Overwintering: What You Need to Know About Preventing Winter Pests

Now that the temperatures are beginning to drop and our area has experienced a few overnight freezes, you may have heard people talking about how the lower temperatures will help kill off any bugs that seem to be a nuisance during the spring and summer. This may be true for a small fraction of pests. However, there are many pests that overwinter. Overwinter means that they can live through the winter. Many types of plants overwinter. Animals overwinter. Insects and rodents also overwinter.

Not only do several species of pests survive the winter, but many do so by coming into your home for food and warm shelter. Here are some things you need to know about overwintering pests and what you can do to prevent them from becoming an infestation in the spring.

Caulk It. Seal It. Stay on Top of the Winter Pest Game

Now you see them. Now you don’t. Pests seem to disappear in the blink of an eye when the temp starts to drop. However, the big issue with insects and rodents overwintering in your home is that you may not even notice that they are there. In fact, many people are under the belief that their pest problem is gone because they are not seeing them. This is a HUGE problem. Even though you may not see these pests until they make their presence known in the spring, it’s important to take as many preventative steps as possible to keep them out of your home in the cooler months.We always recommend taking advantage of exclusion techniques such as caulking cracks and crevices and sealing any openings around windows and doors. Some other winter pest-proofing techniques include:

• Inspect and seal openings around your chimney
• Replace screens covering vents and any outside attic openings
• Clean out gutters to prevent nesting and feeding areas
• Keep your home tidy and clutter-free
• Don’t leave your pet’s food and water bowl out overnight

Types of Pests to Look out for During the Winter

There are many types of pests that overwinter as a means of survival during low temperatures. Here are a few of the more popular pests to look out for this winter.

• Stink bugs
• Ladybugs
• Spiders
• Beetles
• Mice
• Termites
• Bed Bugs

Look for Signs of Insects and Rodents Getting Cozy in Your Home

Even with the best prevention techniques, there is still a possibility for insects and rodents to get into your home. The best thing you can do is look for signs that they have in fact come into your home. Here are some common signs of pest invasion:

• Dead bugs indoors
• Droppings
• Odd, musty smells
• Shed exoskeletons
• Nests or webs

Call Hopper Termite & Pest, Inc. for Help

Just because you don’t see them, doesn’t mean that they are not there. Don’t let your home become a winter vacation destination for pests and rodents. If you see or suspect bugs or rodents to be hibernating in your home for the winter, give us a call today.

Our trained technicians will carefully inspect your home or business for signs of entry and hibernation. From there, we can put together a plan to get rid of any troubling insects or rodents so that you don’t have a major infestation when warmer temperatures come back around. Don’t wait! Give Hopper Termite & Pest, Inc. a call today at (870)425-4122.