Fall Pests in Lake Charles? Here's What to Do

Fall Pests in Lake Charles? Here’s What to Do

As the crisp autumn air settles over Lake Charles, many of us look forward to cooler temperatures and cozy evenings. Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones seeking shelter from the changing weather. As fall arrives, a variety of pests begin their search for a warm place to spend the winter, and your home is often their top choice.

Understanding which pests are common “fall invaders” is the first step toward keeping your home secure. This guide will walk you through the typical culprits in the Lake Charles area, explain why they want to get inside, and provide practical tips to prevent an infestation. If these critters have already made their way in, don’t worry—we’ll also cover how professional help can restore your peace of mind.

Why Pests Invade Homes in the Fall

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, pests instinctively look for three things: food, water, and shelter. Your home provides an ideal environment, offering a steady supply of all three. These fall invaders aren’t necessarily looking to cause trouble, but their presence can lead to property damage, contaminated food, and even health concerns for your family.

Common Fall Invaders in Lake Charles

While Louisiana is home to a wide variety of insects and rodents, a few specific pests are notorious for trying to move in during the autumn months.

Rodents (Rats and Mice)

Perhaps the most unwelcome of all fall guests, rodents like the roof rat and house mouse are experts at finding ways into your home. They can squeeze through incredibly small openings—a mouse needs only a dime-sized hole, and a rat can fit through a space the size of a quarter.

Risks: Rodents are more than just a nuisance. They can chew through electrical wiring, which creates a serious fire hazard. They also contaminate food and surfaces with their droppings and urine, potentially spreading diseases like salmonellosis and hantavirus.
Signs of Infestation: Look for small, dark droppings in pantries or under sinks, gnaw marks on food packaging or baseboards, and scratching or scurrying sounds in your walls or attic, especially at night.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are resilient pests that thrive year-round, but they become more determined to enter homes in the fall to escape the cold. Species like the American cockroach and the German cockroach are common in our area. They are drawn to moisture and can often be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Risks: Cockroaches are known to carry bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. Their shed skins and droppings can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks, particularly in children.
Signs of Infestation: An oily, musty odor is a classic sign. You might also find their droppings, which resemble black pepper or coffee grounds, or spot them scurrying for cover when you turn on a light.

Spiders

While most spiders are harmless and even beneficial for controlling other insects, finding them inside your home is rarely a pleasant experience. As their food sources move indoors for the fall, spiders follow. Species like the brown recluse and black widow, both found in Louisiana, are venomous and require professional handling.

Risks: A bite from a venomous spider can cause serious health issues and requires immediate medical attention. Even non-venomous spider bites can be painful and may lead to secondary infections.
Signs of Infestation: The most obvious sign is an increase in spider webs, particularly in quiet, undisturbed areas like corners, basements, and attics.

Stink Bugs

The brown marmorated stink bug is a well-known fall invader. These shield-shaped insects gather on the sunny sides of buildings in the afternoon and slip inside through cracks and crevices. They don’t bite or cause structural damage, but they can become a major annoyance.

Risks: Their primary defense mechanism is releasing a pungent, unpleasant odor when they are crushed or feel threatened. Large numbers of them can be unsettling.
Signs of Infestation: You’ll likely see the bugs themselves crawling on walls, curtains, and furniture.

How to Prevent a Fall Pest Invasion

Prevention is always the best strategy. Taking proactive steps can make your home much less attractive to pests looking for a winter hideout.

Seal Entry Points: Carefully inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks, gaps, or holes. Use caulk to seal openings around windows, pipes, and foundation. Install door sweeps under exterior doors and repair any damaged window screens.
Maintain Your Yard: Keep your yard tidy by trimming shrubs and trees away from the house. Rake leaves and remove woodpiles or other debris that could provide shelter for pests near your foundation.
Manage Moisture: Ensure your gutters are clean and directing water away from your home. Fix any leaky faucets or pipes, as excess moisture is a major attractant for pests like cockroaches.
Store Food Properly: Keep food, including pet food, in airtight containers. Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.

Your Partner in Pest Protection

Even with the best preventative measures, pests can sometimes find their way inside. If you suspect you have a fall pest problem, trying to handle it on your own can be ineffective and, in some cases, unsafe.

At J&J Exterminating, we have been protecting families and businesses in Louisiana for over 65 years. As the state’s largest independently-owned pest control company, we understand the specific challenges Lake Charles residents face each season. Our trained technicians use proven methods to identify, eliminate, and prevent pest infestations, ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable space for your family.

Don’t let uninvited guests ruin your autumn. Contact J&J Exterminating today for a free estimate and let us shield what’s near and dear to you.