Overwintering Pests and You: What you need to know

Various pests have the ability to overwinter in homes, seeking refuge from the harsh outdoor conditions. Some common pests that may take shelter in your home during the winter include:

1. Rodents (Mice and Rats): Rodents are known for seeking warmth and shelter indoors during colder months. They can squeeze through openings as small as your pinky to access your home and pantry.‍‍
2. ‍Insects (Ants, Cockroaches, and Termites): Certain insects may try to overwinter in the protective environment of your home. Ants, cockroaches, and termites can remain active and continue to cause issues during the winter.‍
3. Spiders: While many spiders become less active in the winter, some species may seek shelter indoors. They often hide in corners, closets, and other secluded areas.‍
4. Wasps: The queen will seek shelter in protected locations then go dormant in order to survive the winter. In the spring she’ll lay eggs and establish a new colony. When the eggs hatch, the queen cares for the first generation of workers until they can take over the tasks, allowing her to focus on laying eggs. By early fall, new queens and males are produced, continuing the life cycle of the wasp colony.‍
5. Stink Bugs: Stink bugs are notorious for finding their way into homes during the colder months. They may congregate in large numbers, particularly in attics and wall voids.‍
6. Cluster Flies: Cluster flies often gather in large numbers, especially in attics and wall voids, seeking warmth and shelter during the winter.‍
7. Ladybugs (Asian Lady Beetles): Ladybugs may seek refuge in your home to escape the cold. While they are generally harmless, their presence in large numbers can be a nuisance.‍
8. Boxelder Bugs: These bugs often overwinter in homes, especially in wall voids and protected areas. They become active again when the weather warms up.

To prevent overwintering pests, it's essential to seal entry points, maintain cleanliness, and address any issues promptly. If you notice signs of an infestation, seeking professional pest control assistance may be necessary to effectively address the problem.

Presto Pest Solutions is a go to Pest Control company here in Meridian and Boise. We specialize in making sure overwintering pests don't evade your home.

Call Presto Pest Solutions today 208-510-0307

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