As fall approaches in Jacksonville, the cooler temperatures can bring a slight relief from the summer heat! Unfortunately, this season also invites a variety of pests into our homes to seek out warmth, food, and shelter as the outdoors become less hospitable to them. Knowing which pests to look out for and how to prevent them is key to maintaining a comfortable and pest-free home. Here are some common fall pests in Jacksonville to look out for.
Common Fall Pests in Jacksonville
Rodents
As temperatures drop, rodents seek shelter and food inside homes. They can cause significant damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and even structural components. Additionally, these pests can pose health risks by spreading diseases through their droppings.
Rodent Prevention Tips:
- Seal cracks and holes in your home’s exterior, including gaps around doors and windows.
- Keep food stored in airtight containers and clean up crumbs promptly.
- Use traps or contact a pest control professional at the first sign of rodent activity.
Roaches
Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments, making Jacksonville an ideal habitat. They can contaminate food, spread bacteria, and trigger allergies and asthma. Common cockroach species found in Florida include the American, German, and Australian.
Roach Prevention Tips:
- Keep your kitchen clean by wiping down counters and sweeping floors regularly.
- Fix any leaks or moisture issues, as cockroaches are attracted to water sources.
- Seal entry points around doors, windows, and pipes to prevent them from getting inside.
Ants
Ants are persistent and can easily enter homes in search of food. While some species are simply a nuisance, others, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood.
Ant Prevention Tips:
- Keep food, especially sweets, sealed and stored properly.
- Regularly check for and seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, windows, and doors.
- Trim trees and shrubs away from your home, as they can provide a bridge for ants to enter.
Spiders
While most spiders are harmless and can even help control other pests, some species, like black widow, are venomous and can pose a threat to humans.
Spider Prevention Tips:
- Reduce clutter inside your home where spiders like to hide, such as basements, attics, and garages.
- Keep outdoor lights off when not needed, as they attract insects, which in turn attract spiders.
- Use caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors to keep spiders from getting inside.
Termites
Jacksonville’s warm, humid climate allows both drywood and subterranean termites to be active year-round. However, in fall, subterranean termites may become more active as they seek out new food sources. They can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home if left unchecked.
Termite Prevention Tips:
- Ensure that your home’s foundation is properly sealed and that there are no cracks or gaps.
- Keep woodpiles and mulch away from the foundation of your home.
- Schedule regular termite inspections, especially if you’ve had issues in the past.
Mosquitoes
Although more associated during the summer season, mosquitoes can remain active in Jacksonville through fall, especially if the weather stays warm. They are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and Zika.
Mosquito Prevention Tips:
- Eliminate standing water around your property where mosquitoes breed, such as in birdbaths, clogged gutters, or plant saucers.
- Use mosquito repellents when spending time outdoors.
- Consider installing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
By taking proactive steps to prevent these common fall pests in Jacksonville, you can protect your home and enjoy the cooler weather without unwanted company. If you see more pest activity than you’re comfortable with, it’s best to call a pest control company near you. These professionals will provide the best treatment and prevention plan going forward to help prevent these pests.
