September is back-to-school time for families throughout southeast Virginia, and it signals the approach of fall and the changing seasons. What many people don’t know is that back-to-school time is also the signal for changes in bug and rodent behavior.
During the heat of the summer, bugs are generally a nuisance outside as we deal with mosquitos, ants and other critters in the yard, and occasionally inside the house. In the fall, temperatures start to drop and that leads to new nuisances. Here are a few to watch out for in and around your home:
Rodents – No one likes to admit it, but our area is known for problems with mice and rats. And when the temperatures start dropping, these pests look for inviting places that have easy access, like garages, sheds and crawl spaces. Fall is a good time to watch for signs of rodents, including droppings, chewed insulation and wiring, and damage to cardboard and paper containers.
Ants – Ants will often invade homes more aggressively in the fall in search of new food sources and protection from the elements. If you see an ant in your home, particularly in the kitchen or pantry, there’s a good chance there are others nearby.
Squirrels and “tree rats” – Squirrels are cute, but not when they invade your attic and make a nest in your insulation. As temperatures fall, squirrels will look for new places to hide, and if they can squeeze into your attic and walls, they will! Warning signs are scampering sounds in the ceiling, odd noises in the walls and frequent sightings of squirrels on your roof in the same place.
Of course there are other bugs and pests that can be a problem, but this is the time of year to watch out as temperatures and behaviors change. If you suspect you have a pest problem, give the experts at Home Pro a call and we’ll identify the issue and recommend a treatment to give you peace-of-mind and comfort through the fall and beyond.