Even in Southern California and other warm-weather climates, exterminators often field numerous phone calls for pest control services during the winter months. Because many rodents and insects prefer the heat, a drop in outdoor temperatures causes the critters to seek out houses for warmth. Beyond improved comfort, below are other reasons your property is an ideal winter home for pests. 

Why Pests Infest Houses During Winter

Rodents Search for Food

In addition to warmth, rodents will venture inside houses in search of food. Rats and mice see their food supply dwindle in winter, as trees don’t produce nuts, acorns, and berries in the cold weather.

To get inside the house, mice can compress their bodies to wedge through cracks, holes, and crevices the diameter of a dime. Juvenile rats can fit through holes the diameter of a quarter. Rodents will squeeze through cracks in concrete foundations, doors, fascia boards, and other areas to scrounge for rations in kitchen cupboards and trashcans.

Rodents carry diseases and can destroy insulation, wires, and other property, which is why you should seal off damaged areas, schedule weekly garbage collection, and keep food in airtight containers. 

Ants Run Away From Damp Weather

Argentine ants are a common nuisance in Southern California during winter, which is considered the rainy season. They’ll search for drier conditions inside to escape the excess moisture. Once indoors, Argentine ants will also look for food.

To keep the insects at bay, place caulk in any holes present along the exterior of your home and make pet food harder to access. For example, put the dog dish on a plate with water, as the insects won’t travel through the liquid to reach the food. 

Spiders Prey on Other Insects

Due to the mild winters in Southern California, some spider species can be a nuisance year-round. Black widow spiders, for example, might seek shelter closer to the house to feel the heat radiating from inside.

They will gravitate to garages, woodpiles in the yard, and other dark and damp places. As spiders eat flies, grasshoppers, and beetles, have an exterminator remove these insects to help curb a spider infestation.

If you’ve noticed signs of unwelcome critters in your home, contact the exterminators at family-owned and -operated Finley Home Services, Termite & Pest Control in Roseville, CA, for help. With over 15 years of experience, the informative technicians are familiar with the behavior of bugs and rodents that thrive in the Southern California climate. The licensed crew will perform pest inspections to pinpoint vulnerable areas and removal services to restore the safety of your home. Learn why you should hire the exterminators online, and call (916) 741-2847 for an appointment.