Fall Nuisance Pest Prevention For South Carolina Residents

Box Elder Bugs

Box elder bugs are given their name because they enjoy living on box elder trees. The easiest way to identify these bugs are the red or orange markings on their wings and bodies. They are often found huddled together in large numbers. When outdoors, box elder bugs will often congregate on the south side of rocks and trees to soak up the sunshine. As the weather gets even colder, they’re likely to make their way inside buildings and homes where they’ll spend the winter. You’ll notice them entering in the fall and re-emerging in the spring. Box elder bugs can bite, but it’s unlikely that they will. If they do, it will result in a small, red bump similar to a mosquito bite. Their bite is not considered dangerous.

Ladybugs

Ladybugs are easily recognized by their red coloring and black spots. However, their oval-shaped bodies can also be tan or orange. Ladybugs are actually very beneficial in the way they eat aphids, which are insects that feed on plants. It’s when they start invading homes that they become a nuisance. These pests can also congregate in large numbers, creating an overwhelming infestation within a short period of time. On warm days, you’re likely to notice them around your windows, sunbathing. Ladybugs are not considered dangerous.

House Crickets

House crickets are tan in color with three dark bands around the head. They have six legs, antennae, and a set of wings. Crickets are well known for their chirping noise that’s made when they rub their wings together. Being nocturnal, you’ll hear this noise during the night when they’re most active. They enjoy damp, dark places such as basements and crawl spaces. Once they’re indoors, the chirping can be a nuisance while people are trying to sleep. They are attracted to lights and will feed on clothes or other fabric, damaging the items.

Centipedes

Centipedes are identified by their long bodies and many legs. These pests don’t cause harm but they can cause a scare and be quite a nuisance. They’re known as the “hundred-leggers”, but they actually have anywhere from 15 to 177 pairs of legs. Centipedes can be yellowish to dark brown in color and may have dark markings on their body. These pests are also found in areas of high moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. You’ll notice them in plant pots, around rotting logs, under rocks, and other places as well. They’re nocturnal and will feed on flies, spiders, and sometimes plant tissue.

Most of these pests only need a tiny crack or hole to allow them to sneak their way inside your home. It’s helpful to prep your house in order to protect it from these invasions. Make sure to seal all openings that you can find around the exterior of your house or building. Caulk any gaps or cracks found around doors and windows and fix any damaged screens. Reducing water and moisture can make your home less attractive to pests. You can do this by purchasing a dehumidifier and keeping sinks and drains clean and clear. Your food could attract some pests, so keep food stores well protected and sealed. For more information, check out our fall prevention tips blog.

Aiken can help you with all of these fall pests this season. Whether preventing fall pests in your home or eliminating a current infestation, contact us today to find out how we can partner with you to get the job done. Our home pest control program covers 30+ pests with guaranteed protection. We’ll provide a free, no-obligation home inspection, followed by quarterly services offering the best pest protection.