It might be hard to imagine now with Sacramento weather so uncomfortably warm, but we are moving into autumn in Northern California, and that means new pest control challenges. While so many pests are thriving outside this summer, as the weather begins to cool, these pesky animals will be looking for a cozy winter getaway – in your home or business. Some of the most common pests can be kept out of your hair with some easy tips and tricks.

Stink bugs, especially brown marmorated stink bugs, have been incredibly prolific in the Sacramento area as of late. While they’re likely to dissipate slightly as the weather cools, they are still likely to try and enter your domicile, where they can damage furniture, clothing, and your sense of comfort with their droppings and terrible odor. Keep all windows sealed from insect entry with window screens – the same goes for all doors that lead to the outside.

Ants are by far the most common pest in autumn and winter when they can set up hard-to-eliminate chemical trails into your house for warmth and food. Ants are not only unsightly guests, they can also ruin food supplies and cause pain and discomfort with their bites. Don’t leave standing water anywhere in your home and seal all food away to prevent ants. Cut branches and plants away from building exteriors and be sure to seal any cracks leading into your building or foundation.