December Pests: How to Keep Your Home Pest-Free This Winter

As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, pests don’t just disappear—they adapt. December may be cold and frosty outside, but inside your home, pests continue to thrive in search of warmth, shelter, and food. Whether it’s rodents, insects, or other unwelcome critters, pest problems can escalate in the winter months. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the most common pests you might encounter during December and what you can do to prevent and deal with them.

1. Rodents: Mice and Rats

One of the most common pests in December are rodents, especially mice and rats. As the weather turns colder, they seek warmth inside homes, often finding their way into attics, basements, and kitchens. Rodents can cause significant damage by gnawing through wires, insulation, and even food packaging. They also carry diseases, making them a health risk.

Signs of a Rodent Infestation:

Droppings in food cupboards or along skirting boards
Noises such as scratching or squeaking, especially at night
Chewed wires, food packaging, or furniture
Foul smells from hidden nests or urine

Prevention Tips:

Seal cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors with caulk or steel wool.
Keep food stored in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills immediately.
Regularly check your loft, basement, and other hard-to-reach areas for signs of rodents.

2. Cluster Flies

Cluster flies are another common nuisance in winter. These flies are often found in loft spaces and attics, where they gather in large groups to hibernate during the colder months. While they don’t bite or spread diseases, they can be a real annoyance when they emerge from their hiding spots as the days start to warm up.

Signs of Cluster Flies:

Large groups of flies clustered around windows or light fixtures
A noticeable increase in fly activity on warmer days

Prevention Tips:

Install fine mesh screens on windows and vents to prevent flies from entering your home.
Ensure that all gaps around windows, doors, and rooflines are sealed.
If you notice a cluster fly infestation, use a vacuum cleaner to remove them.

3. Ants (Winter Ants)

While ants are typically a summer problem, certain species, such as the “winter ant,” can still cause problems in December. These ants may venture into your home searching for food or warmth, and although they are less active in winter, they can still be found in kitchens and pantries.

Signs of an Ant Infestation:

Small trails of ants around food or entry points
Ant nests in walls, under floors, or in other hidden areas

Prevention Tips:

Clean up food crumbs and spills promptly, especially during the winter months when ants are looking for a warm food source.
Seal cracks and entry points around doors and windows to prevent ants from entering.
If you find a nest, contact a pest control professional to eliminate it safely.

4. Squirrels

Squirrels may be adorable, but they can become a real problem in the colder months when they try to nest inside homes. They often enter through gaps in the roof or chimney and can cause significant damage to insulation, wiring, and even structural components.

Signs of a Squirrel Infestation:

Scratching or scurrying sounds in the attic or walls
Visible holes or gaps in the roof or eaves
Damage to insulation or stored items in your attic

Prevention Tips:

Block off any holes or gaps around the roofline, eaves, and vents to prevent squirrels from getting in.
Trim back tree branches that may provide access to your roof.
If you suspect a squirrel infestation, it’s essential to contact a professional pest controller to safely remove the animals.

Conclusion

As December brings colder weather, pests such as rodents, flies, and squirrels look for shelter inside our homes. Preventing infestations starts with vigilance—seal up entry points, keep your home clean, and take action quickly if you notice any signs of pest activity. While winter pests can be a nuisance, with the right preventative measures, you can keep your home safe and pest-free all season long. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep those pests outside where they belong!