This autumn, while you’re admiring the changing leaves, uninvited guests might be seeking shelter in your home. Fall is a prime time for pests to make their move indoors, looking for warmth and food to survive the colder months ahead. Don’t worry, though – with some knowledge and preparation, you can keep your home pest-free.

Understanding the Reason Behind Fall Insect & Pest Invasions

You might be wondering why pests seem more active in the fall. It’s simple: survival instinct. As temperatures drop, many insects and small animals start looking for warmer places to spend the winter. Unfortunately, your home is often the perfect candidate. It’s warm, dry, and usually has plenty of food sources… everything a pest needs to thrive!

Common Pests in the Fall to Watch Out For

Let’s take a closer look at ten of the most common fall pests you might encounter in the Cleveland, Ohio area:

1. Rodents (Mice and Rats)

As the weather cools, mice and rats start seeking warmer environments. In Cleveland, it’s most likely you’ll encounter one of these three species: house mouse, deer mouse, and Norway rat.

These rodents aren’t just a nuisance — they can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks.

Some signs of rodent infestation include:

Droppings in pantries, under sinks, or along walls
Gnaw marks on food packaging or wooden structures
Scratching sounds in walls or ceilings, especially at night
Nests made of shredded paper or fabric in secluded areas

2. Spiders

In the fall months, you might notice more spiders indoors. That’s normal—they’re just looking for mates and shelter. While most spiders in Ohio are harmless and even beneficial (they eat other insects), the brown recluse is one to watch out for. Brown recluses prefer quiet, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and basements. While most bites aren’t fatal, their venom can cause severe and long-term damage.

3. Stink Bugs

Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs are considered an “invasive species” in Ohio and they’re notorious for invading homes in large numbers during fall. While they don’t cause damage, their unpleasant odor when crushed makes them a real nuisance.

Here’s what you need to remember about stink bug behavior this fall:

They often cluster on sunny exterior walls
They can squeeze through small cracks and gaps to enter homes
They become inactive indoors but reappear on warm days

4. Boxelder Bugs

Similar to stink bugs, boxelder bugs seek warmth in fall. They’re easily recognizable by their black bodies with red markings. While they don’t directly cause damage, they can stain surfaces if crushed.

5. Ladybugs (Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles)

Often mistaken for native ladybugs, these invasive beetles were introduced to Ohio in the 1970s and 1980s to control aphids in crop fields. While they might seem “cute” in gardens, they can quickly become a nuisance in large numbers, invading your home to find winter shelter.

6. Cluster Flies

These flies resemble house flies but are slightly larger and slower. They often appear in homes during late fall and gather in attics, wall voids, and unused rooms.

7. Wasps and Yellow Jackets

As their colonies reach peak size in late summer and fall, these stinging insects become more aggressive in their search for food. They may be attracted to sweet smells in and around your home.

Here’s what you need to know about fall wasp behavior in Ohio:

Increased activity around trash cans and outdoor eating areas
More likely to sting as they become desperate for food
Queens seek protected areas to overwinter, often in structures

Protecting Your Home: Fall Pest Control Tips

Now that you know what you’re up against, let’s dive into some effective strategies to keep these fall invaders at bay:

Seal Entry Points

One of the most effective ways to prevent pest invasions is to deny them entry in the first place. Take a thorough tour around your home’s exterior and look for potential entry points.

Areas to check and seal:

Gaps around windows and doors (replace weatherstripping if needed)
Cracks in the foundation or exterior walls
Openings around pipes, vents, and utility lines
Tears in window screens
Gaps under doors (install door sweeps)

Pro tip: Use caulk for small gaps and steel wool or copper mesh for larger openings – rodents can’t chew through these materials.

Maintain Your Yard

Your yard can be either a pest highway or a protective barrier. Proper landscaping and maintenance can significantly reduce pest problems.

Yard maintenance tips:

Keep grass cut short, especially near the house
Trim trees and shrubs away from your home’s exterior
Remove leaf piles and yard debris promptly
Store firewood at least 20 feet from the house and elevate it off the ground
Use pest-resistant plants in your landscaping

Manage Moisture

Many pests are attracted to damp environments. Eliminating excess moisture around your home can make it less appealing to pests. Here are a few moisture control measures you can take this fall:

Fix leaky pipes and faucets
Use dehumidifiers in damp basements or crawl spaces (common in older Ohio homes)
Ensure proper drainage around your foundation
Clean gutters regularly to prevent water accumulation
Address any standing water issues in your yard

Practice Proper Food Storage

Don’t give pests a reason to come inside. Proper food storage is crucial in preventing infestations.

Store dry goods (flour, sugar, cereals) in airtight containers
Keep fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator when possible
Clean up spills and crumbs immediately
Take out the trash regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids
Don’t leave pet food out overnight

Know When to Call a Professional

While many pest problems can be managed with DIY methods, some situations call for professional help. If you’re dealing with a large or persistent infestation, it’s best to consult with a pest control expert.

Signs you might need professional help

Visible pest damage despite your prevention efforts
Sounds of pests in walls or attics
Increasing numbers of pests despite control attempts
Health concerns related to certain pests (e.g., allergies, asthma triggers)

The Ultimate Fall Bug & Pest Control Checklist

To make your fall pest control efforts more manageable, here’s a handy checklist to follow:

Early Fall (September)

Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks and gaps
Seal any openings you find
Clean gutters and downspouts
Trim trees and shrubs away from the house
Remove fallen fruit from your yard
Check and repair window screens

Mid-Fall (October)

Continue yard maintenance, raking leaves regularly
Store summer items (grills, patio furniture) properly
Check the attic and basement for signs of pests
Set up natural repellents in problem areas
Deep clean your kitchen and pantry

Late Fall (November)

Seal gaps around heating and cooling units
Inspect holiday decorations for pests before bringing them inside
Continue regular cleaning and decluttering
Monitor indoor humidity levels
Consider professional pest inspection if you’ve had recurring issues

While prevention is key, sometimes fall pests can still find their way into your home despite your best efforts. If you’re dealing with a pest infestation that’s beyond your control, it’s time to call in the professionals at Lakewood Exterminating — take action now and schedule your pest control service!