If you live in the deep south, you expect winter to be mild, especially compared to your neighbors up north. And, because of our relatively mild winters, we are unfortunately not freed from pest and insect issues!
Do you need pest control in the winter?
While you may not see as many insects, pest control in the winter is still important where we live. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA)’s Fall & Winter 2022 Bug Barometer predicted an increase in pest pressure across the country, including in the southeast U.S. based on below-average temperatures. Overwintering occurs when it gets cold outside and pests move indoors to stay warm, which could pose a problem for your home or business.
3 of the Most Common Winter Pests in South Georgia and North Florida
Stink Bugs and Kudzu Bugs
Stink bugs are a problem all year-round, but in the winter they become even more of a nuisance by entering your home seeking someplace warm. They get in through cracks in the foundation, teeny tiny little tears in your screens and gaps in your windows or even when you open the door as you go in and out.
You can keep them out of your home or buildings by sealing entry points like cracks and crevices around door trim and windows. If you live in South Georgia and North Florida, you can get help with your stink bug or kudzu bug infestation this winter by calling your friendly pest control experts, especially if you get tired of these pests cozying up to watch tv with you in the evening!
Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Rodents such as mice and rats do not hibernate in the winter. This winter, the NPMA predicts an increase in rodent activity in the Southeast as these pests move indoors seeking shelter from colder temperatures. Rodents can reproduce quickly, and they are capable of causing damage to your property by chewing through drywall, insulation, wood, and electrical wiring, increasing the potential risk for fires. They also carry parasites which can spread bacteria and disease.
You can keep rodents out of your home by eliminating sources of food and water and by sealing any areas of entry such as cracks or holes near your attic or crawl space. Still, it can be difficult to keep rodents out; a mouse can fit through an opening the size of a dime and a rat can fit through a hole the size of a quarter. A qualified pest management company can provide a customized treatment plan to eliminate rodents and prevent conditions in which rodents may return.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are cold-blooded creatures. This means they cannot regulate their body temperatures, so they must seek a warmer environment when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, the sanctuary they seek will often be your home or business.
No one wants to see cockroaches running around! And they can also carry diseases and bacteria. You can avoid a cockroach infestation this winter by keeping your kitchen clean and putting away food. If you do have an infestation, remember to reach out to a qualified pest management professional for help!
If you see any of these or other pests in your home this winter, reach out to us, Dixon Pest Services, to schedule a complimentary consultation.