4 Most Common Winter Invaders

It's mid-December and winter is here!  Colder weather also brings with it changes in insect activity.  Generally bug populations don't grow during the winter months, they do take to invading your home in search of water and warmth.  Wintertime pest invasions can threaten your home and family.  For some people, contact with certain bugs can result in allergic reactions, or transmission of diseases.  And as we all know, some pests can even cause physical damage to our homes.  Today I will go over a few of the most common pest to help you know what to look for to protect your family and home.  

1.  Spiders

Many species of spiders, including house spiders and brown recluses will find their way to be permanent guest in your basement, attics, crawl spaces, and closets.  Bites from some of these spiders can cause serious reactions.  To decrease spider access to your home, keep all greenery trimmed away from your roof and exterior walls.  Remove access to hiding places by storing your clothes, shoes, and other loose items in airtight bins.

2.  Roaches

Drier winter weather leaves roaches scrambling to get indoors to find moisture.  Once roaches are able to get access to your home, it's only a matter of time before you have a full-on infestation to take care of.  Cockroach allergens cause a significant problems for many people.  In your kitchens they will chew their way through paper and plastics to gain access to your food.  Airtight containers are a great preventative measure for food storage.  Pay special attention to your sinks and appliances to eliminate any excess moisture.  Vacuuming regularly, keeping your countertops and floors clean, and clearing all clutter will go a long way to maintaining an environment that roaches are not fond of.

3.  Ant

Ants march into your home looking for moisture and food.  Giving them any leeway and they will take over your home before you realize it.  Regular pest control services to maintain an insect barrier is the best way to keep ants from invading your home.  

4.  Rodents

Rodents are definitely your greatest threat when it comes to winter pest activity.  Rodents are unsanitary and can cause real and expensive damage to your home.  Rodents come in through tiny cracks and crevices.  Rodents can chew through drywall, electrical wiring, and contaminate food with pathogens.  Use professional services to help you identify and seal any rodent access points.  Many times your garages are prone to rodent activity, make sure this is part of your prevention routine.  Eradication of rodents require both pest control measures and some physical changes.  Be sure to remove all potential food sources.  This includes garbage, old leaves, fallen fruits/vegetables, clutter, and pet food.  

You may not be seeing bugs outside during the winter, but they are not gone.  We want you to be able to enjoy your winter season inside your cozy, warm homes free from any pest.  Please feel free to call us today with questions or concerns you may have.  252-519-0900