A Guide to What Could Be Lurking in That Leaf Pile
We’re a month and a half into autumn, so the falling leaves are beginning to pile high in everyone’s yard. As tempting as it may be to jump into one, have you ever considered what could be lurking in that leaf pile?
A leaf pile is like a mini ecosystem; it’s a cornucopia of twigs, acorns, pine needles, and insects that might make you second-guess ever jumping in one again. You’ll forget about decorating your front yard for Halloween when you discover what creepy crawlies lurk in the leaves. Even worse? Raking them together into one big scary pile!
A Real Cause for Concern
Jumping into a leaf pile is all fun and games until you consider the types of unseen creepy crawlies that may lie within. An overlay of leaves is an excellent hiding spot for insects seeking shelter, including ticks, earwigs, and ants; even rodents or snakes could be camouflaged within.
If you’re a nature lover and enjoy regular interactions with critters, you might not see this as a big deal—that doesn’t mean there aren’t risks. Ticks are especially active this time of year and love to hang out in leaf piles; they can transmit Lyme disease, Powassan virus, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. These illnesses are especially concerning for children, as they can cause long-term health complications if not treated properly.
Aside from insect concerns, people with allergies and asthma should be cautious. Damp leaf piles can trap airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores, and other particles. When you jump into a leaf pile, you risk coughing, sneezing, or even having an asthma flare-up.
Blood-Sucking Ticks
Black-legged ticks are native to Alabama and among the worst leaf pile dwellers. This blood-sucking parasite is a vector for numerous diseases. One bite is all it takes to become infected with Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Your pets could also be the victims of a leaf pile tick. Always keep your yard raked well, wear long clothing, and check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
Earwigs
Earwigs are not an insect you see often, but if you come into contact with one, you certainly won’t forget it. They are flat-bodied creatures with pinchers at the bottom of their abdomen. They prefer damp areas and feed on plant debris, making forgotten leaf piles their ideal ecosystem. They are not aggressive, but they will protect themselves if they’re provoked.
Ants
It might not be a shock that ants also follow leaf piles. Although ants are, in a sense, everywhere, you definitely don’t want to come into contact with them where they can see you, but you can’t see them. Red fire ant stings can be incredibly painful and they usually result in a raised welt that sticks around for a few days, and that’s only the worst of it if you aren’t allergic.
Ants migrate from their hilly homes to leaf piles as the weather changes for the warmth and sufficient food sources (everything they need to lay low in cold temperatures). They are also a food source for other insects, so where ants go, others might be tempted to follow.
Rodents & Snakes
At Vulcan Termite & Pest Control Inc., we handle insect and rodent infestations (we don’t care for snake problems, though; we let our friends at Birmingham Wildlife Control LLC or Critter Control of Birmingham take care of that).
The same reasons insects are drawn to leaf piles apply to rodents and snakes. A leaf pile provides the perfect combination of shelter, warmth, and a steady food supply to help them survive through the winter season. And unfortunately, Norway rats, who also love leaf piles, are a scrumptious meal to a snake.
Leaf Pile Jumpers—Beware!
In short, leaf pile jumpers should beware of the hidden risks they may cause. As long as you stay mindful of what could be lurking in that leaf pile, you can still enjoy the outdoor fun that the fall season has to offer!
Need further assistance to keep yard pests off your property this fall season? Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Inc. has a solution for every pest problem, big or small. Looking to schedule an appointment? Call us at (205)-663-4200 or contact us online today!
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