It’s time to pack away those bikinis, flip flops and sun hats and get out the rain coats, wellies and fluffy socks. As we bid a fond farewell to summer, our attention now turns to the colder months. It’s a common misconception that, as we go into the colder months, pest activity decreases. Each season poses its own pest problems with different pests being active at different times - autumn does not mean we can become complacent when it comes to pest control. Here are the top five pests you should be looking out for this coming season.
Rodents
We’ve had a bit of a respite from these pesky pests and their numbers don’t necessarily increase during the colder months. They may appear lower in summer due to the warm weather and abundant food sources outdoors, which makes them less likely to seek shelter and food in our properties. As the temperatures drop, however, that's when we’ll begin to spot them in our homes and businesses. Both mice and rats can squeeze through small openings, so ensuring all gaps are sealed is essential to keeping these pests out.
Spiders
We are now approaching spiders mating season, and our lovely warm homes are the perfect place for it! Sealing gaps around windows and doors will help prevent them from entering. Spiders often spin their webs near to a light source as their food source (flying insects) are attracted to light, so minimise outdoor lighting. They love to hide amongst our possessions, so decluttering your home removes their hiding places.
Cluster Flies
These flies are dark grey and larger than common house flies. They congregate in large numbers (hence the name) and often enter lofts and attics. As well as sealing entry points, regularly inspect and clean areas you don’t often use, like the attic, which is the perfect place for them to hide.
Wasps
Wasp nests are still active during early autumn, although they are in their decline phase. This is the time of year they are on the hunt for sugary foods to sustain themselves. This is when we begin to see them in our homes in search of food. Ensuring food is correctly stored and areas like kitchens are kept clean is essential to keeping wasps at bay. Wasp nests can also be very large at this time of year, so be very careful before venturing anywhere near them. If you think you have one in your loft space it’s best to ask for professional assistance.
Fleas
Warm weather is ideal for flea breeding, but as the temperatures drop, our homes become the new perfect breeding site! This is why we begin to spot them more in our properties this time of year. A big carrier of fleas is our pets, as they now begin to spend more time inside they can easily carry them into our homes. Ensuring regular pet treatment and thorough cleaning is your best line of defence against these tiny pests.
As the leaves change, the weather turns and many animals go into hibernation don't be fooled into thinking pests won’t still be around to bother you. Want to be ahead of the game this season? Call us today for a free inspection: 020 8668 5477.