Winter is right around the corner and while it might mean colder temps, it also means winter wonderlands, cozy evenings around a fireplace, and festive holiday gatherings. When it’s cold outside, the indoors seem pretty inviting and not just to humans. The outdoor pests that plague us during the summer work hard to invite themselves inside your home as the weather cools. But the last thing you want is a creepy crawly scampering across your holiday smorgasbord during your carefully planned festivities.

Luckily, winter pest control can be simple. Read on if you want to know more about common winter pests and how to prevent them from moving into your home.

Why You Should Prep for Winter Pest Control

From shoveling snow from the driveway to preventing ice storm damage, you have enough to worry about when it comes to winter home maintenance. Plus, unwanted pests can carry contagious diseases that may infect both humans and pets.

When you have a good plan for winter pest control, it’s really set-it-and-forget-it. A pest control plan saves you time and headache. A little advance planning will stop your pest problem before it starts so you can focus on more important things: like shopping for gifts or planning the guest list for your annual holiday party.

The Most Common Winter Pests

Now that you know that pests may try to move in during the winter, you may be wondering exactly what type of insects or rodents you should be on the lookout for. We’ve rounded up eight of the most common winter pests you may find in your home.

1. Mice and Rats only need a ¼ an inch opening to find their way into your home and can carry dangerous diseases.
2. Squirrels are commonly found in attics and chimneys and can chew through wiring and insulation.
3. Birds and Bats can and will enter your home through any exterior opening, causing mess and damage.
4. Cockroaches are attracted to moisture and food and will view your home as a welcome environment if they can find a way in.
5. Fleas often hitch a ride into your home on your pets and burrow into your carpets and furniture.
6. Bed Bugs are notorious passengers and often attach themselves to your luggage. Be vigilant against these pests when traveling!
7. Moths love wool, fur, and upholstery. If you have items stored in your closet be sure to check regularly for signs of damage.
8. Spiders are great at hide-and-seek and often tuck themselves away in dark, low traffic areas of your home.

How to Prevent Winter Pests

While an infestation seems scary, the good news is that there are several preventative measures you can take to keep unwanted pests out of your home.  

• Take an inventory of your exterior. Repair any cracks or holes, seal up pipe exteriors, and screen any vents and chimneys.
• Replace any old weather stripping or faulty pipes to keep your bathrooms, basement and attic dry.
• Mice, wasps and ants love woodpiles. Be sure to store any firewood at least 20 feet from your home.
• Keep storage areas clean, organized and clutter free.
• Never leave food in open containers and sweep up any crumbs.

Contact Bug Man Exterminating for Winter Pest Control Services

If you suspect you already have winter pests, contact an exterminator ASAP. At Bug Man Exterminating we have plans and solutions that will eliminate the problem in no time. We even offer a homecare program to treat your home quarterly so you’re covered for every season.

Our friendly pest control experts are ready to help keep your home pest free. Contact us today.