One Pest You're Likely To See This Fall In New Mexico

As the temperatures start to cool down in our area and fall moves in, it's time for you to prepare for the pests that are likely to show up on your property and get into your home. According to the National Pest Management Association's Bug Barometer, residents in New Mexico and throughout South Central U.S. should expect increased pest activity as we move through fall and into the winter months. If you're not aware, the Bug Barometer is a bi-annual forecast that examines seasonal weather patterns to predict pest activity across the country. The current forecast calls for increased cockroach entry in our area and provides insights into what will likely drive the problem. We're going to use this fact sheet as a starting point to talk about cockroaches.

Why roaches are a problem for New Mexico residents in the fall

It is common for cockroaches to start entering New Mexico homes when temperatures drop. Cockroaches are cold-blooded animals, which means that they rely on environmental temperatures to stay warm. However, they can slow down outdoors and go into a state of dormancy instead of finding their way indoors.

What makes this year a bit unique is that drier-than-normal conditions could drive these pests in—and they may stay and grow indoor populations. In warm interiors, they can stay active through the winter. This is bad, as cockroaches reproduce quickly.

Common cockroach species in New Mexico

We have several cockroaches in our region of the country. Here are the three property owners see most often.

• German cockroaches
  These are light brown, seed-shaped roaches with two dark lines on the back. While they can fly, they don't do it often. German roaches are incredibly persistent pests that aren't likely to leave once they get into a home.
• American cockroaches
  These are big, reddish-brown cockroaches with yellow on the back between the head and wings. They may take to the air when conditions are hot and humid. You'll find these roaches in humid indoor hiding places.
• Oriental cockroaches
  These are dark and shiny cockroaches with underdeveloped wings or wing pads. They are the dirtiest of the three cockroach species listed here and are drawn to damp and unsanitary habitats, such as sewers.

How to prevent cockroach infestations this fall

You can take steps right now to keep cockroaches out when they start looking for warm or humid environments. Here are some suggestions.

• Keep your home clean to reduce food sources and smells that attract roaches.
• Remove trash.
• Avoid leaving dirty dishes stacked next to the sink, particularly overnight.
• Seal or protect all entry points.
• Reduce moisture in and around your home.
• Install a dehumidifier in your home if needed.
• Store pantry and kitchen food in sealed containers.
• Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Steps like these can deter cockroaches from entering your home and wanting to stay.

If you're diligent right now and you don't mind a bit of hard work, you may be able to prevent cockroach problems this fall and winter. If it’s too late or you’d like some help protecting your home and family, remember the Greenway Pest Solutions service team is available.

What does fall home pest control look like?

Our year-round home pest control service, available in Albuquerque, Paradise Hills, Sunland Park, and throughout our New Mexico service area, includes an initial inspection and regular pest treatments every quarter. During each visit, we’ll treat the exterior of the house and address pest problems indoors if they’ve popped up. We’ll also de-web eaves, bushes, playsets, and other outdoor areas, check on exterior rodent stations if they were installed, and treat ant mounds in the yard.

You don’t have to put up with cockroaches this fall or any time of year; contact Greenway Pest Solutions for industry-leading pest control services!