The Most Common Winter Pests in Arizona

No homeowner wants pests scampering around their home, irrespective of the time of the year.  It is a common misconception that with the drop in temperatures during the winter months, the pest activity also declines. However, several winter pests in Arizona invade homes as the weather starts to cool down. These pests are a severe threat to the home’s structure and the homeowner’s belongings and health. 

Though Arizona residents experience mild winters, the nights get cold enough for some pests to take refuge indoors, searching for warmer temperatures and food influx. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the regular summer and spring pest control schedule in winters too.

Let’s look at the most common winter pests in Arizona looking for refuge inside the home to beat the cold:

Spiders

Spiders are one of the most common winter pests that worry homeowners in the valley. They are most often found in well-hidden areas of the basement, attic, or garage. While several spiders are considered harmless, the black widow and the brown recluse—two spider species found in the state—are venomous. Webs and eggs are the prominent indicators of a spider lurking nearby.

Rodents

Though considered a year-round pest, rodents such as rats, mice, and squirrels are most likely to seek shelter and warmth in attics and other unused spaces during the winter. These are quite a nuisance as they can gnaw and damage objects around the house, make annoying noises, and carry pathogens that pose a health risk. They breed quickly, and their scents also attract other insects.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches, like rodents, multiply fast and lead to a severe infestation quickly. Cockroaches enter the home through damaged and leaky pipes and thrive in moisture-rich areas. Their nocturnal nature makes them tough to spot. They not only look repulsive but carry several bacteria that cause diseases. It is essential to get rid of them as soon as they are spotted in the home. 

Ant

There are fewer outdoor ant activities during winter, as the majority of them prefer to hibernate underground. An ant infestation might occur in the colder months when they seek shelter from the freezing temperatures and hunt for food and water. Call a pest control service if there is suspicion of large ant colonies in and around the home.

Termites

Termites are the most active during the winters in Arizona because of the relatively warm climatic conditions. Drywood and subterranean termites are the most common in the valley and thrive on wooden furniture and picture frames. They are resilient pests and can mate during the mild winter temperatures. Any sight of termites in the home warrant immediate action. 

Stink bugs

Warm cozy homes during winters are ideal for stink bug invasion. They are unlikely to harm the homeowner or damage the property but can be a reason for nasty odors around the home. They look hideous and can stain walls and curtains.

Hire a reliable pest control service in Arizona to get rid of these common winter pests.

San Tan Pest And Weed Control offer reliable pest control for residential and commercial customers in Mesa, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Lower Santan Village, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Gilbert, and Chandler. Our pest management services control scorpions, ants, termites, bees, wasps, fleas, rodents, cockroaches, weeds, and more. We provide attic and crawl space cleaning and home sealing services to keep pests out. Call us at (480)405-0690.