5 Pests That Love Sacramento Homes in Fall—And How to Stop Them
When fall rolls in, you’re probably thinking about seasonal candles, backyard fire pits, and maybe a few extra layers. But you know who else loves fall? Pests.
As the temperatures drop, pests like rodents, spiders, and cockroaches go hunting for warmth, shelter, and food—and your home checks all the boxes. That’s why fall is one of the most important times of year to stay proactive with pest prevention.
Here are the top 5 infestations to watch out for this season—and how to keep them from moving in.
1. Rodents Looking for a Cozy Nest
Cold weather sends mice and rats on the move. Your attic, garage, or crawl space becomes prime real estate once outdoor temperatures dip.
What to Watch For:
- Droppings
- Gnaw marks on wiring or packaging
- Scratching in the walls
Prevention Tips:
- Seal gaps around the foundation, windows, and vents
- Keep trash sealed and food stored in airtight containers
- Store firewood far from the house
2. Spiders on the Hunt for Mating Spots
Fall is mating season for many spider species—including the not-so-friendly ones like black widows. They hide in garages, attics, and basements where they’re unlikely to be disturbed.
What to Watch For:
- Webs in corners or storage areas
- Spiders near clutter or stacked boxes
Prevention Tips:
- Declutter storage zones
- Use peppermint oil or other natural repellents
- Seal cracks along baseboards, vents, and doorways
3. Ants Searching for Food
Argentine ants and odorous house ants are especially aggressive in the fall, often making their way into kitchens and bathrooms as food sources outdoors disappear.
What to Watch For:
- Trails near sinks, pantries, or baseboards
- Ants around pet food bowls or trash bins
Prevention Tips:
- Clean up crumbs immediately
- Store food properly
- Fix moisture issues that attract ants indoors
4. Cockroaches Seeking Heat and Humidity
Cockroaches thrive in warm, moist conditions, making your kitchen, bathroom, and even basement the perfect hideout in cooler months.
What to Watch For:
- Shed skins or egg casings
- A musty odor
- Roaches spotted at night
Prevention Tips:
- Keep your kitchen spotless
- Fix leaks or moisture problems
- Seal off all small cracks and crevices
5. Termites Starting New Colonies
While termites can be active year-round, fall is an ideal time for some species to swarm and establish new colonies in or near your home.
What to Watch For:
- Winged termites or discarded wings
- Mud tubes along foundations
- Hollow-sounding wood
Prevention Tips:
- Schedule a professional inspection
- Remove wood debris around your home
- Use termite barriers or monitoring systems if needed
The Best Defense? A Professional Fall Pest Check
Even with good DIY prevention, some pests still find a way in. That’s where Pest Control Center can help.
We offer:
- 🧰 Custom fall inspection and treatment plans
- 🕷 Targeted solutions for spiders, rodents, ants, and more
- 🧼 Preventive services that stop infestations before they start
Our team knows how fall pests behave in Sacramento and El Dorado—and we know how to stop them quickly, safely, and effectively.
Don’t Let Pests Settle In This Fall
A little prevention now means a lot fewer surprises later. Whether you’re already spotting signs or just want peace of mind, now’s the perfect time to get ahead of the problem.
📍 Sacramento Office: (916) 344-4400
📍 El Dorado Hills Office: (530) 622-4810
Book your fall pest inspection today—and enjoy the season, pest-free.
