Fall spider and ant activity rises in Northern Virginia

My Pest Pros says September and October bring more spider and ant calls across Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C., but the root cause is often misunderstood. The company says the wrong fix can leave homeowners dealing with the same infestation again.

Why it matters: - Seasonal spider and ant complaints can keep returning when homeowners treat the visible problem instead of the source. - My Pest Pros says the right approach can improve long-term control and reduce repeat treatments through winter.

What happened: - My Pest Pros said September and October are the busiest months for two common service calls: spiders in basements and ants on kitchen counters. - The company said the pattern is showing up across Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. - Brett Lieberman, founder of My Pest Pros, said many homeowners apply the wrong treatment and then see the same issue again. - Homeowners can schedule an inspection by calling 703-665-4455 or visiting More information.

The details: - The Burke Museum notes that spiders are not drawn to warmth. - The museum says spiders people notice in early fall are often moving more because mating season peaks. - Michigan State University Extension says odorous house ants, the small dark ants behind many Northern Virginia kitchen complaints, commonly move into homes later in the season when outdoor food sources become scarce. - Lieberman said perimeter spraying often fails when the real issue is indoors. - Lieberman also said spraying a visible ant trail is ineffective when the nest is elsewhere. - My Pest Pros recommends sealing gaps at door sweeps, window frames and utility openings. - The company also recommends reducing bright exterior lighting near doors, which attracts the insects spiders feed on. - Other steps include pulling mulch, stone and firewood away from the foundation and trimming shrubs off the siding. - My Pest Pros says homeowners should store sweets and pet food in sealed containers. - The company recommends wiping ant trails with soapy water instead of using an aerosol spray.

Between the lines: - The fall uptick is not just about more pests entering homes. - For spiders, the issue may be increased visibility rather than a new invasion. - For ants, the problem is more likely tied to outdoor food scarcity and indoor nesting behavior. - Lieberman framed lasting control as a source-control problem, not a surface-spray problem.

What's next: - My Pest Pros is directing homeowners with spider or ant activity to request an inspection or treatment. - The company said people can call 703-665-4455 or visit the company's announcement to schedule service. - My Pest Pros, a locally owned pest control company, says it serves homeowners and businesses throughout Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. - The company says its services include general pest control, termite treatments, rodent services and mosquito services.