Winter Pests 101: Identifying and Preventing Common Intruders
As you settle into winter in New York, the holiday season fading into memory, it’s time to acknowledge the elephant in the room—winter pests. It’s a common misconception that pests “die off” in the winter; in actuality, these unwelcome guests could already be seeking refuge in the warmth of your home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common household pests during the winter season, how to spot them, and proactive measures to keep your home pest-free.
Mice: Cozy Nests in Tiny Spaces
During the cooler months, mice seek warmth, shelter, and food inside New York homes. Most often, they make their way inside via tiny vulnerabilities, such as a crack or gap in your home’s foundation, needing a space only about the size of a dime to gain entry. Inside, mice nest in dark, secluded areas like basements and attics, and are known to contaminate food and chew on electrical wires, posing multiple health and safety risks. To prevent mice, seal cracks and gaps, store food in airtight containers, and keep your home clean and clutter-free.
Rats: Winter Woes in Urban and Suburban Dwellings
Whether you reside in the heart of the city or the tranquility of the suburbs, rats are adept at seeking warmth during colder months. Their preference for urban and suburban areas stems from the availability of food and shelter. These persistent rodents can infiltrate homes through small openings, posing significant risks to both your property and health.
Bed Bugs: Unwanted Travel Companions…Even Beyond the Holidays!
While the holiday season has concluded, the risk of encountering bed bugs lingers year-round. Travel remains a common factor contributing to bed bug infestations, leading to itchy bites and restless nights. Increased travel during the holiday season may have heightened the risk, but vigilance is crucial at any time of the year.
Stay proactive by inspecting hotel rooms during travels, adopting the practice of washing and drying clothes on high heat after returning, and exercising caution when purchasing second-hand furniture. These measures contribute to a bed bug-free home throughout the year.
Cockroaches: Winter Wanderers
Cockroaches, known for thriving in warm and humid environments, find winter to be an opportune time to seek refuge inside your home. These resilient pests are not only unwelcome guests but also potential carriers of diseases, allergy triggers, and contaminants of food.
Fortify your defenses against cockroaches by sealing entry points, fixing leaks promptly, and maintaining a clean home environment. Storing food in airtight containers further denies these pests access to a potential food source.
Spiders: Eight-Legged Roommates
Spiders are adept at hiding and often escape notice until their webs become visible. While many spiders are harmless, some species, such as the brown recluse and black widow, pose health risks with their potentially painful bites.
Safeguard your home from spiders by incorporating regular cleaning and dusting into your routine. Seal cracks and gaps to limit their entry points, and eliminate clutter where spiders might conceal themselves. These proactive measures help ensure a spider-free living space.
Knockout the Risk of Winter Pests
While these tips can significantly reduce the risk of pests infiltrating your home, the best defense is a proactive one. If you suspect a pest issue or want to protect your home against potential infestations, contact Knockout Pest Control for a free home pest control estimate. Our experts are equipped to handle common household pests, offering tailored solutions to keep your home pest-free throughout the winter season and beyond.