When The Leaves Fall The Bugs Will Crawl

WHEN THE LEAVES FALL THE BUGS WILL CRAWL

With autumn fast approaching, it is likely that homeowners will start experiencing an increase of overwintering insects and pests around their homes. Overwintering pests such as Boxelder Bugs, Cluster Flies, Kudzu Bugs, and Lady Bugs will begin searching for ways to enter homes and buildings in search of shelter to survive the winter. These insects are typically attracted to light colors and are often found on the south and west sides of homes, as they receive the most sun. They invade in large numbers and will often overwinter within the walls and attics of homes and buildings. They do little damage indoors but may stain walls and personal belongings. These insects may also produce a foul odor when crushed.

BOXELDER BUGS- Adults are about a 1/2-inch long and black in color with narrow reddish lines on their back. Boxelder Bugs feed primarily on the juices from boxelder trees and other plants such as maple trees.

CLUSTER FLIES- Large, robust, slow moving flies that are parasitic to earthworms. They will hibernate in the walls of buildings and will emerge in the spring or on warmer days.

KUDZU BUGS- These non-native insects are somewhat new to the United States. In October 2009 the Kudzu Bug was introduced into Northeast Georgia and has gradually moved north to Virginia. The Kudzu Bug will increasingly become a nuisance through mid-October and early November. Removing kudzu and other plants in the Legume family is the best possible solution in preventing Kudzu Bugs.

LADY BUGS- Many are native to the United States and are beneficial pests that feed on aphids and scale insects that damage crops and other plants. The one that gives us problems is the Asian Lady Beetle: this pest is not native to the United States and was introduced to control pests on pecan and apple trees. Asian Lady Beetles are more aggressive and abundant compared to native species.

WHAT TO DO: While it is impossible to totally prevent these pests from being attracted to your home, you can reduce or prevent them from overwintering inside your home:

· Consider plants less attractive to these overwintering pests.

· Seal all possible entry points to prevent entry into the home (for example: around doors and windows, gaps in siding, and around utility penetrations and vents).

· Use a vacuum to suck up pests you may find in your house.

· Hire a Pest Management Company to perform an inspection of your property and to provide preventive treatments.

For more information on pest prevention please visit Vision Pest Management at www.visionpmp.com or call 770-617-5722.