Autumn Pest Prevention Tips

As the leaves turn golden and the weather cools down, autumn is a beautiful time of year in New Zealand. However, it’s also the time when many pests start to seek shelter and warmth inside homes. In this blog, we’ll discuss common autumn pests, key hotspots, and prevention tips to keep them out of your home.

Common Autumn Pests

Rodents - Rodents such as rats and mice can cause significant damage to homes by gnawing on wires and insulation. They can also carry diseases and contaminate food. During autumn, rodents will often enter homes to find warmth.

Cockroaches - Cockroaches are another common pest that can be a year-round problem. However, they tend to become more active in autumn as they seek shelter from the cooler temperatures. Cockroaches are known to carry diseases and can trigger allergies in some people.

Spiders - Autumn often sees an increase in spider activity as they seek shelter from the cooling temperatures. While most are harmless, some species can be dangerous. During autumn, spiders often enter homes searching for food or a warm place to hibernate. 

Key Hotspot for Common Autumn Pests

Autumn pests can enter your home through a variety of entry points. Some common hotspots for pest activity include:

• Cracks and gaps - Pests can easily squeeze through small cracks and gaps in your walls, doors, and windows. Check for any gaps or holes and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
• Moisture - Pests are attracted to moisture, so be sure to fix any leaks or standing water in your home.
• Garbage and compost - Properly dispose of garbage and compost to prevent attracting pests such as ants and cockroaches.
• Clutter - Pests like rodents and spiders can hide and breed in clutter, so keep your home tidy and free of unnecessary items.

Autumn pest prevention tips

Here are some tips to prevent autumn pests from entering your home:

• Keep your home clean: Regularly clean your home, particularly in areas where food is stored or prepared.
• Store food properly: Keep food in sealed containers to prevent pests from accessing it.
• Seal entry points: Seal any cracks, gaps, or holes in your home to prevent pests from entering.
• Fix leaks: Fix any leaks in your home to prevent moisture buildup that can attract pests.
• Maintain your yard: Keep your yard tidy and free of clutter to prevent pests from breeding and hiding.
• Call a pest control expert: Get your home treated professionally with pest prevention treatments

Still worried about pests in your home?

If you have or suspect a pest problem or would like to know more about protecting your home from autumn pests, contact us today.