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September 23, 2024
Weather Changes Herald New Pest Problems In Auburn & All Of Maine
Now that mosquito season is ending in Auburn, Augusta, and across Maine, you might think you're in the clear and won’t have to worry about bugs until spring. But while summer pests like mosquitoes are retreating, a new wave of pests is already in formation to take their place. In fact, some of those summer pests may even reappear in your home during the colder months. Here's what you need to know about pests and the cooler weather seasons in Maine.
Insects search for shelter
Many insects, including lady bugs, earwigs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs, head indoors to escape the cold. They may find their way into protected areas, such as the basement, attic, and wall voids. While they’re not particularly harmful and may not even move around much, their presence can be unsettling.
Spiders will come looking for prey
If insects are in residence, you can count on spiders showing up. These arachnids rely on a steady supply of insects to survive, so as their prey moves indoors, they will naturally follow. It’s also entirely possible they’re already infesting your home if insects have been coming and going over the summer.
Carpenter ants may stick around
While most ants in Maine stay out of sight when it's cold, one species you should watch out for is the wood-destroying carpenter ants. These big black ants don't just visit; they make themselves comfortable by tunneling into wood. They can stay active throughout the winter if their nests are near heat sources like fireplaces or boilers. And when they need food, they’ll sneak into your kitchen at night. If carpenter ants are already hiding in your walls, they may not be leaving anytime soon.
Rodents want a warm place to spend the cold months
Most pests slow down during the winter, hunkering down in the ground or hiding in trees, crevices, logs, and other protected places indoors and out. But not all pests take a break and remain active even when the cozy sweaters are pulled out, and pumpkin spice is wafting in the air. Norway rats and house mice are especially known for finding ways into homes during cold weather. They follow the warmth and can chew their way inside, causing quite a headache. If you start noticing signs like droppings, odd noises in your walls, or chewed food packages, rodents may have moved in. Here's what to watch for:
- Rodent droppings
Check under the kitchen sink, in the back of drawers, in the garage, in the basement, or the attic. - Noises in the walls
If they've made a nest in the attic, you might hear scurrying as they travel through your home during the nighttime hours. - Chewed baseboards or food packages
Rodents have strong teeth and can easily chew through wood and food packaging. If your dog food or cereal has been mysteriously ripped open, they could be the culprit. - Odd smells
Rodent urine, especially if they've been around for a while, can become a noticeable issue.
Mice and rats may not come alone
Rodents aren’t the only unwanted guests you could contend with. If they get inside, they can bring fleas, ticks, and mites. These pests can spread through your home, putting your family and pets at risk. Not only do some bite, but they may even transmit diseases, making a rodent infestation even more troublesome.
What to do if you find pests in your home this fall or winter
Pine State Pest Solutions has your back if you’re dealing with rodents or other pests in your home. As a locally owned, Maine-based pest control company, we understand the unique pest challenges homeowners in our state face and offer year-round services to keep your home pest-free.
We offer three home pest control plans to eliminate and prevent insect and rodent problems. While plan features vary, all provide superior protection against most house-infesting bugs and rodents in our service area and come with our Pest Free Guarantee- at any point in between scheduled services, if you see pests in your house that are covered under your home protection plan, we will come out within 48 hours and service your home at NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE!
Compare our plans and pricing below, or contact us to learn more about our solutions and how we can help you exterminate mice and other nuisance and potentially harmful pests!
*initial start-up fees may apply.
This blog was originally published on November 28, 2019, and has been updated to reflect the most up-to-date information about pests and services.
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