As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, many pests begin seeking shelter and warmth in homes and other buildings. While some pests hibernate during the winter, others become more active and can pose a threat to both property and human health. Here are some common winter pests to watch for in the Boise area and how to prevent and control them.
Mice, and other rodents are among the most common pests to invade homes during the winter. They are attracted to the warmth and shelter that buildings provide, as well as to sources of food and water. Rodents can cause damage to property by gnawing on wires, insulation, and other materials, and can also spread diseases such as Hantavirus and Salmonella.
To prevent rodents from entering your home, seal all cracks and openings in the foundation, walls, and roof. Keep food in airtight containers and clean up spills and crumbs promptly. If you suspect a rodent infestation, contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and recommend treatment.
While many spiders hibernate during the winter, some species remain active and may seek shelter in homes and other buildings. The most common winter spiders in the Boise area are the hobo spider and the wolf spider. While both are venomous, their bites are typically not life-threatening.
To prevent spiders from entering your home, seal all cracks and openings in the foundation, walls, and roof. Keep clutter and debris away from the outside of your home, as these can provide hiding places for spiders. If you do encounter a spider in your home, vacuum it up and dispose of the bag outside.
Cockroaches are attracted to warmth and moisture, and may enter homes during the winter in search of these conditions. They are also attracted to food and can contaminate surfaces and spread diseases such as Salmonella and E. coli.
To prevent cockroaches from entering your home, keep all food in airtight containers and clean up spills and crumbs promptly. Fix any leaks or moisture problems in your home, and keep basements and other areas dry and well-ventilated. If you do encounter cockroaches in your home, contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and recommend treatment.
Bed bugs are a year-round problem, but they can become more of an issue during the winter as people travel more and may unknowingly bring bed bugs back with them. Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases, but their bites can be itchy and uncomfortable.
To prevent bed bugs from infesting your home, inspect hotel rooms and other accommodations carefully before settling in. Keep luggage off the floor and away from the bed, and wash all clothes in hot water after traveling. If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and recommend treatment.
Winter pests can be a nuisance and pose a threat to both property and human health. To prevent and control winter pests, it is important to seal all cracks and openings in your home, keep food in airtight containers, and clean up spills and crumbs promptly. If you suspect a pest infestation, contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and recommend treatment.
If you need pest control services in the Boise area, EcoSense Pest Control can help. Our experienced technicians use environmentally-friendly methods to eliminate pests and prevent future infestations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
