Pest control happens all year, not only when it’s hot outside, but when it’s freezing cold as well. While many pests are associated with warmer months, winter in Staten Island doesn’t mean an end to pest problems. As temperatures drop, certain pests seek shelter indoors to escape the cold, creating new challenges for homeowners.
There are many pests that are inactive in winter. For example, you are very unlikely to see mosquitoes. But there are many other pests that are highly active, and these pests will need someone to help provide prevention and support in the short and long term. Examples of winter pests include:
Rodents: Mice and Rats
Rodents are among the most common pests to watch for during the winter in Staten Island. As the weather cools, both mice and rats seek out warm, dry areas to nest, often entering homes through small cracks, gaps in walls, or around doors and windows.
You may notice droppings, gnawed food packaging, or scratching noises from walls or ceilings. Rodents can cause significant damage to insulation, wiring, and stored items.
Rodents carry diseases, such as hantavirus and salmonella, and can also trigger allergic reactions or asthma in sensitive individuals.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are resilient pests that can survive in a variety of conditions, including winter. They thrive in warm, humid environments and are likely to move indoors as outdoor temperatures drop. Common areas where cockroaches hide include kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.
Cockroaches can spread bacteria, contaminate food, and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma due to the allergens in their droppings and shed skin.
Cockroach sightings, droppings (small, dark, and pepper-like), or a musty odor can indicate an infestation. Their nocturnal behavior means you may only see them when you turn on lights at night.
Spiders
While spiders are generally less active during winter, some species, like the house spider, will move indoors in search of warmth. Spiders are typically more of a nuisance than a danger, though their presence can still be unsettling for homeowners.
Common indoor spiders in Staten Island include house spiders and cellar spiders (also known as daddy longlegs). Though most are harmless, Staten Island can also see occasional infestations of more concerning species, such as black widows, though these are rare.
Webs in corners, attics, basements, and other quiet areas can indicate the presence of spiders. Some may also be visible in dark, undisturbed places.
Silverfish
Silverfish are another common winter pest that thrives in cool, dark, and damp areas of the home. These small, wingless insects are often found in bathrooms, basements, or attics, where moisture is prevalent.
Silverfish can damage books, wallpaper, clothing, and stored food by chewing on starchy materials. They can also damage paper and fabric items in storage.
Sightings of small, silvery insects darting across the floor, especially in bathrooms or kitchens, often indicate a silverfish infestation.
Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are known to invade homes in large numbers during the winter months, seeking warmth and shelter. While they are harmless to humans, their presence can be bothersome, especially if they accumulate in large numbers.
Cluster flies tend to gather around windows, attics, or unused rooms during the winter. They move sluggishly and are often mistaken for houseflies, but they are larger and slower.
Cluster flies usually become noticeable when they gather around windows, particularly on sunny winter days. You may also find dead flies near windows or light fixtures.
Ants
Although ants are generally more active in warmer months, some species, such as pavement ants, can remain active indoors during winter. These ants often seek warmth and food, which may lead them to kitchens, pantries, or other areas with accessible food sources.
Trails of ants, especially near food or water sources, can indicate an infestation. Pavement ants are typically small and dark brown or black, often entering homes through cracks in foundations or gaps in window frames.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are year-round pests that do not slow down in the winter months, and maybe even become more common given how much travel people do during the holidays. They thrive in warm indoor environments and can quickly spread throughout homes. Bed bugs are often brought inside through luggage, secondhand furniture, or clothing.
Bed bug bites, tiny dark spots (their droppings), or seeing live bugs around mattress seams and bed frames can indicate an infestation. These pests are difficult to eradicate without professional help.
Prevention Tips for Winter Pests
To reduce the risk of winter pests entering your home, consider taking the following steps:
- Seal Entry Points – Close gaps around doors, windows, and foundation cracks to prevent rodents, ants, and other pests from entering your home.
- Maintain Cleanliness – Keep kitchens and pantries clean by wiping up spills, storing food in airtight containers, and disposing of garbage regularly.
- Reduce Moisture – Fix any leaks or damp areas in the home to discourage silverfish, cockroaches, and other moisture-loving pests.
- Store Firewood Away From Home – Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home to reduce the risk of attracting spiders, ants, or rodents.
- Install Screens and Weather Stripping – Ensure that vents, chimneys, and attic windows are properly screened and that doors and windows have adequate weather stripping.
Of course, you should also strongly consider professional pest control. Professional pest control is the best way to prevent pests all year, and make sure that your home remains pest free.
While winter in Staten Island may reduce outdoor pest activity, it also encourages various pests to seek warmth and shelter indoors. If you suspect a pest problem, professional pest control services can help identify and address infestations early before they escalate.