Creepy Crawlies of Halloween

Fall is here! While it’s fun to put out spooky decorations, such as fake spiders, rats, bats, and snakes, it’s not as fun to see these creatures living inside your home. Here are some tips to keep your Halloween pest-free.

Spiders

Possibly the creepiest of crawlies, spiders are a common pest which, if left untreated, can infest quickly. Spiders make webs in door and window frames to catch their prey. Although most spiders in the United States are not dangerous, homeowners in Missouri should be aware of two venomous spiders: the brown recluse and the black widow. Homeowners can prevent spiders in the home by keeping garages, attics, and basements clean and clutter-free. Be sure to wear gloves when moving items that haven’t been moved in some time, like Halloween decorations.

Rats

Seeing a rat scurry by is enough to give anyone a fright! Primarily nocturnal, these small, furry pests can be found nesting in a variety of places, such as garbage piles or undisturbed areas of the house. Rats can squeeze through openings the size of a quarter, making it easy for them to come inside and spread diseases and/or cause electrical problems by chewing on wires. Before bringing decorations inside, be sure to check for signs of rodents, such as gnaw marks or droppings.

Bats

Bats are another pest that is associated with Halloween. Although these small, nocturnal animals won’t turn you into a vampire, they can carry rabies, which is often fatal if not treated. Bats can roost in areas that are similar to caves, such as dark areas of the home, like attics, belfries, and under fascia boards. Homeowners should screen attic vents and openings to chimneys to keep pests out. 

Snakes

Snakes can give you a fright during the day or at night. Both venomous and non-venomous snakes can be found in places like the garage, the basement, or under a deck. Home owners can prevent snakes by removing their food source and hiding places, like dark cracks, crevices, and holes. 

Call Vogelsang Pest Management to make sure you don’t have any creepy crawlies around your house.