Fall Invaders: What Bugs Try to Move Into Your Home When Temperatures Drop
When crisp fall air starts rolling into the Twin Cities, humans aren’t the only ones looking for warmth. As soon as temperatures begin to drop, pests start scouting out cozy places to spend the winter—your home included.
Here’s a look at the most common fall invaders in Minnesota homes and what you can do now to keep them out before the first freeze.
1. Boxelder Bugs
You’ll notice them clustering on the sunny side of your house in late fall. Once temperatures drop, they sneak in through cracks to overwinter indoors. While not harmful, they’re messy and tough to get rid of once inside.
Prevention Tips:
Seal around windows, doors, siding, and vents.
Vacuum up any bugs indoors—don’t crush them (they stain!).
Treat exterior walls with professional perimeter spray in early fall.
2. Asian Lady Beetles
Often mistaken for ladybugs, these invasive beetles swarm in large numbers and emit a foul odor when threatened. They’ll squeeze into walls and attics, often reappearing in the spring.
Prevention Tips:
Install screens on attic vents and chimneys.
Caulk around windows and doors before October.
Avoid DIY sprays—they can make infestations worse by driving bugs deeper indoors.
3. Spiders
As insects come indoors for warmth, spiders follow. You may see an uptick in web-building inside corners, closets, and basements.
Prevention Tips:
Keep basements dry and clutter-free.
Regularly vacuum corners and behind furniture.
Call for treatment if sightings increase—it may signal another pest problem.
4. Rodents
Mice and rats are active year-round, but fall is prime time for house entry. They only need a hole the size of a dime and can do serious damage once inside.
Prevention Tips:
Inspect foundations and siding for gaps or chew marks.
Store food and garbage in tightly sealed containers.
Listen for scratching sounds in walls or ceilings.
5. Stink Bugs
Named for the smell they release when squished, stink bugs head indoors en masse in the fall. Like boxelders, they’re more of a nuisance than a threat—but the sheer numbers can be overwhelming.
Prevention Tips:
Use weatherstripping on windows and doors.
Inspect soffits and rooflines for gaps.
Don’t swat—vacuum instead and empty bags promptly.
Stop Fall Pests Before They Settle In
Many fall invaders enter through small cracks you may not even see. That’s where professional help makes a big difference. At Be There Pest Control, we specialize in identifying vulnerable entry points and protecting your home before pests become a problem.
📞 Call (612) 448-3854 today to request a consultation or initial appointment. Let’s make sure the only thing you’re bringing indoors this fall is your sweater.