9 COMMON WINTER PESTS

The first day of winter is December 21st! That means it is time to watch for snowflakes, drink hot chocolate and wear comfy socks. Some folks may be under the impression that pests are not a nuisance in the winter due to cold temperatures. Although some pests are less active, sometimes dormant, there are still plenty of others that take their place and can ruin your snowy night in. We’ve listed some of the more common winter pests and how you can identify them fast.

BED BUGS
Bed bugs. Never. Stop. Not even in the winter. These bugs multiply rapidly and feed on you when you are still or sleeping. Plus they can hide in any nook, cranny or crevice. They gather in these small spaces in groups, multiply and feed when there is little movement. They travel easily, so if you plan on traveling or having guests, especially that have been on an airplane, be sure to thoroughly inspect all luggage before bringing it into your home.

TERMITES
These tricky, little, winged, wood-eaters can still be present as temperatures drop. Termites still hunger for wood during the winter months and could be buried deep in your firewood pile, just waiting for you to carry them inside. If they do make it into your home, subterranean termites can dive deep into your foundation and wreak havoc. Spring and summer may be their peak time of year but be sure to keep an eye out for termites this winter.

RACCOONS, SQUIRRELS, MICE AND RATS
Even though these pests are larger than bugs they are great at hiding. They may first take interest in your home due to trash or other food smells and will be trying to find their way into your home to stay warm. Because they are larger you may notice scratching noises, droppings or even see them at some point. It is especially important to keep these critters out to avoid the potential of rabies, or other diseases, you or your pets could contract from a bite or simply being exposed to bacteria they carry. Mice also increase your risk of structural problems, and even electrical fires from gnawing on wires.

COCKROACHES
Another pest searching for food and may make their way into your home via groceries or other packages. Once inside they will most likely be bound for your kitchen or bathroom. As they travel around your home they will be spreading bacteria and cause allergy and asthma issues to those that are allergic.

SPIDERS
In winter, the presence of spiders can increase. Most spiders that make their way into your home are harmless, however in our area Brown Recluse Spiders can bite and cause serious illness with their poisonous venom.

FLIES 
This is another pest, like cockroaches, that can find their way into your home via groceries and multiply in your kitchen. Although they aren’t harmful they can be very annoying and unsanitary. Clusters of any type of fly can be a problem, especially if your windows and doors are sealed. Another fly you may see are drain flies. They are smaller than your common house fly and are typically found near, yep you guessed it, drains and other water sources such as shower heads. So be on the look out in the bathroom as well as the kitchen.

WINGED CARPENTER ANTS
Ants are another common summer pest. However if they are seen in the winter months it can signal that they have built a nest somewhere in your home and don’t plan on leaving. Sometimes these winged ants can even be mistaken for termites and can have similar damage consequences. Either way, you should call us immediately to take care of the problem, before it gets bigger!

877-DEAD-BUG | bdpest.com