Winter Pest Control 101: What Homeowners Should Expect

Winter is here, which means frosty weather, longer nights and, yes, pests seeking refuge in your home. Many critters are attracted to warmth, which makes houses a natural shelter for them. Combine this with the fact that Australia boasts incredible biodiversity, and it’s not surprising that winter is a particularly busy time for pest control businesses.

If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the different kinds of pests you can expect during the colder months. You should also equip yourself with the knowledge of how to get rid of these invasive animals when facing an infestation. In this article, we’ll walk you through what sorts of pests you can expect in winter and what you can do to deal with them.

Termites

A termite infestation is often a terrifying prospect for homeowners, and no wonder: termites are some of the most destructive pests around. Once they establish a presence in your house, they can quickly devour your wooden fixtures. They also stay active in the colder months, so it’s vital to get a winter termite inspection as soon as you spot the first signs of an infestation.

You can usually tell that there are termites in your house through the presence of termite waste, mud tubes and damaged wooden fixtures. Hollow-sounding wood is another telltale sign of a termite infestation. If you don’t take action immediately, these more subtle signs can quickly turn into heavily damaged flooring, walls and furniture.

If you suspect the presence of termites at home, it’s vital to call pest control immediately. A pest control professional will use methods like fumigation, termite traps and termiticide to clear the infestation. Once the pesky termites are gone, call a handyman immediately to repair any damage they might have caused. Time is of the essence when you’re dealing with termites, so make sure to get professional aid as quickly as possible.

Rodents

Like many other pests, rodents like rats and mice are attracted to warm places. This means that they can often be found in people’s homes during the colder months. Once they find their way into your house, they can damage items like electrical wires by gnawing on them, spread diseases like leptospirosis and devour your food.

Old TV shows will tell you that owning a cat is the best way to deal with a rodent infestation. While cats will hunt rats and mice, it’s best not to leave pest control to your pets. Rodent bites can cause injury to your pets. Not to mention, exposure to these pests may also lead to your furry friends being infected with a wide range of diseases.

While you can set up some rodent traps on your own, it’s always best to leave pest control to the professionals. Many rodent baits are poisonous and can pose a real danger to your pets. A professional exterminator will take safety measures to ensure that the rodents in your house are dealt with safely and effectively.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches might be more active in the warmer months, but that doesn’t mean winter gives you a break. In fact, as temperatures drop, these resilient pests are even more likely to seek out the warmth and food sources your home provides. Kitchens, laundries and bathrooms are prime targets (anywhere with moisture and crumbs can attract them).

Cockroaches aren’t just unpleasant to look at; they also pose serious health risks. They’re known to spread bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli and can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children. If you spot one, there are likely more hiding nearby, as they tend to stay out of sight until their numbers grow.

To reduce your risk, keep food sealed, wipe down surfaces regularly, and fix any leaks or damp areas. If cockroaches persist, call a pest control specialist. They’ll identify entry points, apply targeted treatments, and help you keep your home cockroach-free through the colder months.

Silverfish

Silverfish are wingless insects that are often found in Aussie homes. They’re attracted to damp, dark places, so it’s not uncommon to spot these creepy crawlies in harder-to-reach parts of your house, like the back of your toilet or under kitchen fixtures.

Since humidity is a big factor that leads to silverfish infestations, your focus should be on getting rid of still water and reducing the overall moisture at home. If you have leaky appliances, make an appointment with a plumber as soon as possible to resolve the issue. If moisture is a general problem where you live, consider investing in a dehumidifier.

While silverfish are generally harmless to humans, they do feed on wallpapers, clothing, paper, books and other similar objects. Address silverfish infestations immediately to prevent damage to your property.

Spiders

Australia is home to a wide variety of spiders, including funnel-web spiders, huntsman spiders, white-tailed spiders and wolf spiders. While many spider species are harmless, some spider species’ bites can be harmful and, in the worst cases, fatal to human beings.

It’s crucial to be aware of which spiders pose a danger to you and your family. In Australia, two species to watch out for are the Sydney funnel-web spider and the redback spider. Their bites can be lethal, so seek medical attention immediately if you’re bitten.

You can prevent spiders from entering your home in the first place by sealing small entrances and regularly cleaning your house. If there is already a spider infestation present, get rid of any webs you see and use a brush or vacuum cleaner to safely remove spiders. We also suggest calling pest control if you’re facing a particularly serious infestation. When it comes to potentially dangerous animals like spiders, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Possums

Not all winter pests are tiny. In fact, one of the larger intruders you might encounter is the humble possum. These nocturnal marsupials often sneak into roof cavities or wall spaces in search of a warm, dry place to nest, and once they’ve moved in, they’re not quiet about it. Scratching, thumping and even vocal screeching can keep you up at night.

While possums are protected native animals in Australia and can’t be harmed, their presence in your home can still be a serious nuisance. They can damage insulation, chew wiring, and leave behind unpleasant droppings and urine.

If you suspect a possum has taken up residence in your roof, it’s best to call in a licensed wildlife professional. They can safely and legally remove the animal and advise on sealing entry points to prevent re-entry. Remember, DIY solutions aren’t just ineffective; they may also be illegal.

Winter Pest Protection Starts with Preparation

Since time immemorial, pests have been a problem for Australian homeowners. Infestations can happen throughout the year, but the type of pest you get often depends on the time of year. In winter, some of the most common critters that find their way into Aussie homes include termites, rodents, silverfish and spiders.

No matter what kind of pest you’re dealing with, early detection and treatment are crucial in order to prevent long-term damage to your house or health issues among those who live in it. Once you spot the first signs of an infestation, make an appointment with a qualified pest control expert to get rid of the problem.

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