As the leaves begin to turn and a chill enters the air, we start spending more time indoors, cosying up for the colder months. Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones with this idea. Autumn is a prime time for various pests to seek shelter, warmth, and food inside our homes. The shift from summer to autumn signals a change in the behaviour of many animals and insects. As temperatures drop and natural food sources become scarce, pests begin their search for a safe place to overwinter. Our homes provide the perfect environment: consistent warmth, protection from the elements, and a reliable supply of food and water.

Small gaps in brickwork, cracks around windows, or vents can all serve as an open invitation. Once inside, these unwelcome guests can cause damage, contaminate food, and in some cases, pose health risks.

Knowing what to look for can help you prevent a small nuisance from becoming a major infestation.

Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Perhaps the most notorious of autumn invaders, rats and mice are experts at finding their way indoors. A mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of a biro, and a young rat can get through a gap no bigger than a 10p coin.

Why they are a problem:

Damage: They constantly gnaw on materials to keep their teeth trim, which can include electrical wires, wood, and plastic pipes. This creates a serious fire hazard and can lead to costly repairs.

Health Risks: Rodents carry diseases like Salmonella and Weil's disease, which can be transmitted through their droppings, urine, and saliva.

Contamination: They will raid your cupboards and pantries, contaminating food and surfaces as they go.

Signs of an infestation: You might hear scratching noises in walls or ceilings, find small, dark droppings, or notice gnaw marks on furniture and packaging. A distinct ammonia-like smell can also indicate their presence.

Spiders

While most spiders in the UK are harmless, autumn is their mating season. This is when you are most likely to see large house spiders moving about as males leave their webs in search of a female. They are often found in corners, sheds, and garages.

Why they are a problem:

Fear and Phobia: For many people, the primary issue with spiders is the fear they provoke. A sudden appearance can be quite alarming.

Webs: While not damaging, an abundance of webs can make a home feel unkempt and dirty.

Signs of an infestation: The most obvious sign is an increase in the number of spiders you see, along with a build-up of cobwebs in corners, around windows, and in undisturbed areas.

Cluster Flies

Unlike common houseflies, cluster flies do not breed indoors. Instead, they enter buildings in large numbers during the autumn to hibernate. They are often found clustering together in sun-facing attics, lofts, and wall voids, seeking warmth.

Why they are a problem:

Nuisance: While they don't pose a health risk, their sheer numbers can be a significant nuisance. On warmer days, they may emerge from their hiding spots and buzz around windows.

Staining: Their droppings can leave small dark spots on walls and window frames.

Signs of an infestation: The main sign is a large number of sluggish flies gathering around windows, particularly in upper rooms of the house. You might also notice a sickly, sweet smell in heavily infested areas.

Wasps

As autumn progresses, wasp colonies begin to break down. The queen will seek a sheltered spot to overwinter, such as in a loft, shed, or wall cavity. While the workers will eventually die off, a queen that successfully hibernates in your home can start a new nest nearby the following spring.

Why they are a problem:

Aggressive Behaviour: Late-season wasps can become more aggressive as they search for sweet foods, increasing the risk of stings.

Future Nests: An overwintering queen can lead to a new, larger problem in the spring.

Signs of a problem: Seeing a large number of wasps around your property, especially near potential entry points like eaves or air bricks, can be a warning sign. Finding a queen indoors is a clear indicator she is looking for a place to hibernate.

Notice Early Signs of an Infestation?

Contact Us Today to Request a Service

If you suspect you have an infestation, it's important to act quickly. While some minor issues, like a few spiders, can be managed on your own, larger problems often require professional help. For rodents, wasps, or cluster flies, contacting a certified pest control service is the safest and most effective solution. A professional can correctly identify the pest, assess the extent of the problem, and implement a targeted treatment plan to remove them and prevent their return. At Command Pest Control Ltd, we have over 35 years of experience providing pest, rodent, and insect control to commercial and domestic properties in Ipswich, Sudbury, Norwich, and the entire Norfolk and Suffolk counties.

Don't let uninvited guests spoil your autumn. By taking preventative measures, you can ensure your home remains a peaceful, pest-free sanctuary throughout the season. In the event you notice pests finding their way into your home, don’t wait. Enquire with us today to request a service.