As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in across the Western United States, businesses must prepare for an uptick in pest activity. The change in season prompts many pests to seek shelter, food, and warmth inside commercial properties, potentially leading to infestations that can disrupt operations, damage goods, and tarnish reputations. Here’s a state-by-state breakdown of the fall pest threats that businesses in the Western US should be aware of.
Washington & Oregon: Rodents and Moisture-Loving Pests
The Pacific Northwest’s wet and cool autumn climate is a magnet for rodents and moisture-seeking pests. As temperatures drop, rodents like mice and rats will attempt to enter buildings, drawn by the warmth and availability of food. Businesses in these states should be on the lookout for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings and gnaw marks. Additionally, pests like spiders, silverfish (Order zygentoma), and earwigs (Order dermaptera) may seek out damp areas within facilities, particularly in basements, storage rooms, and kitchens.
Prevention Tip: Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and utility openings. Maintain a clean and dry environment, especially in areas prone to moisture.
California: Ants and Overwintering Pests
California businesses often face challenges from various ant species, such as Argentine ants (Linepithema humile), which remain active throughout the fall. These pests can invade and contaminate food in storage areas and kitchens. Additionally, as temperatures cool, businesses may notice an increase in overwintering pests, such as boxelder bugs (Genus boisea) and stink bugs (Family Pentatomidae), which seek shelter inside buildings.
Prevention Tip: Keep food storage areas clean and sealed and ensure that entry points are well-secured. Regularly inspect the perimeter of your building for signs of pest activity.
Idaho & Montana: Rodents and Beetles
In Idaho and Montana, the cold weather drives rodents indoors, where they can cause significant damage to wiring, insulation, and stored products. Grain and food processing facilities should also be vigilant for beetles, which can infest stored products like grains, cereals, and flour.
Prevention Tip: Implement regular inspections of your storage areas and consider professional pest control measures to monitor and manage beetle populations. Rodent-proof your facility by sealing entry points and removing potential nesting materials.
Utah & Wyoming: Spiders and Wasps
As the weather cools in Utah and Wyoming, spider activity may increase indoors as these pests seek warmth. Common species such as the hobo spider (Eratigena agrestis) and black widow (Latrodectus Hesperus) can pose a threat to employees and customers. Businesses should also be wary of wasps and hornets, which can become more aggressive in the fall as they seek out sugary foods and drinks.
Prevention Tip: Keep windows and doors closed or screened and remove any potential spider habitats near building exteriors. Monitor areas where wasps and hornets are likely to build nests, such as eaves and outdoor storage areas.
Nevada & Arizona: Scorpions and Cockroaches
In the arid climates of Nevada and Arizona, businesses may encounter scorpions and cockroaches as temperatures cool. Scorpions, particularly the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) , seek out dark and cool spaces within buildings, posing a risk to employees and customers. Cockroaches, which thrive in warm, humid environments, may also invade kitchens and food storage areas in search of food and water.
Prevention Tip: Conduct regular inspections and keep areas around the building clear of debris where scorpions might hide. Maintain cleanliness in kitchens and food storage areas to minimize the attraction for cockroaches.
Colorado: Rodents and Cluster Flies
In Colorado, businesses should be vigilant against rodent infestations as these pests seek warmth indoors during the fall. Additionally, cluster flies (Genus pollenia), which are often mistaken for houseflies, may invade in large numbers, especially in older buildings. These flies are a nuisance and can gather in large groups, causing discomfort for employees and customers alike.
Prevention Tip: Ensure that your building is well-sealed against entry by pests and consider installing fly screens on doors and windows. Regularly clean and maintain all areas to reduce attractants.
Fall is a critical time for businesses across the Western United States to proactively manage pest risks. By understanding the specific threats in your area and implementing preventive measures, you can protect your business from costly infestations and ensure a safe and healthy environment for your employees and customers. For tailored pest management solutions, partner with Sprague, who understands the unique challenges of each region and can help you stay pest-free throughout the season.
Stay vigilant, stay proactive, and let’s keep pests at bay this fall!