One thing to pay attention to as the weather begins to turn colder is the pests that seek to come inside to do what is known as overwintering. This is a process that involves pests seeking shelter in preparation for the harsh elements of winter.
During the fall, pests work to find shelter, food sources, and water like many animals do when resources become scarce. If pests have already begun this process, you'll likely find them in locations like attic spaces and wall voids.
Under normal circumstances, you won't see them come back out again until spring, but warm weather during the winter season can trick them into coming out early thereby creating a larger problem than you anticipated for the upcoming winter season.
Which Pests Commonly Overwinter
Fortunately, not every pest is associated with overwintering. However, that doesn't mean there aren't common culprits to be on the lookout for. Pay close attention to signs for the following:
- Stink Bugs: This is an invasive species that comes from Asia, but has quickly made its way through the United States. Most of their lifecycle occurs outdoors, but they are known for bringing their smelly selves inside when winter is coming. The worst part is this can be done in large numbers, which means it's a big problem from the beginning.
- Asian Lady Beetles: For the most part, this species is harmless. However, these beetles are known to aggravate asthma problems and may cause allergic reactions. In addition, they exude a liquid that stains surfaces and smells bad.
- Boxelder Bugs: They first start by grouping around warm spots on the building before coming inside. They get in through insulated cracks and crevices. Besides their high numbers, the most frustrating parts about these pests are the potential for fabric discoloration and the occasional bite when handled.
- Mice: This species doesn't overwinter in the classic sense. They are actually active all year round. However, during winter, they are known to force their way inside since they are mammals and need heat. Plus, they love to get into our food, which only reinforces their desire to come in for a visit. Mice are known to cause property damage and a range of health problems.
Prevention Tips
Regardless of the kinds of pests, we're talking about, the end result is the same. Prevention is the key to staying on top of the pest population and ensuring you're not overrun during the cold winter months. To that end, be sure to follow the tips below:
- Inspection matters: During the fall, inspect the exterior of your home to identify any possible entry points that pests can use.
- Seal everything up: Seal any cracks, gaps, holes, crevices, and other entry points you find. Pests can get inside through the smallest of openings. Be sure to use silicone caulk for the best results. Also, steel wool works wonders when filling holes around utilities.
- Make repairs: Repair or replace all screens on doors and windows.
- Barrier zone: Clear at least six inches of space from the foundation of your home of anything including mulch, bark, pine straws, and anything else that pests can use.
- Clean: Wipe down counters, sweep up crumbs, and remove all debris to ensure a pest-free home or at least a higher chance of one.
Eliminate Overwintering Pests With Bay Pest
Keeping your family and property safe is an all-year endeavor. When pests threaten to invade, it becomes that much harder to accomplish. That's why our team at Bay Pest works tirelessly to deliver pest-free solutions no matter the circumstances.
With over 40 years of experience, our customers know they can count on our residential pest control programs to succeed because they know we treat the problem as if it was our own. Reach out to Bay Pest today for help with overwintering pests.