People often think that pests are less of a problem during the winter months. While we’re unlikely to see wasps flying around or ants crawling over our food, pests are still an issue at this time of year for a number of reasons.
Firstly, there are several troublesome creatures which are still active during the colder months. Secondly, it’s not uncommon for pests to make their way into our homes during the autumn and then hibernate in a quiet corner until spring.
Below we highlight common winter pest problems so you know what to look out for.
Moles
Moles are a nuisance for any gardener. As well as destroying your beautiful lawn and flowerbeds, they don’t hibernate and are therefore active all year round.
You’re more likely to notice moles in winter due to the fact that they work closer to the surface at this time of year. Prokill uses licensed fumigants in accordance to CRRU regulations to effectively control outbreaks.
Think you might have a mole infestation? Here are the signs to look out for and what you can do about it.
Squirrels
While many of us enjoy seeing squirrels while we’re out walking, they can be a nuisance because they like to build nests in warm places such as lofts and chimneys. When they gain access to your house, they can then chew through water pipes and electric cables, causing significant damage and potentially even fires.
There are two types of squirrel in the UK – the native red squirrel and the grey squirrel. Neither hibernate during winter because they don’t have the capacity to store the energy they would need to do so.
Find out what the signs of a squirrel infestation are and how to eradicate the problem quickly and effectively.
Foxes
Not only do you get foxes in winter, they’re at their most vocal at this time of year. While their loud screams can be alarming, they’re simply making these noises because it’s their mating season.
As well as hearing them, you’re also more likely to see a fox during winter because they become braver as they struggle to find their own food. They’re more likely to head to urban areas during the colder months as they search for food and shelter. These creatures are particularly drawn to gardens, compost heaps, bird tables and garden buildings. Find out more about foxes and how to prevent them making your home theirs.
Rabbits
Rabbits are active all year-round and you’re actually more likely to notice them during winter. Like most other creatures at this time, they’re in desperate search of food as supplies become increasingly scarce in nature.
If you have a nice food supply in your garden, rabbits are likely to make themselves at home. They will also be on the lookout for somewhere warm, dry and safe to shelter so you may spot them hiding under thick bushes and trees, by solid fences and anything else potential predators can’t see through.
Find out more about rabbits and how to prevent an infestation.
Rodents
Rats and mice are unfortunately a common winter pest. It’s cold outside which means that their food supply is drying up and they want to head inside where it’s warm and there’s plenty for them to eat.
Although they’re often portrayed as brazen animals, rodents will generally try to avoid human contact. You’re most likely to find them hidden in dark, undisturbed places such as the loft, garage, shed, under floorboards, inside walls and underneath furniture or inside cupboards that aren’t used very often.
Rats and mice can be very destructive and their numbers multiply rapidly so it’s important to deal with infestations quickly.
If you’re concerned that you may have a winter pest infestation, please don’t hesitate to contact us for your free, no obligation quote.
Leave a Reply