As winter hits the UK, the cold sends many pests scurrying for warmth and our homes become a prime target for unwanted visitors.
Knowing which pests are most common in the winter months is key for homeowners and businesses alike, as prevention is better than cure when it comes to infestations and damage.
At The Pest Company, we know being proactive is key. Winter can be tough and by identifying and dealing with pest issues early we can help protect your property from all the problems that come with winter pests.
This blog will look at 5 of the most common pests you’ll see this winter and how to manage them.
1. Rats
Rats are notorious for getting into homes and businesses, especially in the winter when it’s cold. The most common species in the UK, the brown rat, likes to hide in basements, attics and other hidden areas where they can nest and breed.
They can squeeze through tiny gaps so make sure to check regularly for any entry points around your property. Rats also often enter properties through faults in the surrounding drains.
If you know what to look for a rat infestation can be easy to spot. Signs include droppings, scratching sounds from inside lofts and walls and gnaw marks on food packaging.
If you suspect a rat problem you need to act fast, as they can breed quickly and become a bigger problem.
2. Mice
Mice like rats seek warmth in the winter so homes and businesses are particularly attractive.
House Mice and Field Mice are the most common species in the UK and they enter properties through tiny openings. Mice can breed quickly so an initial sighting may be the start of a bigger problem.
Signs of a mouse infestation include droppings, chewed packaging and strange noises coming from walls or ceilings. They can also damage electrical wires and insulation which can be a fire hazard.
Being aware and dealing with any mouse signs quickly can help reduce the risks of these unwanted visitors.
3. Squirrels
Grey squirrels are active all year round, but they can often enter homes in the winter to escape the cold. They can cause significant damage by gnawing on wood, wires and insulation as they nest in attics and loft spaces.
Squirrels are attracted to properties with easy access to food so bird feeders and unsealed bins are common attractants.
Signs of squirrel activity include noises in the attic, droppings and damage to exterior features like soffits and eaves.
If you find squirrels on your property you need to act fast to stop further damage.
Implementing preventative measures like sealing entry possible entry points and removing food sources can help deter these nimble pests from moving in. But remember not to block any entry points they may be using already. Squirrels that are blocked in or out can cause a lot of damage creating new holes.
4. Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are another pest that can be a problem as we get closer to winter. As the temperatures drop, they seek shelter in our homes, usually in loft spaces, walls and other hidden areas. You can often see them coming into rooms collecting around sunny windows.
They spend most of their lifecycle outside, but move into buildings to avoid freezing over winter. They then move out in spring time to repeat the cycle.
Recognising the signs of a cluster fly infestation – small black flies collecting around windows and in loft spaces – can help you deal with the problem before it gets out of hand.
If you suspect you have a cluster fly problem you need professional help to manage it.
Prevention Tips
Preventing winter pest infestations starts with being proactive about your home and business maintenance. One of the best ways to do this is to seal any gaps or cracks in your property’s exterior before pests find their way in.
This means checking windows, doors and the foundation for openings. Installing door sweeps and using weather stripping can help block entry points.
Another key prevention strategy is proper food storage. Storing food in airtight containers can reduce the attraction to pests like rodents and cockroaches.
Keeping your home clean and clutter-free will eliminate hiding places for pests and you’ll be able to spot any signs of infestation sooner.
Conclusion
Winter is a tough season for pest control with all sorts of pests looking for warmth and shelter in our homes.
By knowing the most common winter pests and their habits, homeowners can prevent infestations and protect their property.
The sooner you spot the signs the better.
The Pest Company know how daunting winter pests can be. So stay aware and call us if you need to. If you see any of the pests in this blog get in touch.
