Common Winter Pests in Hudson Valley Homes

Mice and rats

Rodents are the dominant winter complaint. Animals that entered in the fall are now established in wall voids, attics and basements, and their populations continue to grow indoors. Scratching sounds at night, droppings in cabinets and gnawed packaging are the usual evidence.

Cockroaches

German cockroaches are unaffected by outdoor cold because they live entirely indoors, in the warm, humid spaces behind appliances and under sinks. Larger species may move in from basements, drains and sump areas.

Overwintering insects

Brown marmorated stink bugs, cluster flies, boxelder bugs and lady beetles enter in the fall and settle into attics and wall voids. On unusually warm winter days they become active and appear at windows and ceiling lights, which is often the first time a homeowner realizes how many are inside.

Spiders and wildlife

Basement and garage spiders remain active all winter wherever there is prey. Squirrels begin looking for attic denning space in late winter, and their activity is usually loud enough to be unmistakable during daylight hours.

What helps

• Seal utility penetrations, door sweeps and vent screening.
• Keep pantry goods and pet food in sealed hard containers.
• Reduce basement and crawlspace moisture.
• Address attic noise early — winter damage to insulation and wiring adds up.