As the beautiful fall season settles over Albany and the Capital Region, it brings more than just cooler weather and vibrant leaves. It also marks the time when many pests, from rodents to insects, seek warm shelter for winter—often inside homes. Here’s how to protect your property from common cold-weather invaders before temperatures dip.

Which Pests Are Most Common in Albany During Winter?

In the Capital Region, both wildlife and insects are known to invade homes as temperatures drop. Here’s what to watch for:

Wildlife to Look Out For

• Raccoons: Active during warmer months, raccoons often seek shelter around homes in the fall, making basements, sheds, and attics their winter dens.
• Skunks: Look for burrowing signs near decks, porches, and foundations as skunks dig for warmth.
• Squirrels: These critters nest in attics, garages, and sheds during winter hibernation.
• Bats: Bats prefer dark, warm spaces like attics and basements for winter hibernation.
• Mice and Rats: These pests are known for squeezing through tiny entry points and can quickly infest your home in search of warmth and food.

Insects That Invade Homes in Winter

• Cockroaches: Cockroaches seek warmth and moisture indoors, hiding in dark spaces like cabinets, pipes, and appliances.
• Carpenter Ants: If they’re already established in your home, carpenter ants will continue to cause damage throughout winter.
• Spiders: Many spiders live indoors year-round, feeding on other insects. Their presence often indicates a more significant pest issue.

Understanding these common winter pests lets you know what to expect and how best to protect your Albany home.

Signs That Pests Are in Your Home

Pests leave clues that can signal an infestation. Here are the most common signs:

• Sounds: Scratching, rustling, or squeaking from attics, basements, or walls are common signs of a wildlife invasion.
• Droppings and Waste: Insects may leave behind molted skins or dead bugs, while wildlife may leave droppings or urine stains.
• Damage: Look for gnaw marks, burrows, or damaged wood, walls, and wiring—these signs are widespread with rodents and carpenter ants.

Recognizing these signs early can help you take prompt action to prevent a full-blown infestation.

How to Pest-Proof Your Albany Home

Although DIY pest-proofing is not a guarantee, taking these steps can significantly reduce the risk of winter pests:

Seal Entry Points

• Inspect for Cracks and Holes: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. For larger openings, consider screening.
• Install Door Sweeps: Use door sweeps to close gaps under doors where pests might enter.

Remove Attractants

• Keep Your Kitchen Tidy: Food crumbs and spills attract pests, so keeping surfaces clean is essential.
• Eliminate Moisture: Repair any leaks, especially in basements or attics, to remove moisture sources that attract pests.

These preventive steps can help keep your home pest-free during the colder months.

When to Call a Professional for Winter Pest Protection

If you’re concerned that pests will find their way inside despite your efforts, a professional pest control service can help. Thomas Pest Services offers comprehensive winter pest protection, including pest-resistant insulation, repairs to vulnerable areas, and our Complete Care Plan with exterior treatments to protect your home.

Call us today at 518-861-4921 or contact us for a free inspection and customized prevention plan. Our expertise, backed by three generations of experience, ensures your home remains safe from winter pests, giving you peace of mind all season.