Fall Checklist for Pests
The weather is getting cooler and the days are markedly shorter. To most of us, this signals the beginning of that wonderful time of year when the leaves put on a spectacular show. To pests, though, the change in climate signals something entirely different. The changes that autumn weather brings signal to critters small and large that winter is around the corner and preparations should be made. Some pests overwinter, some hibernate, and still others find safe haven in structures like our homes! Here is a quick fall checklist to avoid pests this season.
- Eliminate entry points to your home. This means sealing up holes in window screens, gaps under doors, openings around utility vents, cracks in the foundation, and openings in soffits. Mice can get through a hole as small as a dime, so be thorough in your inspections.
- Keep wood piles at least 20 feet away from your home, especially if you do not use much throughout the winter. The longer the pile sits the more likely it is that pests will find a home in the wood.
- Trim back all tree and bush branches from your home as they serve as a bridge to get inside your home.
- Store and empty trash cans often, as they tend to invite wildlife to your property.
- Wash and clean the grill on your patio. The smell and grease drippings can attract all sorts of pests.
- Have pest control specialists regularly inspect and treat your home and property.
- Keep pet water and food bowls inside.
- Maintain a lawn maintenance program to ensure that pests do not overtake your lawn.
- Inspect trees and shrubs for any damage that may have been caused by pests.
- Begin harvesting and cleaning out your garden so pests do not see it as a free-for-all buffet.
Do you need help this fall managing pests? Call Pest-End Exterminators at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321 to have your home or property inspected and treated.
