Which Pests Overwinter in Chesterton Homes During the Indiana Winter?

Nestled amongst the Indiana Dunes on Lake Michigan's shore, Chesterton is known for a wide range of wildlife and landscapes. When temperatures start to drop, homeowners may notice insects gathering around doors and windows, and something gathering in groups on siding. The change you are seeing is the search for shelter and sometimes reliable food for winter. Mosquito Squad Plus of Northwest Indiana can help you manage these seasonal intruders with Chesterton, IN pest control services.

Why Do Pests Gather Indoors in Winter?

Shifting temperatures lead to changes in pest behavior as they prepare to survive cold fall and colder winter. Pests will start seeking environments to shelter from the cold and for access to reliable food sources. Some insects enter a dormant state, so preparing in the fall before they settle in can help limit numbers. Others, like spiders, are driven more by where they can find a reliable food source.

They remain inactive as long as temperatures remain cold, but a stretch of mild days or afternoon sun may draw them into living spaces even though they haven't recently entered from outdoors. Closing access points early is important, and exterior-focused pest management can complement household maintenance.

Stink Bugs

Brown marmorated stink bugs often congregate on sunny walls before entering through gaps near windows, vents, and siding. Their unpleasant odor makes crushing them a poor choice. Using a vacuum to pick them up and find indoors is a better option. Check weatherstripping, screens, and around utility lines for damage that could be repaired.

Asian Lady Beetles

A type of ladybug, Asian lady beetles come in oranges, reds, and yellows. They tend to move in larger numbers compared to Ladybugs and seek sun-warmed surfaces. During fall, they can be found on south-facing walls and around windows and doors to catch remaining heat. They may attempt to shelter inside, moving through gaps around doors and windows and sheltering there. Because they can release staining fluid when disturbed, vacuuming is preferable to crushing them.

Elm Seed Bugs

Elm seed bugs are an invasive insect, relatively new to the United States. As their name suggests, they feed primarily on elm tree seeds, and as temperatures cool off, they will seek shelter to ride out the winter. They may attempt entry to garages, cracks in the foundation, even gaps behind drywall. smaller than boxelder bugs and may be mistaken for them at first glance. Keeping garage door seals snug and clearing accumulated elm seeds from nearby surfaces may reduce attractions.

Spiders in Garages and Basements

Spiders don't all overwinter like beetles, but will seek shelter in basements, garages, attics, and other places where temperatures are steadier and prey is available. Reducing clutter and cleaning around stored items regularly may help reduce their numbers. Spiders go where their prey is, so limiting other insect activity can help with spider control.

Get Help With Overwintering Pests in Chesterton

IF you are seeing multiple pests inside throughout the winter, it may point to gaps being used as entry points or pests already tucked away!. Mosquito Squad Plus of Northwest Indiana can help Chesterton homeowners build the right pest control plan for your home. Keep up with routine fall maintenance to prepare for overwintering pest activity. Call (219) 402-3344 for a free quote or contact the local team to plan for the next wave of seasonal activity.