As the vibrant leaves turn and the air gets crisper, the fall in Santa Fe brings a unique charm. But along with the seasonal beauty comes a set of unwelcome guests: pests that can “bug” both residents and visitors alike. Let’s take a closer look at the pests that tend to invade homes during this time of year and how to manage them effectively.
As the weather cools, many spider species become more active and seek shelter indoors. While some spiders are harmless, others can be a nuisance. The common house spider and the infamous black widow can often be found spinning webs in corners and basements.
Tip:
Keep your home tidy by regularly vacuuming corners and removing webs. Sealing cracks around windows and doors can also deter these eight-legged intruders.
When temperatures drop, ants like the odorous house and pavement ants start looking for warmer places to settle. They can enter homes searching for food, often forming long trails to kitchen counters and pantries.
Tip:
Keep food sealed in airtight containers and promptly clean up crumbs and spills. If you spot a trail, follow it to locate the nest and use bait traps for adequate control.
As the temperatures drop, mice and rats seek warmth inside your home. The house mouse and the roof rat are particularly common in Santa Fe during fall. These rodents can both carry diseases and cause damage to your property.
Tip:
Seal entry points around your home, especially around pipes and vents. Setting up traps and using bait stations can help control these pesky invaders.
Yellowjackets and wasps are active in the fall, often seen scavenging for food. While they are typically less aggressive around this time of the year, their nests can pose a risk, especially if disturbed.
Tip:
Avoid leaving food out during outdoor activities, and consider hiring a professional to remove nests safely if they’re located near your home.
While many people enjoy ladybugs for their pest-control abilities, these colorful beetles can still become a nuisance as they seek warmth indoors during fall. They tend to cluster in large numbers, which can be disconcerting.
Tip:
To deter ladybugs, seal any gaps around windows and doors. If they enter your home, you can gently vacuum them up and release them outside.