Effective Strategies for Getting Rid of Army Worms Indoors

Army worms are a particular nuisance to homeowners, despite the lack of food sources inside the house. These pests can still find their way in, potentially causing worry and inconvenience. However, with the right methods, they can be safely and effectively removed from your living space.

How Army Worms Enter Your Home

Despite the apparent lack of food sources indoors, army worms can still find entry through tiny cracks, gaps, or even by hitching a ride through windows or doors. Adult army worms are larvae of the Mythimna immigrants and can emerge from outside, finding their way inside during warm weather when they seek shelter or outside temperature fluctuations.

Safe Removal Methods

Here are some practical and effective ways to get rid of army worms safely from inside your home:

Manually Collecting and Relocating

One of the simplest ways to deal with army worms is by manually collecting them. Use a bucket and gather the worms into it. Once you have collected all the visible army worms, relocate them outside. Unfortunately, this method may mean the worms will return to your yard. However, you can divert them toward a neighbor's property with a chicken coop, where they may be more welcome.

Natural Pesticide Solutions

Another safe and effective method to get rid of army worms is by using a natural pesticide. Mix water with a squirt of Dawn dish soap in the bucket. When the army worms come into contact with this solution, they will drown. This method is safe for the environment and your home.

Advanced Pest Control Solutions

For more serious infestations or if you prefer not to handle the pests yourself, consider the following advanced pest control solutions:

Chemical Solutions

There are specialized bug smoke bombs available that can kill arthropods and other insects in the house. When using these, ensure to follow the instructions carefully and leave the house for a specified period to allow the fumes to dissipate. This method can be more effective but requires careful handling and precautions.

Professional Assistance

For persistent or aggressive infestations, it may be wise to call in pest control professionals. They have the expertise and advanced tools to deal with army worms effectively. Ensure to choose a reputable service and ask about their methods and guarantees.

Preventative Measures

In addition to removing existing infestations, take steps to prevent army worms from entering your home in the first place. Seal any gaps or cracks, install mesh screens on windows and doors, and keep the area around your home free of debris and vegetation where these pests might nest.

Conclusion

Dealing with army worms in your home can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can effectively manage and remove them. Whether you opt for manual collection, natural pesticides, or advanced pest control solutions, the key is to act promptly and with safety in mind. By practicing good preventative measures, you can reduce the likelihood of future infestations and enjoy a pest-free living environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can army worms or their larvae survive inside a home without food?

While army worms are more commonly found outdoors, they can enter your home and survive for short periods without an immediate food source. However, if you can eliminate their access to food and remove the infestation promptly, they will be less likely to thrive inside your home.

Are all army worm species the same, or are there different varieties?

Army worms are the larvae of various species of moths, such as the Mythimna scribonia and Mythimna autumnalis. Different species may have slightly different behaviors, but the general methods for control and removal remain similar.

How can I prevent army worms from entering my home again?

To prevent future infestations, seal any gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Trim vegetation away from the foundation of your home, and ensure that screens on exterior windows and vents are in good condition. Regular inspection and maintenance can help keep your home pest-free.