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Many homeowners think that winter pest control is a waste of time and money. Absolutely not! 

You may not have mosquitoes buzzing all around you during the cold months. But there are several other pests and bug species in Maine that are still quite active in this season. In fact, many of them are searching for warm places with food supplies. This means you are more likely to experience a pest infestation if you do not take proper precautions on time. 

As a provider of professional pest control services in Maine, we are committed to saving homeowners from the stress and damages that these invaders can cause. Therefore, we have rounded up this list of common winter pests that you need to stay cautious of.

5 Pests That Are Out in the Winter in Maine

1. House Mice

One of the most active creatures during this season is the house mouse. It shouldn’t be too surprising if you frequently encounter this rodent in and around your house. House mice prefer living in dark and secluded areas. So, you are likely to find them hiding in your attic or basement. 

House mice can cause severe property damage as they tend to chew through drywall. They also like to nibble on the insulated wires, which can increase the risk of an electrical fire in your home. 

As if that doesn’t make these rodents dangerous enough, house mice are carriers of potentially fatal diseases. They contaminate food supplies and spread infections such as Salmonella and Hantavirus.

2. Norway Rats

Norway rats are often referred to as street or sewer rats. This species of rats originates from Asia but has naturalized in various countries worldwide, including the US. While they do indeed live in sewerage lines, Norway rats can find a way into your home to escape the freezing temperatures. They can easily fit in openings less than ½ inch in diameter. That is almost the size of a quarter. In other words, even minor cracks and gaps in your outer walls can be a large open gateway for these rats.

Norway rats are notorious for gnawing at drywalls, plastic pipes, and electric wires find their way to food and water sources. Additionally, they expose people to a wide spread of viruses and disease-causing bacteria. Homeowners with Norway rat infestations often suffer from jaundice, salmonellosis (stomach infection), rat-bite fever, and plague-like symptoms.

3. Moths

Scientists have found nearly 160,000 species of moths in different parts across the world. Fortunately, Maine is known to have only about 400 or less. Nonetheless, that’s still a major concern. 

There are several household items that tend to be a big welcome sign for moths. For instance, meal moths are attracted to dry food items and thus, often hide in pantries and kitchen cabinets. Other species infest items like clothing and upholstery made of animal-based materials such as wool. 

They do not really cause any significant property damage, except occasionally eating through fabrics. However, some moth species like the giant silkworm and flannel moth can cause a painful sting.

4. Cockroaches

It is not unusual for Maine homeowners to find their place invaded by these nasty pests during the cold months. There are various species of cockroaches that can make your property their winter rental. However, the most common cockroach species in this part of the US is usually the German cockroach. 

German cockroaches are recognized by two prominent stripes on their light brown to tan bodies. Since they are drawn to damp, dark places, they mostly populate tight and hidden spots in bathrooms and kitchens. 

Depending on their species, cockroaches can enter your home via sewerage pipes or cracks and crevices in exterior walls. Take note that German cockroaches often hitchhike on grocery bags. Therefore, it’s a good practice to check your supplies before carrying them indoors.

5. Termites

Termites are predominantly a hot-weather pest. However, they still pose a huge hazard for homeowners as these creepy crawlers can reproduce even during the cold months. Being the social insects that they are, termites live in colonies and can therefore lead to significant property damage. They are particularly infamous for causing structural damages as they feed off wood walls, floors, and other furniture. 

Remember that at times, termite damage may seem somewhat similar to water damage. If you notice swollen floorboards and ceilings, or buckling wooden beams without any apparent sign of water leak, be on high alert of termite infestation.

One-Stop Solution for Maine Winter Pest Control 

We all know that Maine isn’t exactly paradise during winter. Pest infestation is probably the last thing you would want to deal with at a time when the harsh weather conditions pose enough problems on their own.

Don’t let small critters stir big trouble for you and your family. For a pest-free home, get in touch with Ants Plus Pest Control now. We are a fully licensed and insured pest control company serving Portland, Augusta, Lewiston, Brunswick, Biddeford, and surrounding areas. Click here for more info