Outdoor Pests Seek Winter Homes
Dr. William Shockey, Extension Agent, Preston County
West Virginia University Extension Service
Each year I like to remind homeowners that there are many outdoor insects and pests that are looking for a warm place to spend the winter. Perhaps you have already fallen victim to a few. Before things get too out of hand, try some of these defensive strategies.
- Survey your home’s exterior to identify openings. Pay particular attention to the edges of siding, window caulking, and attic ventilation screens. Repair or patch all openings.
- Keep windows and doors, including your garage door, closed. Open only to enter or exit and take a quick look around for bees or other insects before opening.
- Remove debris from around the outside of your house. Get rid of those old boards you’ve been saving for a possible project. Discard fallen fruit from under trees and pick up around any outdoor picnic areas.
- Put any old leaves, grass clippings, or shrubbery trimmings into a compost pile located some distance from the house.
- Lay down a barrier of insecticide around the outside of you house. A general purpose insecticide labeled for outdoor use can be sprayed on the ground extending 2 to 3 feet from the foundation, around windows, under eaves, and along siding joints. Check the label for effective time; some can have residual activity up to 3 or more weeks.
Wasps and bees are very obvious, unfriendly guests. Bee stings can be painful, and to those of us who suffer from allergies, dangerous. Ants and earwigs are not only unsightly, but often contaminate food such as opened sugar and flour containers.
Don’t forget our “friend” the Asian Lady Beetle. Although harmless, except to those who are sensitive to their oils, they are very pesky houseguests as they get into walls, ceiling lights, and food storage areas. This insect generally seeks a winter residence during first two or three weeks in October. Homeowners should plan their defense strategies for this guest now.
For more information about controlling household insects, contact your local WVU Extension Service County Office.
