As the temperatures dip and leaves start to change color, fall in Iowa brings more than just beautiful scenery—it also signals the start of peak pest season. As the weather cools, pests begin seeking warmth and shelter, often finding their way into your home. From rodents scurrying in the attic to spiders spinning webs in the corners, fall pests can be a nuisance and even a health hazard.
In this post, Janssen Pest Solutions will cover 10 common fall pests in Iowa, why they invade, and what you can do to prevent them. We’re experts on Des Moines pest control and are happy to share our knowledge!
Key Takeaways:
- Fall is a prime time for pest invasions, especially as pests seek warmth and shelter.
- Common fall pests in Iowa include mice, spiders, ants, and termites. These are all reasons to call Des Moines pest control.
- Proactive measures like sealing entry points and keeping your home clean can prevent infestations.
- Regular pest control services ensure that your home remains pest-free throughout the season.
1. Mice and Rodents: The Sneaky Invaders
Why they invade: As the temperature drops, rodents seek shelter and food in homes. They often sneak into houses through small cracks, holes, or openings around windows and doors.
Signs of infestation: Gnaw marks on food containers, droppings, and small holes in walls or insulation. You may also hear scratching sounds at night.
Why they’re a problem: Mice are more than just unwelcome guests—they can damage wiring, insulation, and furniture. They also carry diseases like Hantavirus and salmonella, contaminating food supplies and spreading bacteria.
2. Spiders: The Web-Slingers
Why they invade: As temperatures fall, spiders seek warmth and food, often in attics, basements, or other hidden areas of your home.
Common types: Brown recluse, black widow, and house spiders are the most common fall visitors.
Why they’re a problem: While most spiders are harmless, some, like the brown recluse and black widow, are venomous and pose a health risk. Large populations can also make your home feel unsettling.
3. Ants: The Unrelenting Foragers
Why they invade: Ants are in search of food, and fall brings a host of crumbs, leftovers, and sweets into the home—especially in kitchens.
Common types: Carpenter ants, sugar ants, and pavement ants.
Why they’re a problem: Ants can contaminate food, damage wood structures (especially carpenter ants), and be a general nuisance.
4. Boxelder Bugs: The Autumn Clusters
Why they invade: Boxelder bugs are in search of a warm place to overwinter, often finding their way into homes through cracks in windows, doors, or siding.
How to identify: These bugs have a distinct black body with orange markings and tend to gather in clusters, especially on sunny areas of the house.
Why they’re a problem: While they don’t bite or sting, boxelder bugs can be a real nuisance, especially when they invade homes in large numbers.
5. Stink Bugs: The Foul-Smelling Pests
Why they invade: As fall sets in, stink bugs search for warm shelter in your home.
How to identify: Stink bugs have a shield-shaped body, ranging in color from brown to greenish, and are often found on windowsills or in corners.
Why they’re a problem: When disturbed, stink bugs release a foul odor that can linger for days. They can also be challenging to remove once they’ve made their way inside.
6. Cluster Flies: The Annoying Swarm
Why they invade: Cluster flies seek warm shelter for the winter months, often clustering near windows or other sunny spots.
How to identify: They are larger than typical house flies, with a darker color, and often form large clusters on windows or walls.
Why they’re a problem: While cluster flies don’t bite or carry diseases, they can create a mess in your home and are tough to get rid of once they’ve settled in.
7. Wasps: The Fall Threat
Why they invade: As the weather cools, wasps start to look for places to nest for the winter, often in attics, under eaves, or in sheltered outdoor spaces.
How to identify: Wasps are typically yellow and black with slender bodies. Their nests are often found in sheltered spots like attics or under the roofline.
Why they’re a problem: Wasps can be aggressive, especially if their nests are disturbed. Their stings are painful, and, in some cases, allergic reactions may occur.
8. Cockroaches: The Fall Seekers
Why they invade: Cockroaches look for food, water, and warmth, especially as temperatures drop and outdoor resources dwindle.
Common types: American and German cockroaches.
Why they’re a problem: Cockroaches are carriers of bacteria, which can lead to food contamination and health issues like allergies and asthma. They’re also incredibly hard to eliminate.
9. Ladybugs (Asian Lady Beetles): The Unwanted Guests
Why they invade: Ladybugs seek out sheltered areas for hibernation as the weather cools. Unfortunately, Asian lady beetles often prefer to make homes inside your walls.
How to identify: These ladybugs are orange or red with black spots, and they often congregate near windows.
Why they’re a problem: While ladybugs are beneficial outdoors, when they enter homes, they can leave stains if crushed and may cause allergic reactions in some people.
10. Termites: The Silent Destroyers
Why they invade: Termites are active year-round, but their presence is often most noticeable in the fall when they begin swarming to start new colonies.
Signs of infestation: Hollow-sounding wood, mud tubes along walls or beams, and discarded wings near windows or entry points.
Why they’re a problem: Termites are notorious for causing severe damage to wooden structures, often without being noticed until the damage is extensive.
How to Prevent Fall Pest Infestations in Iowa
Protecting your home from these fall pests requires vigilance and proactive measures. Here’s how to keep your home pest-free this season:
- Seal entry points: Check for gaps in doors, windows, and foundation cracks. Caulk or seal these areas to keep pests out.
- Clean regularly: Remove food crumbs, pet food, and trash. Store food in airtight containers, especially during the fall when pests like ants and rodents are most active.
- Trim vegetation: Pests like spiders and boxelder bugs often use trees and shrubs to get inside. Keep plants trimmed away from the house.
- Install pest control services: Regular treatments from a pest control service can keep pests from becoming a problem, especially as the seasons change.
- Inspect your attic and basement: Look for signs of rodent nests or insect hibernation spots in attics, basements, and crawlspaces.
For extra protection against unwanted invaders, consult professional pest control in Des Moines. The experts will provide the best results!
Conclusion
Fall brings coziness and holiday fun, but it also brings a host of pests that are eager to invade your home. By staying vigilant, sealing entry points, and utilizing professional pest control services, you can ensure your home remains a comfortable, pest-free sanctuary all season long.
Contact us today for seasonal pest prevention and control services that will keep your home safe from common fall pests.
FAQs about Fall Pests in Iowa:
Q: How do I know if I have a mouse problem in my home?
A: Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or signs of nesting, particularly in dark or hidden areas like the attic, basement, or behind appliances.
Q: Are all spiders dangerous?
A: No. While most spiders in Iowa are harmless, some species, like the brown recluse and black widow, are venomous and should be avoided.
Q: How can I keep ants out of my kitchen?
A: Keep food sealed, clean up crumbs promptly, and seal any cracks or crevices where ants may be entering.
Q: Why are ladybugs a problem in my home?
A: While ladybugs are helpful outdoors, Asian lady beetles can become a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers and can cause allergic reactions.
Q: What should I do if I find termites in my home?
A: Contact a pest control expert immediately, as termites can cause significant damage to your home’s structure if left untreated.