Invasive pests are more than just an annoyance—they can harm your home, pose health risks, and result in costly damage if not addressed quickly. In Freeburg, IL, a variety of invasive species are making their way into homes, often unnoticed until the problem is well-established. Knowing about these potential threats can help you keep your home safe.
Termites: The Silent Destroyers
One of the most damaging invasive pests in the region is the termite. These insects are especially dangerous because they feed on wood from the inside out, making their activity hard to spot until structural damage is already done. Termite colonies can compromise flooring, beams, and your furniture. If you notice discarded wings near windows or mud tubes along your foundation, you may already have an infestation.
Carpenter Ants and Their Costly Presence
Carpenter ants are another wood-damaging pest commonly found in Freeburg homes. While they do not eat through wood like termites, they will hollow it out to build their nests. Over time, this can weaken structures, particularly in damp or rotting wood around basements, attics, and exterior walls. Seeing large black ants indoors—especially at night—could indicate an infestation nearby.
Stink Bugs: The Seasonal Invasion
When the weather outside cools down, stink bugs are sure to start making their way into homes. Unfortunately, that often means your home. These shield-shaped insects squeeze through cracks around windows, doors, and vents. While they don’t cause structural damage, their foul odor and tendency to appear in large numbers make them an unpleasant indoor guest.
Rodents: Small Entry Points, Big Problems
Mice and rats are persistent pests that can invade through tiny openings. Once inside, they chew through wires, insulation, and even plumbing lines—causing both fire hazards and costly repairs. Rodents can spread disease and contaminate both your food and the surfaces throughout your home. In winter, infestations often spike as these pests seek shelter from the cold.
Spiders and Other Creepy Crawlers
Most of the spiders in your home are harmless, some invasive species like brown recluse, however, can cause health issues. These spiders tend to hide in dark, quiet places such as closets, attics, and crawl spaces. A bite from one can lead to painful skin irritation and potential medical issues. Keeping clutter to a minimum and sealing entry points are key prevention strategies.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
Many invasive pests enter homes through gaps in siding, foundation cracks, attic vents, or even under doors. Having regular inspections done as well as sealing entry points will lower your home’s risk. Keep food sealed, trash covered, and areas around your home free of excess moisture or wood debris—common attractants for pests.
Give American Termite & Pest Control a call today if you need pest control services to protect your home from invasive species.
