As the warm days of summer give way to cooler weather in New Jersey many insects and pests begin their fall activity. Fall is a transition season for pest activity because bugs and rodents are searching for warmth, food and shelter as temperatures drop. Understanding the most common fall pests in New Jersey and how they behave can help you protect your home or business throughout the autumn months. Horizon Pest Control provides pest management services throughout all regions of New Jersey and is here to help you stay pest free this fall.
Fall pest activity increases as insects prepare for the coming winter. Many fall pests that were outside during the summer begin looking for protected places to overwinter. These pests may gather on the outside of structures and seek entry through cracks, vents, gaps around doors and other openings. As a result, New Jersey homes and businesses can see increased pest sightings during fall.
Stink bugs are one of the most recognizable fall pests in New Jersey. They gather on the sunny sides of buildings and try to get inside warm spaces to overwinter. Stink bugs do not bite or damage structures but when disturbed they release a strong unpleasant odor that many homeowners find irritating.
Boxelder bugs are black insects with red or orange markings that congregate on warm exterior walls before seeking shelter indoors. They do not pose health risks but their large numbers and constant movement make them a nuisance if they find their way into your home.
Also known as Asian ladybugs, these beetles are often seen in fall seeking warm places to spend the winter. Unlike native ladybugs which are beneficial, these imported beetles can congregate in large numbers on the sides of buildings and sometimes in attics and wall spaces. When disturbed they can emit a foul odor and stain surfaces.
Spiders increase in activity during fall as they follow other pests that are moving around looking for shelter. House spiders, cellar spiders and similar species often move indoors and can create webs in corners ceilings and undisturbed areas of homes and businesses.
Cluster flies are slow moving flies that gather in large groups on walls, windows and attics as temperatures fall. They are not harmful but are considered nuisance pests because they are difficult to eliminate once inside.
Cockroaches may seek warmth and food inside structures as the weather cools. Likewise ants will send foragers indoors if outdoor food sources become scarce. Both cockroaches and ants can contaminate food and trigger allergies and should be managed promptly.
Fall can also bring crickets and silverfish indoors especially in damp basements or storage areas. These pests thrive in moist environments and can become everyday nuisances if left unchecked.
While not insects’ rodents such as mice and rats are among the most common fall invaders in New Jersey. As temperatures drop, rodents search for warmth and easy access to food. Once inside they can chew wires, wood and insulation and multiply rapidly. Preventing rodent entry is critical to keeping your home or business safe from damage and contamination.
Fall pest challenges are not just seasonal inconveniences. Many insects and rodents use fall as the time to establish comfortable winter shelters inside homes and buildings. Once pests move indoors, they often stay until spring if not properly controlled. A professional seasonal pest management plan can identify entry points, treat the exterior perimeter and reduce pests before they become established.
Horizon Pest Control offers expert seasonal inspections, customized treatments and ongoing protection across all areas of New Jersey. Our technicians understand local pest behavior and will work with you to develop a strategy that keeps your property pest free from fall into winter and beyond.
Keeping pests out begins with prevention and targeted treatments. Some ways to reduce fall pest activity include:
Fall in New Jersey can be beautiful, but it also brings pest activity that can disrupt your comfort and peace of mind. Whether you are in North Central or South Jersey along the shore or in suburban and urban communities Horizon Pest Control can help you protect your home or business from fall pests. Contact Horizon for a fall pest inspection or treatment and ensure your home and business remain pest free this season and every season.
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