The summer months are known for bringing dormant pests to the surface, but that doesn’t mean you can give up pest control efforts during the winter. After all, common pests don’t simply stop existing because autumn came around. Throughout this article, we discuss five common winter pests alongside tried and tested control methods.
Rats
There are two types of rats to be concerned about in the UK: the black rat and the common brown rat. If you have a rat infestation in your home, the chances are that you’re dealing with brown rats. In the winter, rats are in search of somewhere warm to set up, and your home makes the perfect destination.
To avoid being invaded by rats, make sure your home is kept clean of clutter and all food is thrown out. Further, you should cover up any entry points including cracks in the wall. If you need help assessing your home, we suggest getting in touch with an expert Bristol pest control company like Advance Pest Control Bristol. A Bristol pest controller will offer expert advice and solutions to the problem.
Mice
There’s no denying that mice look cute when they’re on display at the pet shop, but it’s a different story when they’re scurrying around your home unchecked. Mice leave similar signs of infestation to rats and will be searching for a warm place to stay when they enter your home during the winter.
If you notice any mice droppings, shredded paper, chewed wires, or nibbled food, you need to act quickly by contacting your local pest control service. They can provide you with humane traps and they’ll often come set them up for you.
Cluster Fly
If you see flies buzzing around during the summer, it’s generally because you’ve left the window open. However, when your home is sealed shut during the winter, it’s more likely that flies have come from inside your home. Therefore, if you keep seeing flies in the winter, an expert may be needed.
Flying Ants
During the humidity of July and August, flying ants begin to take flight in search of a mate, which is why you may find them fluttering around your home. However, if you’re seeing flying ants in the winter, the chances are that you’ve got a nest of carpenter ants somewhere in your home.
Ants are tricky to remove from your home because they’re smart and have a habit of moving their nest if they’re feeling threatened.
Spiders
There are around 650 species of spider in the UK, but only 12 of these are known for biting. However, with their eight legs, plenty of people are terrified of spiders. In the winter, many people believe spiders invade their homes to escape the cold but they’re already there. You can identify a spider infestation by looking for these signs.
Pests are still in homes during the winter, they simply act differently. Continue practising preventative tactics and be sure to call in a pest controller Bristol to secure your home.
