Watch Out for Winter Wanderers

Even though February is known for being the month of love and affection, that doesn’t mean you need to be cuddled up indoors and sharing your home with winter pests. Don’t be afraid to show some tough love towards bugs and rodents this winter. Cowleys Pest Services, a pest control company that’s been serving New Jersey for almost 30 years, is sharing more about the most common pests known to invade structures and how to keep them from ruining what should be cozy time at home. 

“Winter is the time of year when nobody, not even pests, wants to be left outside in the cold,” said Bill Cowley, Co-owner. “Although there are many culprits, rodents are one of the top pests that plague homeowners this time of year. Rats and mice can fit into holes the size of a quarter and dime, respectively, and can cause significant damage to a home.”

With help from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), Cowleys Pest Services shares the most common winter pests, as well as some helpful tips to prevent them from coming indoors.

• Nuisance wildlife such as squirrels and raccoons often invade homes through attics or chimneys in search of a denning site. Screen any open vents or chimneys to prevent these pests from getting inside. 
• Rodents are said to invade 21 million homes in the U.S. each winter, bringing with them bacteria and pathogens that can spread to your family. These pests can even gnaw on the structure of your home and on electrical wires. To keep rodents out, seal all cracks and holes leading into the house.  
• Cockroaches are filthy insects that can survive in almost any weather condition. It is important to practice proper sanitation, keeping homes free of food debris and dirt. Homeowners should also eliminate any moisture buildup in dark areas of the home such as attics, basements and under appliances and sinks. 

“Spiders can also be more noticeable this time of year as they make their way inside. Although most species of spiders are harmless to humans, brown recluse and black widow spiders can pack a dangerous and venomous bite,” added Cowley. “If you find yourself stuck with a pest problem of any kind this season, contact one of our a qualified pest control professionals for help.”