Black Rat

The black rat, also known as the roof rat, is a small, agile rodent that often seeks shelter indoors as temperatures drop. In November, these rats look for warm places to nest and find food, making homes, attics, and garages attractive. They are excellent climbers and can enter through small openings. Their presence is often noticed by droppings, gnaw marks, and scratching noises in walls or ceilings. Black rats can contaminate food and spread diseases, making them a significant concern during colder months.

House Mouse: House mice are small rodents that become more active indoors as the weather gets colder. In November, they search for warmth and food, often entering homes through tiny cracks or gaps. They reproduce quickly, so a small problem can become a large infestation. House mice leave behind droppings, chew on wires and insulation, and can carry diseases. Their activity increases in the fall as outdoor food sources become scarce.

German Cockroach: German cockroaches are small, light brown insects that thrive in warm, humid environments, especially kitchens and bathrooms. As outdoor temperatures drop in November, they move indoors to find warmth and food. They hide in cracks, behind appliances, and inside cabinets. German cockroaches multiply rapidly and can contaminate food, trigger allergies, and spread bacteria. Their presence is often detected by droppings, egg cases, and a musty odor.

Cluster Fly: Cluster flies are larger than houseflies and are known for gathering in large numbers inside homes during the fall. In November, they seek out warm places to overwinter, often entering attics, wall voids, and unused rooms. They are sluggish and tend to cluster around windows on sunny days. While they do not breed indoors or cause damage, their presence can be a nuisance, especially when they emerge in large numbers during warm spells.

Boxelder Bug: Boxelder bugs are black insects with red or orange markings. In November, they look for sheltered spots to spend the winter, often entering homes through cracks around windows, doors, and siding. They are not harmful to people or property but can become a nuisance when they gather in large numbers indoors. Boxelder bugs are attracted to the warmth of buildings and may be seen on sunny exterior walls before moving inside.

Western Conifer Seed Bug: This bug is a brown, leaf-shaped insect that feeds on the seeds of pine and other conifer trees. As temperatures drop in November, they seek shelter indoors to overwinter. They often enter homes through gaps in windows, doors, or siding. While they do not cause damage or bite, their presence can be bothersome, and they may emit a pungent odor if disturbed or crushed.

Silverfish: Silverfish are small, silvery insects that thrive in damp, cool areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. In November, as outdoor conditions become less favorable, they move indoors in search of moisture and food sources such as paper, glue, and fabrics. Silverfish are nocturnal and can go unnoticed for long periods. They do not bite or spread disease but can damage books, wallpaper, and clothing by feeding on starchy materials.