Occasional Invader Pest Solutions. 

"Occasional invaders" is the term used for a wide variety of insects and arthropods that enter homes and businesses seasonally — not to establish breeding populations indoors, but to seek shelter, moisture, or warmth. In West Virginia, the list of occasional invaders is long, given the state's diverse ecosystems and seasonal climate extremes.

COMMON OCCASIONAL INVADERS IN WV

Stink Bugs (Brown Marmorated): One of the most complained-about occasional invaders in WV. Stink bugs aggregate in large numbers on south-facing walls in fall and push into wall voids and living spaces. They do not breed indoors, bite, or cause structural damage — but release a distinctive odor when disturbed or crushed.

Boxelder Bugs: Red and black bugs that aggregate on warm exterior walls in fall and enter through the same gaps as cluster flies and stink bugs.

Silverfish: Moisture-dependent insects found in basements, crawlspaces, and bathrooms. They feed on starch — book bindings, paper, cardboard, and wallpaper paste — and indicate a moisture problem more than a pest problem.

Centipedes: House centipedes are fast-moving predators that follow prey (other insects and spiders) indoors. Their presence indicates other pest activity inside the home.

Springtails: Tiny, jumping insects that infest very damp areas — consistently wet crawlspaces, over-watered potted plants, and damp basements. Almost always a moisture problem indicator.

Ground Beetles: Various species enter homes through ground-level gaps, particularly in fall and after rainfall. Generally harmless and short-lived indoors.

Earwigs: Seek moisture and dark harborage. Common in basements, under rugs, and in damp crawlspaces in summer.

GENERAL PREVENTION TIPS FOR ALL OCCASIONAL INVADERS

1. Seal the exterior envelope: caulk gaps around windows, doors, utility penetrations, and at the sill plate. This is the single most effective long-term prevention measure.
2. Address moisture issues: crawlspace moisture, leaking gutters, poor drainage, and condensation create the conditions most occasional invaders require.
3. Reduce exterior lighting or switch to yellow-spectrum bulbs — bright white lights attract many flying invaders.
4. Keep the perimeter of the home clear of debris, mulch, and vegetation that retains moisture.
5. Screen foundation vents and replace damaged door sweeps.
6. Reduce interior clutter in basements and storage areas — it provides harborage for silverfish, earwigs, and centipedes.

HOW WE TREAT OCCASIONAL INVADERS

Because most occasional invaders enter from the outside, Pest Control WV's approach emphasizes exterior perimeter treatments and structural exclusion. A quarterly pest control plan provides year-round residual barrier protection against all common occasional invaders, with interior follow-up treatments as needed. Our 365 Guarantee ensures we return between scheduled services at no charge if invaders persist.