By Jonathan Simkins
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23 Jul, 2023
What are occasional invaders and why do they enter your home? Britton Simkins notes that while many people in Florida are familiar with structural pests such as rodents, ants, cockroaches, and bed bugs, which infest and breed within buildings, there are also occasional invaders. These pests enter buildings on an infrequent basis, typically during specific months of the year, due to extreme weather conditions or accidental entry through small cracks and gaps in the building's structure. Occasional invaders are pests that invade buildings on an infrequent basis, usually during specific months of the year. They are not considered a major threat to humans, but their presence can be a nuisance. Examples of occasional invaders in Florida include millipedes, centipedes, silverfish, earwigs, crickets, and lady beetles, to name a few. Despite not being a significant threat, their presence should not be ignored, as it can indicate potential entry points for other pests. Occasional invaders typically enter buildings through small gaps or cracks in foundation walls, doorways, and windows, often attracted by lights and moisture. Once inside, they may feed on organic matter or seek shelter from the elements. In addition to being a warning sign for other pests, occasional invaders can also cause damage to property. For instance, silverfish and carpet beetles can damage fabrics and paper products, while millipedes and centipedes can stain walls and floors with their secretions. Therefore, it is important to take preventative measures to keep occasional invaders out of your building, such as sealing cracks and gaps in foundation walls, doors, and windows, and reducing moisture levels inside the building. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of an infestation by not only occasional invaders, but also other more harmful pests.