CALL 
October 10, 2022
Did you know some cultures believe ladybugs bring good luck? If that is indeed fact, then luck is abounding in Maine right now. Either that or the cold weather has ladybugs on the move looking for warm shelter. Believe what you will but in this blog post, we’re going to go with the latter option and unpack it a little.
Why you’re finding ladybugs in and around your home
Ladybugs are one of many overwintering insects in Maine and rather than be exposed to cold, ice, and snow that are hallmarks of the winter season in the North, these harmless bugs move indoors. You might see one here and another there or you may find a bunch clustered together in the attic or somewhere else in your home.
They don’t damage anything and won’t spread disease
Unlike other overwintering pests that are capable of causing damage and/or transmitting illness, ladybugs are quite harmless. In fact, they are ectothermic insects that become dormant during the winter months. They enter into a period of diapause which in the simplest of terms means their life cycle development is put on pause. They won’t wander about (unless there’s a temporary warm-up outside) and they do not reproduce during this period of time. Once spring arrives and the warm weather sticks around, they’ll head back outdoors.
Unfortunately, if ladybugs are getting in, there’s a good chance other fall pests are too
Yes, it’s true; if ladybugs are able to find a way into your home it only goes to say other fall pests can as well. What’s more, those other “guys” may not be as house-friendly. Common fall pests in Maine include, but are not limited to:
- Cockroaches
- Earwigs
- Mice
- Silverfish
- Spiders
- Stink bugs
How to keep fall pests out
The best way to keep fall pests out is to hire a professional pest control company to create a barrier of protection around the perimeter of your home and treat any active infestations inside.
Of course, there’s a lot you can do to make your home and property less appealing to bugs and rodents. Try implementing these fall pest prevention tips:
- Do not store firewood on the deck, porch, or anywhere that touches your house.
- Only bring firewood inside that has been inspected for bugs and only carry in what you need for a day or so.
- Seal off any potential entry points on the exterior of your home- from cracks in the foundation to openings on the roofline.
- Install vent screens and a chimney cap to deter pests.
- Address any moisture problems inside your home, whether from a leaking pipe or appliance or from excessive moisture build-up.
- Remove A/C units from windows.
- Install or replace weather stripping around doors and windows.
Don’t forget to winterize your camp
If your camp is not a year-round one, make sure you consider bugs when closing up for the season and seal all holes and cracks like you would your home, clear the kitchen of ALL food, take care of anything that could cause water or moisture issues, and trim back tree branches so that insects and rodents cannot use them as a bridge to the structure.
Year-round home pest control services that keep pests out no matter the season
If you live in Auburn, Portland, or elsewhere in central or southern Maine and are looking for a pest control company that offers year-round home pest control services, Pine State Pest Solutions is the ideal choice. Locally owned and operated for more than 10 years, our team of pest control specialists take pride in solving existing pest problems and keeping pests out all year-round. Check out our residential plans and pricing below or give us a shout!
*initial start-up fees may apply
Subscribe