leaky pipes that could be adding moisture that pests such as citronella ants will be searching for.
3. Be sure that if you are keeping any windows open that there are well intact screens in place.
4. Trim back bushes and shrubs which can provide pests access to the exterior of the home.
5. Keep the home clean and remove any clutter. This means taking out the trash, removing crumbs and spills, organizing storage spaces, and sanitizing surfaces to prevent illness and structural damages associated with pest infestations.

Of course it is still possible that despite your attempts to keep a pest free home, fall pests may still find a way to get inside. If you have been able to identify pests in your Long Island home, then be sure to contact the NY pest control pros at Parkway Pest Services. Not only can our technicians remove the threat of pests this fall, but also help you to maintain a pest free home throughout the year with our PestGuard program. Available on Long Island, Brooklyn, Westchester County, NY and Fairfield County, CT as well as throughout our service area, our home pest control service is the ideal solution; call us today to learn more!