With the shift from summer to fall comes many changes, from leaves to latte flavors. Unfortunately, not all seasonal changes are as festive. There are many heat-seeking bugs that, while comfortable outside all summer, will now try to sneak into your cozy home. To avoid an infestation and a call for pest control, keep an eye out for the following critters.

3 Fall Invaders to Watch Out For

1. Stinkbugs

Originally from Asia, these pesky insects have wide, flat bodies and release an unpleasant stench when crushed. Therefore, if you see a stink bug in your house, don’t rush to kill it—unless you want your home to reek. Try to trap any visible stinkbugs in a plastic bag or usher them outside until a professional pest control team arrives. You may also find these insects on the outside of your home, as they flock to surfaces warmed by the sun.

2. Boxelder Bugs

These red and black insects are named after the trees they hatch on, but they can easily travel into your home if a boxelder tree thrives somewhere in your neighborhood. They like to rest in large groups on the sunny sides of buildings, but you may also find them hiding under siding slats or window frames. If you find a box elder bug in your home, vacuum it instead of crushing it. Otherwise, you will release its natural scent, attracting more, as well as a red dye that is hard to remove from carpeting and upholstery.

3. Ladybugs

While they may be fun to encounter outside, ladybugs can quickly become a nuisance if they overtake your home. You might first notice them in your vegetable garden, as they like to eat aphids—sap-eating insects that can damage your plantings. However, the pheromones they leave behind will attract them to your property year after year, and they might try to enter your home as the weather gets cooler. Although ladybugs don’t bite or sting, you’ll still want to enlist the help of a pest control professional to get rid of an infestation.

If you encounter any of these fall invaders in the coming weeks and months, turn to Southeast Termite & Pest Control of Knox County, TN. They have over half a century of experience ridding properties of unwanted pests, and they’ll be happy to make your home a cozy place this fall. For more information on their services call, (865) 925-3700 or visit the website.