Overwintering Pests

Tuscon AZ Professional Overwintering Pest Control

The overwintering pest classification consists of hundreds if not thousands of species, many of which can be found in Tucson, Arizona. It is only common knowledge, humans live among a variety of insect species. Unfortunately, most Tucson residents do not give much thought to these creatures until they encounter them face-to-face. There are a few people who are enthused with insects. You may or may not view yourself as an insect enthusiast. But, if you do, it is likely, the term overwintering pest is not new to your ears.

Overwintering Pest – What Is It?

Overwintering is a term utilized when speaking of insect species that hibernate throughout the winter season. Overwintering is similar to hibernation, as it allows the insect to survive on minimal nutrients derived from stored fat. When most people think of hibernation, the bear instantly comes to mind. Now, when you hear the term overwintering, you can think of insects. Of course, it is never this simple. Overwintering is an in-depth natural process that protects impacted insect species from early extinction.

Overwintering Pest – Box Elder “Boxelder” Bug

Boxelder bugs are nuisance pests with distinguishable characteristics – black wings outlined in bright red. The insect feeds on sap from seeds of various tree species – maple, cherry, box elder, and ash. The adult grows up to 0.5 (½) inches in length. With limited flying capabilities, the box elder bug can fly directly into open windows, and entrance and garage doors.

Boxelder bugs do not have stinging capabilities or transmit disease. They also utilize small cracks, holes, and crevices to infiltrate homes as well.

Overwintering Pest – Ladybug “Asian Ladybug”

The ladybug “Asian lady beetle” totes around a thin shell that covers the red, orange, or yellow polka-dotted wings. The insect’s small body allows it to utilize tiny holes and crevices to infiltrate buildings. Another characteristic that makes the ladybug notorious is its foul odor that derives from a pyridine-based secretion gland.

Overwintering Pest – Cluster Fly

Like the common housefly, the cluster fly infiltrates homes to avoid overwintering amid the harsh winter elements – snow, icy cold winds, rain, and single-digit temperatures. Cluster flies are one overwintering pest species that spread disease through bites and contaminated fecal droppings.

Unlike some overwintering pest species, the cluster fly regurgitates (vomits) with every landing. Even if the landing only lasts a few nanoseconds, the cluster fly regurgitates on the surface.

Like fleas, ticks, and bed bugs, cluster flies are parasites. Instead of the host being a mammal, the cluster fly host is an earthworm. The flying insect colonizes with others of its own species to forage for food and infiltrate homes.

Overwintering Pest – Leaf-Footed Pine Seed Bug

The leaf-footed pine seed bug is not as well-known as most other overwintering pests. The insect has a dull brown coloration, with three sets of elbow shaped-legs and two antennas. The adult grows up to 0.75 (¾) inches in length. Its large size makes visual detection easier after home infiltration.

In its natural habitat, the leaf-footed pine seed bug utilizes loose bark, brush, tall grass, and fir trees for shelter when overwintering. The insect colonizes or lives in groups of hundreds or thousands of species.

Overwintering Pest – Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are common across the United States. They’re roughly half an inch in length and came from Asia. Today, they’re more common than ever. Although they’re not dangerous, they can turn your home into a stinky mess. During the warm months, they’ll stay outside and consume plants and crops. If they’re not stopped, they will quickly destroy an entire crop. When it gets cold, they’ll try to hide in your home.

Stop that from happening or you’ll have a mess to clean up.

Signs Of Overwintering Pest Problems

Ultimately, overwintering pests tend to hide exceptionally well. Once they’ve invaded your home, you likely won’t realize it until it is too late. With that being said, you’ll need to wait for the pests to leave. When it gets warm outside, these pests will try to leave. As a result, you’re going to see them in large numbers. If you find lots of overwintering pests in your home during spring, you had an overwintering pest problem.

Preventing Overwintering Pests From Invading

Thankfully, there are several things you can do to stop these pests from invading your home. You might not be able to stop them completely, but you can make a difference. Using exclusion materials to seal the gaps around your home is recommended.

Sealing Small Openings

You’ll need to seal small openings around your home. Sealing the gaps will prevent overwintering pests and other pests from invading.

Using A Protective Barrier Treatment

It is a good idea to talk to an exterminator about a protective barrier treatment. These products can stop overwintering pests and other pests from reaching your home. A professional will take advantage of industrial-strength products to stop these bugs from reaching your home. They last longer and provide reliable results.

Where To Look For Gaps

Bricks & Mortar

You’re going to find small gaps near your brick and mortar joints. Sealing these gaps can make a big difference. It’ll prevent pests from invading your home. Using sealant is a good way to remedy this issue.

Window Frames

You may want to seal the gaps around your window frames. In all likelihood, the sides are sealed but the bottom is not. Seal the bottom gap so bugs cannot clip into your home.

Fascia & Clapboard

There is an uneven surface on the clapboard. As a result, this will leave small gaps around your home. These gaps need to be filled to stop prevents from invading. Block these gaps using a foam insulating cord.

Attic Vents

Be sure to seal gaps around attic vents. If the vent cover is damaged, it needs to be fixed immediately. Replace the vent to ensure that pests cannot invade your home.

Utilities

Always seal utility openings around your home. You can likely find small gaps around water pipes and electrical cables. Fill in these gaps using old pot scrubbers. Do that and pests won’t be able to invade your home. Using old pot scrubbers is recommended because they’re easier to work with.

Calling our office and working with a professional can help. We’ll do everything we can to keep these pests out of your home.

Sealing Your Home With Exclusion Materials

Don’t forget to use exclusion materials to stop pests from invading your home. Using the right pest-proofing products will make a big difference in the long run. They’ll defend your home from overwintering pests and other pests.

Picking The Right Materials

Remember that caulk works best for surfaces that will not see movements. For instance, you should use caulk to seal brick services. Otherwise, you’ll want to use a sealant. They work best for aluminum and wood surfaces.

More Exclusion Materials

Don’t forget to take advantage of other exclusion materials such as foam insulation, hardware cloth, and pot scrubbers.

• Foam insulation is great for eliminating long gaps
• Aluminum screening is cost-effective. It provides long-lasting results.
• Hardware cloth can work effectively as a heavy-duty screen.
• Pot scrubbers are great for filling small holes.

Do you need assistance pest-proofing your home? Contact our office and learn more from qualified professionals.

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