Many animals and insects hibernate to survive the winter. Overwintering pests like to hide during the winter in a warm place that is typically in someone’s home. After the winter season is over, overwintering pests will come out of hibernation and start to spread around the home. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common types of overwintering pests, as well as some tips on how to keep overwintering pests out of your home.
Common Types of Overwintering Pests:
- Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are generally brown in color with a marbled-like pattern. These pests spend their time outdoors in the summer; however, they start heading indoors in the fall. They produce a very unpleasant odor when stressed or crushed.
- Asian Lady Beetles
Asian Lady Beetles looks very similar to ladybugs and are found in almost all parts of the United States. Most Asian Lady Beetles are not dangerous to humans, but some can cause allergic reactions.
- Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are one of the most common overwintering pests that can easily slip through cracks in homes, sheds, or garages. They don’t cause diseases, but their waste can discolor curtains, clothing, upholstery, or other fabrics.
- Rodents
Rodents are usually active throughout the year, but they typically start migrating indoors in the winter time. They prefer to make nests somewhere close to a readily available food supply, and can pose serious threats to your health. Rodents can also cause major structural damage to your home.
- Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are another type of overwintering pest that you can easily find in your home during the winter season. Cluster flies typically gather in groups in order to get warm from sunlight or other lights.
How to Prevent Overwintering Pests from Infesting in Your Home:
- Seal all cracks and crevices around your home.
- Keep your gutters cleaned regularly, as some pests feed on them and make homes out of the debris.
- Keep your house neat and tidy. Vacuum, sweep, mop, and clean up spills to prevent pests being attracted to your home.
- Have a pest control expert look through your home. A pest control expert will implement preventative measures that will reduce the chances of overwintering pests colonizing in your home.
In Conclusion…
If you are worried that there may already be a pest infestation in your home, get in touch with us! We have years of experience, and we offer FREE inspections. We will inspect your home and safely remove any pests, while also taking preventative measures to keep pests from coming back.
If you need help dealing with unwanted wildlife, check out Midstate Wildlife Solutions!