If you live in the southern US, like residents of Georgia, then you know that, unfortunately, the warmer weather means pests and insects are still active even in the winter time. While you may not see as many insects in winter, they are still there. Sometimes, insects will even more indoors to avoid the outside cold, which could be problematic for home or business owners. Here are three of the most common pests that still remain very active during the winter months.
Rodents
Common rodents like mice and rats do not hibernate in the winter like other pests may do. Therefore, rodent activity in winter will occur, maybe even increase, as these pests search for warm places to call home. Unfortunately, rodents will reproduce quickly, meaning that what is a small rodent problem can quickly become a big rodent problem in no time at all.
And to add fuel to the fire, these pesky rodents can cause all kinds of damage to your space. They love to chew and will chew up electrical wiring, drywall, wood, insulation, and anything they can get their teeth on. They can also bring with them bacteria and diseases, making them a health hazard. To keep rodents out, be sure to seal any areas rodents may try to enter, including cracks, holes, or attic spaces. But rats and mice can find ways to fit through even the smallest holes, so when you can’t seem to keep them out, your trusted pest control company can come up with a plan to eliminate rodents.
Kudzu Bugs and Stink Bugs
Stink bugs can be found year-round, but in the winter, as they seek warmer places, they become even more of a problem. They can find their way into the smallest part of your home, cracks in the foundation, tears in the window screen, or even door openings. One of the best ways to keep these bugs out is to seal up any points of entry they may find, like cracks around doors and windows. But if you can’t seem to get rid of these pests no matter what you do, pest control professionals are here to help.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are also pests that can be active in winter as they seek shelter indoors during the colder winter season. Because they cannot regulate their own body temperatures, they must find warmer areas, which could include your home or business. Like rodents, cockroaches can also carry disease and bacteria. They also love to find food that you have left out or open. So be sure to keep the kitchen clean and seal up all food to keep cockroaches away.
Pest Control for Winter Nuisances
While there is a lot you can do to keep pests out of your area, it isn’t always a guarantee. When you have done what you can, but it still isn’t enough, there is help from pest control experts who know how to handle pest problems. Get rid of pests this winter and throughout the rest of the year with the experts at Pest Force. Call today to schedule your appointment.
FAQs About Winter Pests
Where Do Rodents Hide?
When choosing where to build their nests, rodents will often choose remote places where there isn’t much traffic. Some places inside that meet rodents’ needs and are fairly remote are attics, crawlspaces, garages, or inside walls. They sometimes also like to hide in pantries or kitchen cabinets with easy access to food sources.
What Makes Stink Bug Stink?
Stink bugs produce a stinky smell from special glands in their thorax. These glands are filled with chemicals that will release a mixture of odors. When a stink bug feels threatened, it will release these chemicals from its thorax onto its harder exoskeleton. Chemicals can also be released when these bugs are smashed, so when getting rid of stink bugs, it is best to vacuum them up instead of stepping on them.
How Fast Do Cockroaches Reproduce?
Cockroaches can get into any space fairly easily because of their small size. They can fit through even the tiniest gap in walls or windows or through doors. And if they can get into your home or business, they will spread quickly. Just two cockroaches can reproduce up to 400,000 offspring in only one year’s time if the conditions are right. So be sure to address the problem quickly if you begin to notice these unwanted pests around your space.
