Sometimes animals are grouped according to certain characteristics and given a name, like rodent, marsupial, or spider. While all spiders are arachnids, not all arachnids are spiders. The term "overwintering" refers to a process some animals go through to survive freezing winter temperatures. It often involves hiding deep in the ground or in a protected place above ground. It is usually accompanied by a reduction in metabolic rate to reduce energy consumption. The term "overwintering pest" refers to a type of animal that chooses man-made structures to hide in when temperatures drop.
There are many bugs and animals that will make themselves a pest when it gets too cold outside, but not all overwintering pests are considered equal. Some creatures that get in find out that living in your home is pretty sweet. If you have mice nibbling their way in, there is little chance they are going to leave when the temperatures go back up. Cockroaches that are driven into homes in fall are usually happy to stay. Man-made structures provide the perfect environment for these skittish creatures to sneak around without fear of being attacked by a flying predator.
Some overwintering pests can't survive in your home. It is only a temporary shelter to protect them from the cold. Crawly critters, like lady bugs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs, may come in, but they are happy to leave as soon as winter is over. They are not without their problems though. They can be a frustration when they first come in, as they are prone to crawling on things you probably would prefer they didn't. When they crawl on these items, they can stain them with their excrement. But, in most cases, it doesn't take them long to go into a low energy state. They may become still in curtains, or disappear entirely into your walls.
If you've seen overwintering pests in your home, but those pests have grown dormant, it is important to understand that there is a good chance those bugs are going to come back out again in spring. That is why it is important to get pest control now. Reduce springtime frustration and damage with help from Thomas Pest Services. Our educated professionals are trained in the most advanced pest protocols in the industry and have a solid track record of dealing with overwintering pests.
Whether you have the kind of overwintering pest that will stick around, or the kind that will bug out when spring arrives, Thomas Pest Services can help you protect your home, your belongings, and your family with a year-round pest control plan, give us a call today to see how we can help.