Winter Pest Watch: Common Invaders in Long Island Homes
As winter settles over Long Island, you might think the colder weather keeps pests at bay. Unfortunately, many pests see your warm home as the perfect refuge from the chill. From rodents scurrying inside to insects finding hiding spots, these unwelcome guests can cause significant trouble if left unchecked. Here’s a guide to the most common winter pests and how to keep them out of your home this season.
Mice
Mice are notorious for squeezing through incredibly small openings to escape the cold, fitting through spaces as small as a dime. Once inside, they can chew through wiring, gnaw on wood, and contaminate food with their droppings. Signs of rodent infestation include droppings, chewed materials, and scratching sounds in walls or ceilings. To mouse-proof your home, seal cracks, install door sweeps, and keep your food stored in airtight containers.
Rats
Though rats are larger than mice, they too, can sneak inside through surprisingly tiny openings about the size of a quarter. Once inside, rats can quickly cause damage to your home with their incessant gnawing—often ruining insulation and electrical wiring. Look for signs such as greasy rub marks along walls, gnaw marks, and droppings.
Spiders
Spiders tend to appear more frequently indoors during the winter months. While most spiders on Long Island are harmless, their webs can be unsightly and may signal other pest activity. Spiders feed on insects, so an influx of spiders could indicate an underlying pest issue. Regularly vacuum corners and inspect dark, undisturbed areas to keep these eight-legged critters under control.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches don’t take a winter break. Instead, they seek warmth and food in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms. These pests are fast breeders and can spread bacteria throughout your home, though they’re often found near sinks, under appliances, or in cracks and crevices. Prevent cockroach infestations by cleaning crumbs and spills immediately, sealing food, and addressing any water leaks.
Bed Bugs
The holiday season often means travel and visitors, which can increase the risk of bed bug infestations. These tiny pests hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and furniture. Bed bugs are often found in mattresses, bed frames, and upholstered furniture. To prevent them, inspect hotel rooms when traveling and wash all clothes in hot water after returning home.
Squirrels
Squirrels might seem cute outdoors, but they can wreak havoc if they get inside your home. They often nest in attics, chewing through insulation and wiring and leaving behind droppings. Signs of squirrel activity include scampering sounds in the attic and visible entry points around your roofline. Trimming tree branches away from your home and sealing entry points can help keep these critters outside where they belong.
Winter Pest Prevention Tips
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, windows, and foundations to prevent pests from sneaking in.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly clean up crumbs, spills, and food debris to eliminate food sources for pests.
- Declutter: Minimize clutter in attics, basements, and storage areas, as these are favorite hiding spots for pests.
- Address Moisture Issues: Fix leaks and ensure proper ventilation to reduce the humidity pests thrive in.
- Call the Experts: For persistent pest issues or peace of mind, schedule a professional pest control service with Knockout Pest Control.
Knock Out Winter Pests for Good
Don’t let pests take over your home this winter. Whether it’s mice in the walls, cockroaches in the kitchen, or squirrels in the attic, Knockout Pest Control is here to help Long Island homeowners stay pest-free. Our expert team provides comprehensive solutions to keep your home safe and comfortable all season long.
Contact Knockout Pest Control today to schedule a pest control estimate and enjoy a worry-free winter.
