BLOG

Houston’s Common Fall Pests & How to Stop Them

As the intense Houston summer heat gives way to cooler, more pleasant autumn weather, people aren’t the only ones looking for a comfortable place to settle in. Many common pests use the changing season as a cue to find shelter from the approaching winter, and your home is often their top destination. Understanding which pests are most active during the fall can help you protect your property from unwanted invaders.

This guide will walk you through the most common fall pests in the greater Houston area. We’ll cover what attracts them to your home and provide practical tips to keep them out. With a little proactive effort, you can ensure your home remains a pest-free sanctuary throughout the season.

Why Do Pests Invade Houston Homes in the Fall?

As temperatures drop, pests that were thriving outdoors during the summer start searching for three things: food, water, and shelter. Your home provides all of these in abundance. Cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows, and openings for utility lines become easy entry points for insects and rodents looking to escape the cold. The warmth and resources inside your home make it an ideal place for them to nest and reproduce, often leading to a full-blown infestation before you even realize they’re there.

Common Fall Pests in the Greater Houston Area

Since 1968, Cypress Creek Pest Control has helped protect over 12,000 homes and businesses in Houston. Based on our experience, these are the pests you’re most likely to encounter during the fall months.

Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Cooler weather is the primary driver for rodents seeking shelter. Mice and rats can squeeze through incredibly small openings—a mouse needs only a dime-sized hole, and a rat just a quarter-sized one. Once inside, they can cause significant damage by gnawing on wires, insulation, and drywall. They also pose a health risk by contaminating food and spreading diseases.

How to Prevent a Rodent Infestation:

• Seal any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior, including around pipes and vents.
• Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs and spills immediately.
• Keep your yard tidy and store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house.

Roaches

Cockroaches, especially the German cockroach, are a year-round problem in Houston, but they become more aggressive about moving indoors in the fall. They are drawn to moisture and food sources, often hiding in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Roaches can trigger allergies and asthma and are known to carry bacteria that can contaminate your home.

How to Prevent a Roach Infestation:

• Fix leaky pipes and faucets to reduce moisture.
• Keep kitchen counters clean and store food in sealed containers.
• Regularly empty trash cans and keep the area around them clean.
• Seal gaps around sinks, drains, and electrical outlets where roaches can enter.

Spiders

While most common house spiders are harmless, finding them in your home can be unsettling. In the fall, spiders often move indoors following their prey—other insects. You’ll typically find them in quiet, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, and closets. Their presence can be an indicator of a larger insect problem.

How to Prevent a Spider Infestation:

• Regularly dust and vacuum corners, ceilings, and other potential web-building spots.
• Seal cracks in your foundation and around windows and doors.
• Install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.

Ants

Ants are persistent pests that can invade your home at any time, but they often march indoors in search of food and water when outside sources become scarce in the fall. They can enter through the smallest of cracks and leave a pheromone trail for others to follow, quickly leading to a major infestation.

How to Prevent an Ant Infestation:

• Keep your kitchen and dining areas free of crumbs and food residue.
• Seal entry points around windows, doors, and your home’s foundation.
• Trim back trees and shrubs that touch your house, as ants use them as bridges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Pests

Why am I seeing more pests in the fall even though it’s getting colder?

As temperatures drop, pests that were active outdoors during the summer begin to search for warm places to survive the winter. Your home offers the perfect combination of warmth, moisture, and food, making it an attractive shelter.

Are fall pests dangerous?

Some fall pests can be. Rodents and cockroaches can spread diseases and contaminate food supplies. Rodents can also cause structural damage by chewing on electrical wires, which creates a fire hazard. While most common spiders are not dangerous, their presence indicates that other insects are getting into your home.

Can I handle a fall pest infestation on my own?

While DIY methods can sometimes manage a small number of pests, a widespread infestation requires professional help. Pest control experts have the knowledge, experience, and professional-grade equipment to correctly identify the pest, locate the source of the infestation, and apply the most effective treatment safely.

Keep Your Houston Home Pest-Free This Fall

Protecting your home from fall pests requires a proactive approach. By sealing entry points, eliminating food and water sources, and keeping your property clean, you can make your home less inviting to unwanted guests. However, even with the best preventive measures, pests can still find a way inside.

If you’re facing a pest problem, don’t wait for it to get out of control. Cypress Creek Pest Control has been providing reliable, quality service to the greater Houston area since 1968. Our expert technicians can tailor a solution to your specific needs and ensure your home stays healthy and pest-free. Contact us today for a free estimate and enjoy peace of mind this fall.