As temperatures dip in the Roanoke Valley, you may think that peak pest season has come to an end. While it’s true that the winter in Roanoke slows pest activity, it doesn’t eliminate it.

Preventing pests is a year-round endeavor. Every season has its unique challenges. Let’s dive into why winter won’t solve your pest problem and what to do instead.

Does Cold Weather Kill Off Bugs?

You probably notice fewer buzzing insects in the colder months, but winter does not totally kill off bugs. Many insects enter survival mode during winter—including hibernation or nesting—which explains why you see fewer of them.

Some pests do die off, but many simply move closer to warmth. And that source of warmth is often your home. In other words, winter doesn’t mean your home will be pest free. In fact, your home is the ideal place for many unwanted pests to overwinter.

Pests That Cold Weather Does Reduce

Very cold temperatures make survival harder. It makes sense that many people think winter will eliminate their pest problems. Wintertime does reduce certain pests, especially the nuisances that plague you during warmer weather.  Here are a few pests that are commonly affected by lower outdoor temperatures:

• Mosquitoes: During winter, the adults die. Their eggs may overwinter depending on the species.
• Ticks: Their activity slows significantly, but they can survive under leaf litter.
• Flies & Gnats: Their population can drop outdoors, but they can continue breeding indoors.

Pests That Survive Virginia Winters

Roanoke has a temperate climate. We enjoy all four seasons, but as a rule our winters are not that harsh. Extremely low temperatures are rare and brief.  As a result, many pests survive through the winters here. And they often do it by seeking shelter in your home. 

As the temperature dips, be sure to keep a lookout for signs of these common winter pests:

• Rodents: they seek warmth indoors, and their activity often increases during winter.
• Roaches: experts in survival, cockroaches thrive indoors and don’t depend on outdoor temperatures.
• Spiders: These eight-legged pests overwinter and remain active indoors.
• Ants: Colonies go dormant outside but invade structures seeking warmth or food.
• Stink Bugs: Stinkbugs overwinter inside walls and attics.
• Termites: These destructive pests remain active in soil or heated structures.

Why You Still See Pests in Winter

Instead of cold weather solving your pest problem, you may actually see more pests inside your home during the wintertime. You do everything you can to make your home cozy, warm, and hospitable. And pests take notice. They’re eager to let themselves in and make themselves at home.

Common culprits for pest problems in the winter include cracks, gaps, and foundation openings that let pests inside. Even if infestations remain a problem, they may simply be less visible in the winter as pests hibernate inside your house.

Call BugMan Exterminating and Pest-Proof Your Home This Winter

Winter in Roanoke means fewer active pests. But remember, lower temperatures won’t eliminate your pest problems. Each season presents unique pest management problems.

Bug Man Exterminating is ready to help you keep your home pest-free, no matter the weather.

If you suspect pests are making themselves welcome in your home this winter, schedule a free inspection. Our professional exterminators can pinpoint your issues and recommend a plan tailored to your needs.

Contact BugMan today and stay pest free this winter.