Common Fall Pests in Taylor, AZ and How to Keep Them Out

As the temperatures begin to cool down in Taylor, AZ, the fall season brings with it a beautiful change in scenery. However, it also brings an increase in pest activity as various critters seek warmth and shelter in your home or business. From rodents to spiders, these common fall pests can cause significant problems if left unchecked. At Neff Exterminating, we’re here to help you identify these pests and provide effective strategies to keep them out of your property this season.

Common Fall Pests in Taylor, AZ

1. Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Rodents are one of the most common fall pests in Taylor, AZ. As the weather cools down, mice and rats start looking for warm places to nest and often find their way into homes and businesses. Once inside, they can cause significant damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and even walls. Rodents also pose a health risk as they can carry diseases such as hantavirus and salmonella.

Signs of Rodent Activity:

• Droppings in cabinets, drawers, or along baseboards
• Gnaw marks on food packaging, wires, or furniture
• Nests made from shredded paper, fabric, or insulation
• Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings

2. Spiders

While many spiders are harmless, they can still be a nuisance when they start moving indoors during the fall. Common spiders in Taylor, AZ include the black widow and brown recluse, both of which can deliver painful bites. Spiders often seek out dark, undisturbed areas of your home, such as basements, attics, and storage spaces.

Signs of Spider Infestations:

• Webs in corners, ceilings, or other secluded areas
• Seeing spiders in your home, especially in dark, hidden spots
• Shed spider skins or egg sacs

3. Ants

Although ants are more commonly associated with the warmer months, they can still be a problem in the fall. As the weather cools, ants often invade homes in search of food. Carpenter ants, in particular, can cause significant damage by tunneling through wood to build their nests.

Signs of an Ant Infestation:

• Trails of ants leading to food sources in your kitchen or pantry
• Piles of sawdust or wood shavings, which may indicate carpenter ants
• Small holes in wooden structures, also a sign of carpenter ants

4. Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments and are known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions. As fall sets in, these pests may seek out the warmth of your home. Cockroaches are a major health hazard as they can spread bacteria and trigger allergies, especially in children.

Signs of a Cockroach Infestation:

• Droppings that resemble coffee grounds or pepper
• A strong, musty odor
• Smear marks along walls or surfaces
• Seeing cockroaches during the day, which may indicate a severe infestation

5. Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are a relatively new pest problem in Taylor, AZ, but they can be a nuisance in the fall. These pests are known for their foul odor, which they release when threatened or crushed. Stink bugs often enter homes in large numbers during the fall, seeking warmth and shelter.

Signs of a Stink Bug Infestation:

• Seeing large numbers of stink bugs around windows, doors, or lights
• Finding stink bugs inside your home, especially in attics or crawl spaces
• A strong, unpleasant odor when the bugs are disturbed

How to Keep Fall Pests Out of Your Home

Preventing fall pests from entering your home is the first step in maintaining a pest-free environment. Here are some effective strategies to keep these common fall pests out:

1. Seal Entry Points

Pests can enter your home through even the smallest cracks and gaps. Inspect your home’s exterior and seal any potential entry points to prevent pests from getting inside.

Tips for Sealing Entry Points:

• Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows and doors.
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors to close gaps between the door and the threshold.
• Repair or replace damaged screens on windows, vents, and chimney openings.
• Use steel wool or wire mesh to seal gaps around pipes, vents, and utility lines.

2. Maintain Cleanliness

Pests are attracted to food and water sources. Keeping your home clean and free of crumbs, spills, and standing water can help deter pests from entering.

Cleaning Tips:

• Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
• Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, especially in the kitchen.
• Take out the trash regularly and keep garbage bins sealed.
• Fix any leaks or standing water sources in your home to prevent pests from finding a water source.

3. Reduce Clutter

Clutter provides hiding spots for pests like rodents and spiders. Keep your home organized and reduce clutter to make it less inviting for pests.

Decluttering Tips:

• Keep storage areas like basements, attics, and garages tidy and free of clutter.
• Store items in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes, which can attract pests.
• Regularly clean and declutter areas where pests are likely to hide, such as under furniture, in closets, and in storage rooms.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Your yard can be an entry point for pests looking to get inside. Proper yard maintenance can help reduce the likelihood of pests migrating indoors.

Yard Maintenance Tips:

• Trim back trees, shrubs, and bushes away from your home to eliminate potential bridges for pests.
• Rake up leaves and debris regularly to remove potential hiding spots for pests.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground.
• Keep gutters clean and ensure proper drainage to avoid standing water, which can attract pests.

5. Schedule a Professional Pest Inspection

Even with the best preventative measures, it’s still possible for pests to find their way inside. Scheduling a professional pest inspection in the fall can help identify potential pest problems before they become major infestations.

Benefits of a Professional Inspection:

• Early Detection: A professional can identify signs of pest activity early and provide targeted treatments.
• Customized Solutions: If pests are found, a professional can offer customized solutions to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home has been thoroughly inspected and protected gives you peace of mind as you head into the fall season.

Schedule your fall pest inspection with Neff Exterminating today to ensure your home stays pest-free this season. Contact us here to get started.

Pest Control in the White Mountains

Fall is a beautiful time of year in Taylor, AZ, but it’s also a time when pests become more active and seek shelter indoors. By taking proactive steps to seal entry points, maintain cleanliness, reduce clutter, and keep your yard well-maintained, you can protect your home from these common fall pests. Additionally, scheduling a professional pest inspection with Neff Exterminating ensures that your home remains pest-free throughout the season.

Don’t let fall pests take over your home. Contact Neff Exterminating today to request a service and keep your home protected all season long. Click here to get started.

For more information on our services and to schedule an inspection, visit our website or call us at (928) 536-6862. Let us help you enjoy a pest-free fall season!