Released October 29, 2009
MANHATTAN, Kan. – This fall’s frosty nip in the air has insects looking for warm places to hide – places such as Midwesterners’ homes.
These insects include crickets, boxelder bugs, millipedes, and especially the multicolored Asian lady beetle, said Kansas State University Research and Extension entomologist Jeff Whitworth. They try to invade homes at this time of year to find shelter to survive the winter. They pose no threat to human health or property, but when significant numbers build up, they can be a serious nuisance.
Asian lady beetles
Despite their nuisance factor as they aggregate for overwintering, multicolored Asian lady beetles are considered “beneficial” insects during the growing season, Whitworth said. The USDA first imported the beetles into the United States during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s to help with aphid control.
They are efficient aphid predators, the entomologist said, but since they have biting and chewing mouthparts, they can deliver an irritating bite to people. If enough beetles congregate inside a home, they also can cause a small odor problem, may stain certain surfaces when smashed, and can occasionally cause an allergic reaction is some people.
If there are significant numbers of beetles in an area this fall, that probably means aphids were plentiful in nearby crops and other plants in past summer, he said. The beetles are primarily attracted to the south- and west-facing sides of structures because those walls radiate and reflect the most heat.
“The best way to protect your dwelling from these pests is to limit access by eliminating or at least reducing the points of entry,” Whitworth said. “Ensure that all screens are tight-fitting and intact. Make sure the caulk around window and door frames is in good condition. Remove excess foliage and mulch from around the foundation.”
When pests are in the home
Insecticides can be effective if homeowners treat the exterior foundation and some of the area around the outside of the building, he said. This often reduces the number of potential household invaders.
Once the pests are inside, sometimes hand-picking or vacuuming is enough to eliminate the problem. Glue boards can be helpful in trapping the insects. With significant numbers, however, an insecticide application inside the home may be required. Aerosol sprays may give a quick knock down but have short lasting effects. Insecticides with longer lasting effects often work quite well and can be sprayed along baseboards and in cracks, crevices, and other hiding places.
“Always check the pesticide label to make sure the product you select is effective against the target pest and has no unwanted side effects, such as stains or unsightly residues,” the entomologist said.
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http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/news/story/briefs_102909.aspx
Contact: Elaine Edwards, elainee@ksu.edu
