Most Active Pests in Autumn Months
We tend to believe that insects are only a problem during the warm, summer season, but there are actually a number of pests that come out to play during the cooler times of the year. Victorian home owners are especially vulnerable to insect infestation during autumn and winter, as temperatures rarely get low enough to kill them off.
It is very important to know what sort of pests to watch out for in autumn so that you can limit their harm before they cause major damage. Some autumn insects are gross or annoying, while others can put you or your home in danger. In either case, consider these factors to deter pests from your home this autumn.
- Termites
While termites are especially active during the summer, there are some varieties of subterranean termites that prefer cool weather. They also love moisture, so cold and damp environments are highly attractive. If your home or surrounding garden have damp or shady areas, termites will be attracted to this environment. - Cockroaches
Typically, cockroaches breed quickly and thrive in a wide range of environmental conditions. Autumn is no exception, and may send roaches marching straight into your home. Be sure to keep food items properly sealed and keep your home clean and organised to discourage their presence. - Rodents
Due to the colder weather mice and rats are more prevalent, our homes are very attractive to them as they supply food, water and shelter. Keep an eye out for droppings, damaged food packaging and sounds. - Moths
It is easy to attract moths to your home, as they love many common household items such as wool jumpers and grains, sugars or cereals of any sort. However, they can also be allured by exterior items such as certain trees and plants. Citrus Leafminer moths are one Victorian species that can severely affect the health of your garden– particularly during their breeding period, when leaf-hungry larvae are prolific. - Snails and Slugs
These slimy creatures seem pretty tame in comparison to other pests, but they can actually do quite a bit of damage to the roots of your plants. Don’t let snails and slugs eat your home grown produce before you can. Instead, educate yourself on effective ways to keep them away from your crops.
How to Detect Pests in Your Property
Aside from seeing insects themselves, there are certain less obvious signs that you are suffering from a pest infestation at your Melbourne home or business. Some indications may include finding insect droppings, nests, webs, wings or shells within or around your property.
Different types of insects have different nesting, breeding, molting and migration patterns, so it pays to educate yourself on these characteristics to figure out what sort of bug is affecting you. There are a multitude of resources available online to identify common Victorian insects. Additionally, the knowledgeable team at Dawson’s home pest controllers are happy to help you pinpoint whether you are at risk and what pests you are susceptible to.
If you are in need of pest control this autumn, call your Melbourne pest control specialists today at (03) 9222 2266.
