As temperatures drop and winter settles in, the warmth of our homes becomes a refuge not only for us but also for various pests seeking shelter from the cold. Understanding the pests that commonly invade homes during winter is crucial for early detection and effective prevention. Here’s a rundown of the top pests to watch out for during the winter months.

1. Rodents (Mice and Rats):

Rodents are notorious for seeking warmth indoors during winter. They can squeeze through tiny openings in search of food and shelter. Keep an eye out for droppings, gnaw marks, or shredded materials, especially in attics, basements, and kitchens.

2. Cockroaches:

Cockroaches are resilient pests that can survive cold temperatures by seeking warmth indoors. Look for signs like droppings, musty odors, or discarded exoskeletons in dark, warm areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Spiders:

While many spider species become less active in winter, some seek refuge indoors. Keep an eye out for webs, especially in corners, ceilings, and hidden spaces. Regular cleaning and sealed entry points can deter them.

4. Ants:

Certain ant species, like Argentine ants and odorous house ants, may venture indoors in search of food during winter. Seal cracks and eliminate food sources to prevent their entry.

5. Stink Bugs:

These shield-shaped insects might seek warmth indoors, typically congregating near windows or seeking shelter in attics. Look for clusters of these pests especially on sunny sides of your home.

Preventive Measures to Keep Pests at Bay:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings. Seal them using caulk or weather stripping to prevent pest entry.

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean and declutter your home, especially areas prone to crumbs, spills, or moisture.

Reduce Moisture: Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and reduce moisture in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Trim Vegetation: Keep bushes, trees, and vegetation around your home well-trimmed to deter pests from using them as entry points.

Professional Pest Control: Consider seeking help from pest control experts for preventive treatments or if an infestation occurs.

Winter invites various pests into our homes seeking warmth and shelter, but with vigilance and preventive measures, we can keep them at bay. By staying alert for signs of infestation and implementing preventive strategies, you can safeguard your home against these winter invaders, ensuring a pest-free and comfortable winter season for you and your family.

Want to talk more about how to prevent pests? Contact Attention Pest Solutions. Attention Pest Solutions offers residential pest control and commercial pest control for Saratoga County, Albany County, Washington County, Fulton County, Warren County, Schenectady County and Montgomery County.