Fall Rodent and Pest Surge: How Cartwright Termite & Pest Control Keeps San Diego and Palm Desert Homes Protected

As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, fall often brings more than just cooler weather and colorful leaves—it also brings a surge in unwanted pests. While many people associate insects and rodents with summer, fall is actually one of the most active seasons for infestations in Southern California. Rodents, stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and even termites become increasingly active as they seek shelter, warmth, and food.  Learn more about the fall rodent and pest surge.

At Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc., we understand how quickly these seasonal pests can invade your home or business. With over 50 years of trusted experience serving San Diego and Palm Desert, our team provides expert inspection, prevention, and treatment solutions to keep your property pest-free year-round.

 

Why Pest Activity Increases in Fall

As the weather cools, pests begin searching for warm, protected environments to survive the winter months. Homes, garages, attics, and crawl spaces provide the perfect conditions—offering food, moisture, and safety from the elements.

In Southern California, fall’s mild but cooler nights often trigger migration and nesting behaviors among many common pests, including:

• Rodents (mice and rats): These clever pests can enter through openings as small as a dime. Once inside, they build nests in insulation, walls, or attics—chewing through wires and contaminating food in the process.
• Stink bugs and boxelder bugs: These insects aren’t dangerous, but they can quickly become a nuisance as they gather by the hundreds on warm exterior walls and try to slip indoors.
• Termites: Unlike other pests, termites do not take the winter off. In fact, fall is a prime time for termite colonies to expand, as swarmers look for new locations to establish secondary colonies.

Without proper protection, a small seasonal infestation can quickly turn into a major headache.

Rodent Problems Rise as Temperatures Fall | Fall Rodent and Pest Surge

Rodents are especially problematic in fall and winter. In both San Diego’s coastal neighborhoods and Palm Desert’s desert communities, cooler nights push rats and mice indoors. Once they find an entry point—often through gaps in doors, vents, or rooflines—they breed rapidly.

Besides property damage, rodents pose serious health risks by spreading diseases such as hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis. They can also trigger allergies and contaminate air ducts.

Cartwright’s rodent control specialists use comprehensive exclusion and trapping methods, ensuring rodents are not only removed but also prevented from returning. Our team identifies entry points, seals them professionally, and offers follow-up monitoring for long-term protection.

Boxelder and Stink Bugs: Seasonal Invaders

If you’ve noticed clusters of dark bugs gathering on sunny walls or window screens during fall, you’re likely dealing with boxelder bugs or stink bugs. These pests are known for squeezing into homes through cracks, siding gaps, and vents.

Though harmless, their large numbers and unpleasant odor when crushed make them difficult to manage without professional help. Cartwright Termite & Pest Control provides targeted exterior treatments and entry-point sealing to stop these insects before they invade your home.

Termites Do Not Take a Break

Unlike many insects, termites remain active throughout the year in Southern California’s mild climate. During fall, subterranean termites may continue to forage for food and expand colonies underground, while drywood termites can establish new infestations in attics, eaves, and structural wood.

At Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, we specialize in advanced termite detection and treatment. Our team uses state-of-the-art inspection tools to locate colonies early and apply the most effective solutions—whether it’s localized treatments, soil barriers, or full-structure fumigation. Protecting your property’s foundation and structure from termite damage is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make.

Why Choose Cartwright Termite & Pest Control

For decades, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc. has been a trusted name across San Diego and the Coachella Valley. We combine local expertise, proven methods, and personalized service to handle any pest challenge—large or small.

• Family-owned and locally operated for over 50 years
• Licensed, experienced technicians trained in the latest pest control techniques
• Environmentally responsible treatments that are safe for families and pets
• Comprehensive protection plans for both residential and commercial properties

Protect Your Home This Fall | Fall Rodent and Pest Surge

Do not wait until pests move in. Whether you are seeing the first signs of rodents, seasonal bugs, or suspect termite activity, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control is ready to help. Our team provides fast, reliable service designed to safeguard your property through every season.

Call today to schedule an inspection in San Diego or Palm Desert and let our experts help you stay pest-free all fall and winter long.  San Diego (619) 442-9613 Palm Desert (760) 346-6767

Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc. – Protecting Homes and Businesses Across Southern California Since 1967.

If you want a job done right, call Cartwright.