As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, it’s not just the temperature that’s changing, so is the behavior of the insects and wildlife around us. While fall is a beautiful season to enjoy more time outside, it’s also when many pests begin seeking warmth and shelter, often inside our homes and gardens. To help you prepare, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has released its Fall & Winter 2024 Bug Barometer, offering detailed predictions on pest trends across different regions of the U.S.
At ohDEER, we specialize in all-natural solutions for keeping your home and landscape free from harmful pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and deer. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the pest forecast for each region of the country, giving you a better understanding of what to expect and how to defend your home against a potential pest invasion.
The NPMA’s Bug Barometer is a seasonal pest forecast based on weather patterns and pest behavior trends. By predicting population spikes and pest movement in each region of the U.S., the Bug Barometer helps homeowners prepare for the influx of pests that often comes with changing seasons.
Let’s break down the 2024 pest predictions by region and discuss what you can do to prevent these unwanted guests from taking over your home or yard.
In the Northeast and New England, colder temperatures mean pests will be looking for warmth. Ants, particularly odorous house ants, are expected to start seeking indoor shelter. Rodents, including mice and rats, will also be a major concern as they invade homes to escape the chilly weather.
Cockroaches, another frequent fall invader, will head indoors seeking both warmth and food. These pests are not only unsightly, but they also carry diseases and can trigger allergies. The Bug Barometer predicts above-average activity for all of these pests in the region, so it’s important to be proactive in sealing cracks and gaps around your home and storing food securely.
Prevention Tips:
In the Southeast, warm and humid conditions have extended the mosquito season well into the fall. This year, mosquito activity is expected to remain high, which is concerning as these pests can transmit dangerous diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). Ticks are also expected to thrive during the fall months, posing a serious risk to both pets and humans due to the threat of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
Cockroaches will continue to be a significant pest indoors as they look for moisture and food sources. Homeowners should be especially cautious of these resilient pests, as they’re difficult to eliminate once they establish themselves.
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The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Midwest regions can expect an influx of overwintering pests like stink bugs and boxelder bugs. These pests seek shelter inside homes as temperatures drop, and while they are not typically dangerous, they can be a nuisance in large numbers.
Rodents will also be an issue in these areas, with mice and rats looking for indoor nesting spots. As rodents are capable of causing serious structural damage by gnawing on wires and insulation, preventing their entry is crucial.
Prevention Tips:
The North Central U.S. will see an increase in rodent activity, with both rats and mice moving indoors to escape the cold. Alongside rodents, spiders are also expected to make their way inside homes as the weather cools down.
While most spiders are harmless, some species, like the brown recluse, can pose health risks. It’s essential to keep an eye out for these pests, especially in basements, attics, and other dark, undisturbed areas of your home.
Prevention Tips:
In the Southwest, warm temperatures and fluctuating rainfall have extended mosquito activity into the fall months. This is particularly concerning for homeowners who enjoy spending time outdoors, as mosquitoes can ruin outdoor activities and spread diseases.
Ants will also remain active throughout the fall, particularly fire ants, which can become aggressive if disturbed. Invasive species like the Argentine ant can create supercolonies that are difficult to manage without professional help.
Prevention Tips:
In the Northwest, both ants and spiders will be on the move as the weather cools. Odorous house ants and pavement ants are likely to seek food indoors, while spiders such as the hobo spider will also start invading homes.
Rodents, particularly rats and mice, are expected to increase in number as they look for warm nesting sites. To protect your home from these pests, it’s important to take preventive measures before the colder months hit.
Prevention Tips:
No matter where you live, it’s important to take steps to protect your home from fall and winter pests. With these fall 2024 pest predictions in mind, you’ll be better prepared to tackle whatever pests come your way. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to reach out to ohDEER for professional help in preventing dangerous pests like ticks and mosquitoes on your property.
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