As the crisp air of fall settles in, October brings both beauty and challenges to residents of New Jersey. While many enjoy the vibrant colors of the changing leaves and the cooler temperatures, this time of year also marks the beginning of increased pest activity. Many insects and animals start seeking shelter, warmth, and food as temperatures drop, often finding refuge in homes, garages, and other structures. Here’s a look at the most common pest problems homeowners in New Jersey face in October, and what can be done to prevent or control these invaders.
1. Rodents: Mice and Rats
As temperatures cool, rodents like mice and rats begin to look for warm shelter. They are adept at finding entry points into homes, often squeezing through tiny cracks in foundations, around doors, and through gaps in utility lines.
- Problems: Rodents are not just a nuisance; they can cause significant damage by chewing on wires, insulation, and even plumbing. This increases the risk of electrical fires and other home hazards. In addition, they can spread diseases like hantavirus and salmonella through their droppings.
- Prevention: Seal all cracks and openings in your home’s exterior, including around windows, doors, and utility pipes. Store food in airtight containers, and keep garbage sealed to avoid attracting rodents. Traps and professional rodent control may be necessary if an infestation is detected.
2. Stink Bugs
October is a prime time for stink bugs in New Jersey. As the weather cools, these insects look for warm places to overwinter, often entering homes through small cracks and gaps. While they do not bite or cause structural damage, they can be a major nuisance.
- Problems: Stink bugs emit a foul odor when disturbed or crushed, making their presence unpleasant. They often gather in large numbers on the sides of houses and can find their way inside.
- Prevention: To keep stink bugs out, ensure windows and doors are sealed properly, and consider using screens on attic vents. Once inside, vacuuming them up is an effective removal method, but avoid crushing them to prevent the release of their odor.
3. Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are another common pest in New Jersey during October. These black-and-red insects typically gather on the sunny sides of homes in large numbers as they search for warmth.
- Problems: Like stink bugs, boxelder bugs are not harmful but can become a nuisance when they congregate in large numbers. They may also find their way into homes, where they can stain curtains and walls with their excrement.
- Prevention: To prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home, seal all potential entry points, including cracks around doors, windows, and siding. Once inside, they can be removed with a vacuum cleaner.
4. Spiders
As the temperature drops, spiders often move indoors in search of warmth and prey. While most spiders found in New Jersey homes are harmless, their presence can still be unsettling for many people.
- Problems: Spiders help control other insect populations, but their webs can make your home feel unclean. Additionally, some species, like the black widow or brown recluse, can pose a threat if they bite, although they are not common in New Jersey.
- Prevention: Regularly clean and dust areas where spiders like to hide, such as basements, attics, and corners of rooms. Use caulk to seal cracks and gaps in walls and windows to prevent them from entering. Sticky traps can also help monitor spider activity.
5. Cluster Flies
During October, cluster flies start looking for warm places to overwinter, often finding their way into attics, walls, and other hidden areas of homes. These flies are larger than the common housefly and tend to move sluggishly.
- Problems: While cluster flies do not pose a health risk, their tendency to appear in large numbers can be a nuisance. They may gather in sunny windows or other warm spots in the house, buzzing around and occasionally dropping dead in large piles.
- Prevention: Sealing cracks around windows, doors, and the roofline can help prevent cluster flies from getting inside. Once they’re in, using a vacuum or fly traps can help manage the infestation.
6. Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants remain active into October, especially if temperatures are mild. These pests can cause significant structural damage to homes, as they burrow into wood to create their nests.
- Problems: Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it to create galleries for their nests. This can weaken structural components of homes over time. Carpenter ants are also attracted to moisture, so they may be found near leaky pipes or damp wood.
- Prevention: Repair any leaks or water-damaged wood around the home, and keep firewood and other wooden materials away from the house. Seal entry points and consider using bait or calling a professional if an infestation is detected.
7. Ladybugs (Asian Lady Beetles)
In October, Asian lady beetles, which resemble native ladybugs, become more active as they seek shelter to overwinter. These beetles are often mistaken for the familiar red ladybugs but can cause more problems for homeowners.
- Problems: Asian lady beetles can invade homes in large numbers, often congregating around windows and doors. They may leave stains on walls and fabric, and when disturbed, they release a foul-smelling yellowish liquid.
- Prevention: Like other overwintering pests, sealing entry points around windows, doors, and siding is crucial. Once inside, vacuuming is the most effective removal method, but avoid crushing them, as they can leave stains.
8. Ticks
While ticks are typically associated with spring and summer, they remain active into the fall, especially if temperatures are mild. In October, deer ticks are of particular concern, as they can transmit Lyme disease.
- Problems: Ticks can attach to both humans and pets, posing a serious health risk due to their ability to spread diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Ticks are often found in wooded areas and tall grasses.
- Prevention: Keep your yard well-maintained by trimming back tall grasses and removing leaf litter. Use tick-repellent products on both yourself and your pets when spending time outdoors, and check for ticks after outdoor activities.
Conclusion
October in New Jersey is a time when many pests become more active, seeking shelter from the cooler temperatures. From rodents and spiders to stink bugs and ticks, homeowners face a variety of pest challenges. The key to preventing infestations is preparation: sealing entry points, keeping your home clean, and addressing any moisture issues. If an infestation does occur, contacting a pest control professional is often the best course of action to ensure the problem is handled effectively and humanely.
By taking preventative steps and staying vigilant, you can enjoy the beauty of fall in New Jersey without the headache of unwelcome pests invading your home.