Top 5 Pests to Watch Out for in Southern Ontario During Fall

Posted on 2024-10-18

As fall settles in across Southern Ontario, pests are on the move, searching for warmth and shelter as temperatures drop. For homeowners in Barrie, Orillia, and Newmarket, this seasonal shift often means dealing with an influx of unwanted critters seeking refuge indoors. Let’s dive into the top 5 pests to watch out for in Southern Ontario during fall and how to keep them out of your home.

1. Rodent Control (Mice & Rats)

One of the most persistent and problematic fall pests in Barrie and surrounding areas are rodents, particularly mice and rats. As the weather cools, these pests seek warmth in homes, basements, attics, and garages. What’s concerning about rodents is their ability to squeeze through even the tiniest of cracks, making it essential to inspect and seal entry points. Rodents can cause structural damage by chewing on wires and wood, and they carry diseases, so swift rodent control is necessary. Setting traps and using rodent baits can help, but if the infestation is large, contacting a rat & mice exterminator in Barrie is your best option.

2. Get Rid of Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are becoming a more common nuisance in Newmarket and Orillia during fall. These shield-shaped insects are known for their unpleasant odor when disturbed. They enter homes for the Winter and can often be found on windowsills, ceilings, and inside walls. Though stink bugs are harmless to humans, they can be a significant annoyance. To prevent them from entering, seal cracks around windows and doors and consider installing fine mesh screens over vents. Using natural repellents like neem oil or contacting a professional for stink bug removal can keep them from invading your home.

3. Spider Infestations

While spiders are active year-round, many species become more visible in homes during fall. They enter seeking warmth and often make their webs in corners, basements, and garages. While most spiders found in Southern Ontario are not dangerous, they can still be unsettling. Maintaining a clean home, especially in less-trafficked areas, will reduce spider activity. If the problem persists, hiring a spider exterminator can help ensure thorough removal. Using pest control sprays designed for spider prevention can also be effective, especially for homes in Newmarket and Orillia where older buildings might have more entry points.

4. Prevent Cluster Flies

Cluster flies are another fall invader you may notice in areas like Orillia. These pests look similar to houseflies but are slower and tend to gather in large groups around windows and doors. Cluster flies enter homes during fall to hibernate and can become a nuisance as they gather in attics and wall voids. A professional pest exterminator in Barrie or Newmarket can inspect your home and apply preventative treatments to keep cluster flies from invading. Sealing gaps and cracks is another effective way to keep them out.

5. Cockroach Control

Cockroaches are a year-round problem, but they become particularly troublesome in fall as they search for food and warmth. Cockroach infestations are harder to detect at first because they hide in dark, damp areas, such as under sinks and behind appliances. For homes in Barrie and Orillia, proper sanitation is key to cockroach prevention. Ensure that all food is sealed, clean up spills immediately, and remove clutter where cockroaches might hide. If you notice signs of an infestation, it’s critical to act fast, as cockroaches multiply quickly. Professional cockroach extermination in Newmarket is often the most effective solution.

Protecting Your Home From Pests This Fall

To prevent these fall pests from invading your home, a proactive approach is essential. Inspect your property for entry points, seal any gaps or cracks, and maintain a clean, clutter-free environment. While DIY solutions can help, professional pest control services in Barrie, Orillia, and Newmarket offer long-term protection tailored to your home’s specific needs. Fall is the perfect time to schedule a home inspection to ensure that pests stay out as temperatures drop.

By staying vigilant and addressing potential pest issues early, you can keep your home pest-free and enjoy a comfortable fall season in Southern Ontario.