Winter Pests to Watch Out for near Lexington, KY
If you are one of the many Americans that aren’t a fan of bugs and other pests, you might breathe a sigh of relief when winter rolls around. As the colder air sets in, all the pests of the hot summer seem to disappear. You no longer have to worry about being harassed and pestered by mosquitos, wasps, flies, and gnats any time you step outdoors.
However, not all pests are completely dormant during the winter, and some may seek refuge from the cold weather inside your home. Here at CHC Home Inspection, we know that you want to know what is going on with your home, so here are some pests to keep an eye out for this winter.
Some Pests Seek Seasonal Refuge in Your Home
Some bugs are pretty common in your home, and you are probably used to encountering them every once in a while. As a result, it’s probably no surprise if you see pests such as spiders and cockroaches turn up this winter.
While every critter has its place in the ecosystem, there are many reasons why you might prefer that that place not be your home. For example, spiders are not useless; in fact, they eat other insects which can help limit the number of pests in your home. Since some pests such as fleas, mosquitos, and bed bugs can cause harm to humans, having spiders around can help reduce any population of these bugs in your home.
On the other hand, spiders can bite, are commonly feared, and create messes. If you have a fear of spiders, then that concern might cause undo stress and anxiety. Also, spiders spin webs in various places in your home making cleaning a constant chore. Ultimately, if the spiders aren’t venomous, they shouldn’t cause much harm, but you might prefer to not have them around for personal comfort.
Watch Out for Critters Indoors
Other common winter pests include rodents such as mice and rats. These rodents cause more harm than good and can multiply quickly. With the cold weather upon us, mice and rats will seek a warm place to build a nest; if there is food there, then it is even better. Mice can cause harm in a couple of ways. First, a rodent infestation can have health risks associated. For example, they can carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses. As they move throughout your home, they can spread these diseases through their waste.
Since mice are small and nimble, they can easily contaminate your kitchen and other commonly touched surfaces. Second, as they move through your home, they can cause damage by chewing on furniture, food packages, and more. If you suspect you have rodents in your home, acting quickly is in your best interest.
The best way to avoid winter pests is to ensure that your home is well-sealed and to address anything that might be cause for concern. Replace any loose materials around your home’s foundation and windows, seal cracks and holes, eliminate moisture areas that can weaken your home and attract pests, and keep your home tidy and organized.
