The Fall season in Albany and the surrounding area is a spectacular time to enjoy the outdoors. Of course, November kicks off a holiday season marked by gatherings, visitors, and celebrations. 

Pests are unwanted visitors

What pests are you providing access to as you enjoy the moderate temperatures? We all experience poorly timed ant invasions, but what else should you be concerned about? The change of weather may prompt mice and bats to look for sanctuary inside. Fall is also mating season for many spiders, including the pervasive wolf spiders and yellow sac spiders in our area. 

Some fall pests are annoying but not typically harmful, like stink bugs. You are more likely to find these pests (sometimes called brown shield bugs but generally referred to as stink bugs due to their odor when threatened or smashed) in your yard or on your deck. Sometimes, they will find their way through an open door or window and even a screen with a gap. 

Other bugs that show up in the fall include house centipedes, cockroaches, and cluster flies. Centipedes and cockroaches are attracted to damp, dark spaces inside the house. It’s quite a list of potential invaders to watch out for.

Don’t bring home bed bugs!

One of the most-reviled invaders is bed bugs, which peak in early fall. As families return home from end-of-summer vacations and college students travel between home and school, bed bugs are skilled at hitching rides in backpacks, luggage, and more. No one wants these nasty, reddish-brown, tiny bloodsuckers in bed with their family or their visitors! These bugs hide in beds, especially mattress folds and seams, and on bedroom furniture. The best way to avoid them is by checking any luggage that enters or leaves your home and inspecting the beds when you travel. 

How can I prevent invasions?

While some of these uninvited guests are dangerous to people, pets, or your home (the damage mice and bats can do is significant), some are just annoying. Still, some simple preparation will help reduce their ability to get inside. However, keeping them out is challenging, and you may need to get professional help from an expert local pest control company like Thomas Pest Services. 

Here are some helpful tips to discourage many pests:

• Trim trees and bushes so they don’t touch your home, including the roof and windows. 
• Keep garage doors, sliding doors, and screens closed.
• Seal crawl spaces into the attic or basement.
• Check screens for tears, especially on windows leading to the basement and attic.
• Seal windows with caulk and window weather strips.
• Look for access points around pipes, roof lines, dryer vents, and other exposed areas.
• Keep trash tightly closed and away from the house. 
• Keep pantry items sealed and clean up crumbs and spills. 

Should I get professional help?

Sometimes, you need help. Thomas Pest Services offers solutions for all of these pests. Consider our Complete Care Plan, or start with a complimentary inspection and estimate. Our technicians are professional, reliable, prompt, and effective. Call us at 518-861-4921 or simply complete the request form.