After being out in cold winter weather, your home is the perfect cozy spot. Unfortunately, many bugs agree and find your home inviting. Knowing what’s attracting winter pests to your house can help you prevent an infestation. We’ve made a list of five reasons why bugs have invaded your home this winter.
1. Shelter
The main reason bugs invade homes in winter is for shelter. Your house provides bugs with a warm and secluded place to hide. Pests, like boxelder bugs, stink bugs, cluster flies, and Asian lady beetles, overwinter in homes. These bugs start their planning for winter early. In fall, they gather on the sunny side of homes before slipping indoors.
2. Food & Moisture
While some pests only stop by in winter, others can hang out year-round. These pests enter homes searching for food and moisture. If they find crumbs or spills, chances are they won’t want to leave. Leaky pipes or damp areas in houses can also attract pests like cockroaches. Other pests, like bed bugs, live in homes because their food source—humans—is always available to them.
3. Infested Firewood
Having a fire going in the winter is great, but it could lead to a bug problem. Some pests, like beetles, live on firewood. When you bring the wood into your home, bugs could be carried inside too. Inspect wood before bringing it in and only carry in what you’re ready to use. This will help to prevent bugs from settling down in your home.
4. Infested Houseplants
As temperatures drop, many plants need to be brought indoors. Unfortunately, these plants may be carrying bugs. Aphids, gnats, earwigs, and mealybugs are known for infesting plants. If they make their way into your home, they can easily spread to other plants. Their presence can also lead to plant damage.
5. Infested Packages
There are other ways for bugs to sneak into your home. Pantry pests can be brought home in infested food packages from the store. They breed in your home, which can lead to large infestations. Other bugs, like cockroaches and silverfish, hide in cardboard boxes. When you get a delivery, these pests could be carried into your house.
It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you’re done dealing with bugs. These pests are excellent hiders and can easily slip into homes. If you’re dealing with a bug problem, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.