
When winter sets in, you may think you no longer need pest control; however, this is usually not the case. In fact, rodents, bed bugs, and cockroaches may share your living space as it gets older. Such unwanted visitors can create serious issues when left unchecked. This makes it important to understand the type of pests that can live in your house in winter and how they can enter your home. Also, you must know when it is time to work with experts from greenpestservices.net. These experts are highly trained in managing different types of household pests using proven and tested methods and products. Below are different types of winter pests that can infest your property and how to deal with them:
Rodents
Rodents are a winter nuisance, with species such as roof rats, house mice, Norway rats, and field mice invading houses. These species show certain behaviors that allow them to find food and shelter inside your home. House mice like indoor environments while Norway and roof rats usually occupy certain areas like attics and basements. To prevent these rodents from taking over your space, seal possible entry points with steel wool or caulk. Also, it’s important to keep your home free of clutter by storing all items off the ground.
Check your house regularly to identify vulnerabilities. Also, get rid of water and food sources and store food items in airtight containers. Do not leave spills and crumbs on the counter or floor uncleaned. Set up traps in areas where rodents are found. If the issue persists, seek pest control services.
Cockroaches
In the winter, houses become appealing for different pests like cockroaches. Such pests stay active year-round; however, they seek warmth in winter. Roaches can infest your home for warmth, water, and food.
During winter, roaches enter diapause, which is like a hibernation state. But they tend to thrive in warm spaces where they can continuously reproduce and feed. To effectively prevent and control a roach infestation, seal all crevices and cracks that these pests use as entry points. Also, clean and dispose of waste regularly to make your home less attractive to roaches.
In addition, you can deter roaches by getting rid of water sources like standing water and leaking pipes. Use sealed containers to store food and never leave food scraps and dirty dishes out overnight. Check your home for moisture problems to further prevent infestations. A pest control company employs experts who can eliminate an active roach infestation and protect your house from future infestations.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs usually hide in the seams of furniture and mattresses, posing serious challenges for homeowners in winter. To effectively deal with a bed bug issue, identify the pests properly. When not fed, adult bed bugs are rusty brown or mahogany., around a quarter of an inch long, and flat. When fed, they turn red-brown. Bed bugs feed on blood, usually at night to avoid being detected.
Find signs of a bed bug infestation like reddish-brown blood spots that can be found on bed sheets, dark fecal stains, live bed bugs, sweet, musty odor, and shed skins. To fight such pests effectively, prevention is necessary. This can be done by minimizing clutter around the house to reduce hiding spots and vacuuming regularly, especially behind or under beds.
Moreover, inspect the new furniture you bring in and check your luggage and clothing following every travel. If you think you have an active infestation, pest control experts can offer thorough treatment. To prepare your house, wash bedding and declutter. To maintain an environment free of these bloodsuckers, have follow-up inspections done regularly and work with a skilled exterminator.