The Cold Weather Critters You Might See in Your Attic This Winter

As winter peaks, your attic could become a cozy refuge for various critters seeking warmth and shelter. During this time, safeguarding your space from these unwelcome guests is crucial. At Knockout Pest Control, we specialize in addressing winter attic pests. Here’s what you need to know to keep your attic pest-free this season.

Common Winter Attic Pests

First, let’s take a closer look at five common household pests that are known to invade New York homes’ attics during the winter:

Mice

During the colder months, mice seek warmth, shelter, and food inside residential homes. They can make their way inside through tiny vulnerabilities, such as cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, needing a space only about the size of a dime to gain entry. Mice commonly nest in dark, secluded areas, so attics are a common hotspot. They pose health and safety risks by contaminating food and chewing on electrical wires.

Rats

Rats, similar to mice, seek refuge from the cold, favoring urban and suburban residences for their abundance of food and shelter. Rats are known for their ability to enter homes through small openings, just like mice; they need space only about as large as a quarter to gain entry. These rodents are opportunistic, with a keen sense of smell and the ability to gnaw through various materials, making them risky, resilient roommates that are challenging to control without professional pest control.

Squirrels

Squirrels may also seek refuge in your attic during winter, creating nests and causing potential damage. They are agile climbers and can access your home by jumping from nearby branches or trees. Once inside, squirrels can damage insulation and wiring. Sealing entry points to your attic is key to preventing them from nesting inside.

Birds

Birds like pigeons and sparrows may also seek shelter in your New York home’s attic during winter, especially if there are convenient openings or damaged vents. While seemingly harmless, birds will create nests and can cause structural damage and health concerns from their droppings. Certain bird species, such as pigeons, can also carry diseases and create noisy disruptions.

Spiders

Spiders, the silent residents of attics, possess a remarkable ability to conceal themselves until the telltale signs of their presence emerge – intricate webs scattered across corners and crevices. Despite the majority being harmless, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential dangers associated with specific species like the brown recluse and black widow, known for their venomous bites that pose life-threatening health risks.

Knockout Winter Pests with These Tips!

Preventing these common winter pests from making your attic their cozy retreat involves a combination of vigilance and proactive measures:

• Seal any potential entry points, such as cracks, gaps, or damaged vents, that might invite these critters into your home.
• Trim branches and vegetation that could serve as highways for squirrels or birds.
• Regularly inspect your attic for signs of infestation, such as nests, droppings, or webs, and address any issues promptly.
• Maintain a clean and clutter-free attic space to make your home less inviting for unwelcome guests.

Ensure a Pest-Free Home All Winter Long

Understanding the behaviors of common winter attic pests is key to enjoying your home pest-free, all season long! By taking simple preventive measures, such as sealing entry points and conducting regular inspections, you can protect your attic against seasonal intruders.

If you suspect any unwelcome guests this winter, Knockout Pest Control is here to help. Schedule an inspection today to ensure your winter is cozy, comfortable, and critter-free.