Winter Pests to Watch for in the Boise Area

Winter brings relief from many of the common household pests that flourish during the warmer months of the year. Ants, mosquitoes, and wasps may be out, but there is another batch of critters itching to get into your house. If you live in the Boise area, these are the three most important pests to watch for over the winter and what you can do to prevent them.

Rodents

By far the most troublesome pests during the winter in our area are rats and mice. Rodents seek out food, water, and a warm place to spend the winter, so our homes are ideal. Not only can rodents cause damage to wires and wood, but rodents can also spread dangerous diseases. Exclusion and sanitation efforts are key in preventing rodents. Start by ensuring that the exterior of your home is completely sealed. All cracks, gaps, and holes in the foundation or walls should be sealed using caulk or expandable spray foam. Next, check that doors and windows close securely. Add weatherstripping or door sweeps to help. Once you have your home sealed, work on the sanitation part of things. Sweep, vacuum, and clean regularly, take out the trash often, store food properly, and eliminate excess moisture.

Spiders

Spiders can also be problematic during the winter. They live in dark corners, closets, storage rooms, and other undisturbed areas. While most spiders are harmless, some, like the black widow, can inflict painful and sometimes dangerous bites. Tips to prevent spiders include: decluttering your home, vacuuming often, sealing the exterior, and de-webbing regularly.

Earwigs

Another pest that often makes an appearance during the winter is the earwig. While earwigs are considered harmless, they can be a major nuisance and may bite on occasion. Earwigs like moist areas, so bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens are prime areas for an infestation. To help control earwigs around your home and yard get rid of excess moisture by fixing leaky pipes and faucets, remove harborages and clutter, and secure all possible entry points.

Boise Pest Control

Household pests can be a year-round problem, but regular pest control treatments can keep your home safe and pest-free. When you look for a pest control company, choose a top rated local company that knows the specific pest problems in your area and has deep ties to the community. In the Nampa, Kuna, and Boise area, that company is Averse Pest Control. With an emphasis on outstanding service, safety, and customer satisfaction, Averse is your preferred local Boise pest control specialist. Contact us today to get started.