Winter In Maine Doesn’t Stop The Pests
It’s official, it’s winter in Maine. Christmas has come and gone, we’ve seen measurable snow on the ground, and it’s been cold! So cold you might wonder how insects and rodents are surviving outside. While some insects have built in systems that allow them to “hibernate”, others take advantage of their close proximity to people and actually spend their winters safe and warm INSIDE homes. Here is a quick rundown of a few of the Maine pests we often find in homes this time of year.
Mice
This one is probably a no-brainer for you. Mice have always been a problem for Maine homeowners and unless your home is as fortified as Fort Knox (the one in Kentucky, not Bucksport), there’s a good chance you might find yourself sharing it with mice and other rodents. Plus, they’ll raid your kitchen for food and use your attic, walls, and other areas of your home as their nursery and bathroom.
Cockroaches
Maine homes provide both food, water, and shelter – everything German roaches need to survive. That’s especially true during the winter months when conditions outside don’t favor these vile yet resilient pests. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and other parts of the home that have moisture present are likely places to find cockroaches lurking about.
Wildlife
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to find raccoons and squirrels moving into attics and wall voids once winter hits New England. Our homes make cozy digs for wild animals that would prefer to endure winter safe, secure, and warm. Wildlife often take advantage of soffits, vents, and openings where eave meets roof and once inside, you’re likely to hear bumps, thumps, and other strange noises overhead.
Are these winter pests dangerous?
Rodents and wildlife have the potential to introduce into the home health risks, including, but not limited to:
Leptospirosis
Salmonellosis
Rabies
Giardiasis
Parasites including roundworm, lice, and fleas
German cockroaches carry viruses, bacteria, and parasites on their bodies and their feces, saliva, eggs, and shed skins can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
Rodents and wildlife are also capable of destroying property, including:
Tearing or contaminating insulation
Chewing through electrical wiring
Damaging heating and cooling ducts
Roof and gutter damage
How to keep pests out of your home this winter
Though we’re already a few weeks or so into the winter season, there’s still time to pest-proof your home against nuisance and potentially hazardous insects, rodents, and wildlife. To make your home less appealing to these home invaders, we recommend the following tips:
Fill small holes, gaps, and other openings with caulking and steel mesh.
Replace shingles and repair holes along the roofline.
Remove tree branches that are touching the roof or the sides of the house.
Eliminate potential food sources around your property.
Keep outdoor trash cans covered with lids that can be secured in place.
The best way to eliminate nuisance and destructive pests in central and coastal Maine
Whether you’re looking for assistance in getting rid of insects, rodents, or wildlife, Advanced Pest Solutions is here to help. Our locally owned and operated pest control company offers highly effective pest control and wildlife control services in Augusta, Winthrop, and Lewiston as well as throughout our service area. Our team of experts have the tools and industry experience needed to handle Maine’s pest problems. Contact us today!