What This Blog Will Cover
- Why pests become more active around Thanksgiving in Virginia and North Carolina
- Common pests homeowners may see in November
- Smart food storage tips to keep pests out of your kitchen and pantry
- How to maintain a clean kitchen and manage moisture to reduce pest attraction
- Trash management strategies to prevent pests from invading your home
- Steps to take if pests are already in your house or you want help preventing infestations
Why Pests Are More Active Around Thanksgiving in Virginia and North Carolina
Fall is a transitional season for pests. While the cooler temperatures are a relief for us, they signal a shift for rodents and insects. Many pests begin moving indoors in November, seeking warmth and shelter before winter arrives.
Food sources outdoors also begin to disappear as leaves fall and the growing season comes to an end. Nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects become scarce, prompting pests to seek easy meals inside homes. If your kitchen is full of holiday treats, it can become a magnet for rodents, ants, and other pests.
Common Pests Around Thanksgiving
Some of the most common pests Virginia and North Carolina homeowners may encounter in November include:
- Rodents: Searching for warmth and food, mice and rats can build nests in hidden areas, contaminate food, and cause structural damage.
- Cockroaches: These resilient pests are drawn to warmth and moisture, spreading illness and proving difficult to eliminate.
- Ants: Carpenter ants and other species continue foraging indoors and may establish colonies inside if they find a suitable food source.
- Pantry pests: Often introduced via prepackaged foods, pantry pests contaminate grains, flour, cereal, and other stored items.
How to Keep Pests Out This Thanksgiving
Properly Store Food and Ingredients
Keeping pests out starts with making food inaccessible:
- Inspect groceries for damaged packaging before buying to avoid bringing pests home.
- Transfer paper or cardboard-packaged foods into airtight, hard-sided containers.
- Clean out your pantry and cupboards regularly, removing expired items and wiping up spills.
- Avoid leaving food out on counters, and store pet food only at meal times.
Keep Your Kitchen Clean
Even small crumbs or spills can attract pests. Protect your home by:
- Washing dishes immediately after use.
- Wiping counters and prep areas after every meal.
- Sweeping or vacuuming floors daily.
- Rinsing sinks to remove food particles.
Address Moisture Issues
Pests need water to survive. Reduce their access by:
- Repairing leaky faucets and pipes promptly.
- Fixing water-damaged wood or areas of your home.
- Wiping out sinks after use and lowering indoor humidity.
- Emptying pet water dishes at night.
Manage Your Trash
Trash is a major attractant for pests:
- Take out garbage regularly, especially during the holiday season.
- Ensure outdoor trash bins have tight-fitting lids.
- Keep bins at least 20 feet away from your home whenever possible.
What to Do If Pests Still Show Up
Even the best-prepared kitchen can sometimes attract pests. That’s why professional pest control is the wise choice.
At Four Seasons Pest Control, we provide year-round pest protection for homes in Virginia and North Carolina, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. With over 25 years of experience, our local experts know how to effectively prevent and eliminate pests, so you can focus on enjoying your Thanksgiving without worry.
Don’t let pests crash your holiday. Contact Four Seasons Pest Control today to schedule your inspection and keep your home and your Thanksgiving meal pest-free.
