Why Winter Is Prime Time for Pests (And What Homeowners Can Do About It)

When temperatures drop, most people assume pests disappear until spring. Unfortunately, that’s one of the biggest myths in pest control.

The truth? Winter is when many pests move inside — and once they’re in, they’re comfortable staying.

If you’ve ever heard scratching in the walls, noticed droppings in the garage, or seen spiders popping up indoors during colde

r months, you’re not alone.

Let’s break down why winter is prime time for pests and what homeowners can do to protect their homes.

Why Pests Invade Homes During Winter

Cold weather forces pests to look for three things:

• Warmth

• Food

• Shelter

Your home checks all three boxes.

As outdoor temperatures drop, pests like rodents, spiders, ants, and cockroaches squeeze through tiny cracks, vents, and gaps to survive the winter indoors.

Unlike summer pests, winter pests aren’t just passing through — they’re settling in.

Common Winter Pests to Watch For

During winter, pest control professionals most often see:

🐭 Rodents (Mice & Rats)

• Chew through walls, wires, and insulation

• Spread bacteria and contaminate food

• Nest in attics, basements, and wall voids

🕷 Spiders

• Move into garages, basements, and closets

• Often go unnoticed until numbers increase

🐜 Ants

• Seek warmth near plumbing and kitchens

• Can remain active all winter indoors

🪳 Cockroaches

• Thrive in warm, humid areas

• Spread germs and trigger allergies

Signs of a Winter Pest Problem

Many winter infestations go unnoticed because activity is quieter than in summer. Watch for:

• Scratching or movement in walls or ceilings

• Droppings in pantries, garages, or basements

• Chewed packaging or wires

• Increased spider webs indoors

• Musty or unusual odors

If you notice any of these signs, pests may already be established.

Why Waiting Until Spring Can Make Things Worse

Winter pests don’t just hide — they reproduce.

By the time spring arrives:

• Rodent populations can multiply

• Nesting damage may already be done

• Small problems become expensive repairs

Preventative winter pest control stops infestations before they explode.

How Winter Pest Control Protects Your Home

Professional winter pest control focuses on:

• Sealing entry points pests use to get inside

• Treating active infestations

• Preventing nesting and breeding

• Protecting insulation, wiring, and food storage

It’s quieter, more targeted, and often more effective than waiting until peak pest season.

Don’t Let Pests Make Your Home Their Winter Getaway

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean pests are gone. In fact, winter is one of the smartest times to protect your home.

If you want peace of mind all season long, a winter pest inspection can stop problems before they start.

Dave’s Pest Control is here to help keep your home pest-free — even when the temperatures drop.