Oct 31, 2016, 13:16 PM by Fred Speer

The one pest most synonymous with Halloween is the spider. Spiders are typically more active in the fall, as they reach maturity during that season’s months, when moist weather and cooler temperatures are more conducive to web building.

Today is the holiday of holidays for those who enjoy all things creepy and crawly. Maybe that’s why Halloween is the Clark Man’s favorite holiday!

The one pest most synonymous with Halloween is the spider. Spiders are typically more active in the fall, as they reach maturity during that season’s months, when moist weather and cooler temperatures are more conducive to web building.

And while spiders are beneficial to our environment – because they hunt and eat other less desirable insects, and generally are not a threat to people – they still rank quite high on most people’s list of “things that creep me out.” 

While certain species of arachnids – black widows and scorpions – can present a threat to people who unknowingly cross their paths, spiders mainly hang out in locations not frequently visited by humans.

To lower the “creep” factor with spiders, the Clark Man suggests the following spider prevention tips:

• Seal cracks and crevices around doors and windows, on the foundation, and around any access holes for electrical conduits or plumbing
• Remove clutter in closets, pantries, and storage areas inside your home
• If you leave clothing and shoes outside in the garage or porch, make sure to shake them well before putting them on
• Apparel and equipment that’s only occasionally worn or used (garden gloves, boots, athletic shoes, baseball mitts, camping gear, sleeping bags, etc.) should be stored in tightly closed containers, especially when stored in the garage or other non-illuminated areas
• When removing boxes and other items from the garage or storage areas, wear a pair of heavy gloves in case you encounter a black widow spider nesting among the items

Spiders are not, however, the only pest homeowners should be wary of during the Halloween season. Rodents are a common fall trick-or-treater, and can fit through an opening the size of a quarter – making it easy for them to gain access into homes. Once inside, rodents can spread disease by contaminating food, and they can increase the risk for electrical fires by gnawing through wires.

As you unpack your Halloween decorations, look for signs of an infestation such as gnaw marks and rodent droppings. And once you start to pack away the ghoulish decorations, make sure they are stored in a plastic box with a sealed lid to prevent curious rodents from setting up shop.  

The final Halloween pest to be on the watch for are bats. These nocturnal mammals roost in dark areas of buildings, such as attics, belfries, and under fascia boards, and in other sheltered areas like caves.

Bats are frequent carriers of rabies, and homeowners should screen attic vents and chimney openings and install sweeps on doors to keep bats out of the home.

If you have questions on creepy, crawly pests trying to “trick” their way inside your home, call or text (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or drop me an email at clarkcares@clarkpest.com.