Winter Pest Risks: Protect Your Florida Home

by Kevin Smith Author

You might look around during cold winter weather and think to yourself, "At least the summer flies and mosquitoes aren't out." Winter seems like a less pest-heavy season than the summer, when bug after bug seems to be all over every outdoor surface. However, winter is not without its own pest risks. Sure, some of the most common warm-weather pests have gone dormant, but that doesn't mean that you should let your guard down. Here's what you need to know about winter pest risks.

Common Winter Bugs

Some bugs are still very active during the winter, including Asian lady bugs, cluster flies, and some stink bugs. These insects can find a way into your home during the winter months, leaving messes behind, eating your indoor plants, or even going after the food in your kitchen.

Also, many insects, including cockroaches, can still be spotted during cold weather. In fact, you're more likely to see them indoors than outdoors! Unfortunately, pests can sense the warmth in your house and will prefer it to the chilly outdoors, especially at night. This means that they'll do everything they can to get between your walls, under your cabinets, and more. You should hire pest control services in St. Augustine, FL, to tackle winter pests who are trying to make a home in your home.

Winter Rain

Rain naturally drives bugs out of the soil, which is why you'll often see birds walking around your yard when the rain stops. Winter rain sends them into a particular frenzy, because this moisture is colder than normal. Ants, centipedes, millipedes, and roaches will look to your house for shelter against the cold rain. While you might almost think to pity these creatures, remember that they can carry a host of diseases. And many critters that frequently live in your soil, including spiders, ants and centipedes, have painful bites or stings that can cause allergy attacks.

Rodents

Rodents don't have a hibernation season like bears do. They're still active during the winter, even if they make efforts to conserve energy and stay bundled up. This means that rats, raccoons, and mice are still exploring your property on cold winter nights, looking for a meal.

Even worse, rodents can also take refuse inside your home, enjoying the warmth of your attic, crawl space, or basement. Don't let your house be a winter refuge for rodents, most of which are carriers of dangerous diseases.

What You Can Do

Stay alert for pest activity during the winter. Have cracks and gaps sealed along your doors and windows. This is good for your heater, too. Seal around pipes, wires, and electrical outlets as well. Your most important line of defense, though, lies in professional pest control services in St Augustine, FL. Pest control can prevent bug, arachnid, and rodent infestations during winter months.