Why Winter Brings Unwanted Houseguests
As fall slips into winter and the nights turn colder, most of us head indoors, shut the windows, and get cozy. Unfortunately… pests are doing the exact same thing.
Every year, as temperatures drop across Sonoma County and the surrounding areas, homeowners begin to notice an increase in scratching noises in the attic, sudden ant trails in the kitchen, or spiders claiming the corners of the guest room. It can feel like these pests appear out of nowhere, but there’s a very real reason behind the surge.
Winter isn’t just a change in season. For pests, it’s a major survival challenge, and your home becomes the perfect refuge.
Why Pests Suddenly Invade When It Gets Cold
When outdoor temperatures fall, pests lose access to the things that keep them alive: food, water, and warmth. Instinct kicks in, and many species begin searching for sheltered spots, preferably with heat, moisture, and a steady food supply.
In other words: your home checks every box.
And while each pest has its own reason for sneaking inside, winter tends to bring the same core group of invaders year after year.
Rodents: The First to Move In
As soon as the temperature dips, mice and rats begin looking for warmth. They can slip into homes through gaps as small as a dime, settling into walls, attics, and garages.
You may notice:
- Scratching or scurrying noises
- Droppings in kitchens or storage areas
- Chewed wires or insulation
Rodents multiply quickly, which makes early intervention essential.
Spiders: Following the Food Source
Spiders don’t necessarily want to live indoors — but when insects begin moving inside, spiders follow. They’re simply chasing the warmth and the food.
You’ll typically see them in:
- Corners
- Garages
- Attics
- Behind stored boxes
An increase in spiders often indicates that other pests are present as well.
Ants: Searching for Winter Snacks
During winter, ants need reliable food and dry shelter. Kitchens and bathrooms offer both.
If you notice ant trails when it’s cold out, it’s rarely a one-off event; it usually signals that a colony has found an entry point and is planning to stick around.
Cockroaches: Escaping the Freeze
Cockroaches can’t survive freezing temperatures, so your heated home becomes a safe haven. Once established, they multiply fast and carry bacteria that threaten your indoor air quality.
You’ll most often find them:
- Under appliances
- In bathrooms
- Around plumbing lines
- In dark pantry corners
Overwintering Insects: Waiting Out the Cold
Boxelder bugs, cluster flies, and stink bugs don’t come inside to eat; they come to hibernate. They slip into walls, attics, and cracks around windows. The real surprise? They reappear in spring… often inside your home.
Silverfish & Earwigs: Chasing Moisture and Warmth
Winter pushes these pests toward warm, humid areas; bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms are their favorites.
How Homeowners Can Stay Protected This Winter
To reduce pest activity before it becomes a full infestation:
- Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation
- Keep firewood stored away from the house
- Reduce moisture in bathrooms, kitchens, and crawl spaces
- Store food securely
- Clear clutter from garages and basements
- Maintain a seasonal pest control plan
When It’s Time to Call a Professional
If you’ve noticed recurring pest sightings, signs of rodents, unusual noises, or sudden winter activity, it’s best to call a professional sooner rather than later. Winter infestations rarely go away on their own; in fact, they almost always escalate.
A trained technician can identify the source, treat the infestation safely, and prevent future intrusions throughout the colder months.
If you suspect a pest issue, don’t wait until it becomes a larger issue.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get rid of those unwanted guests
