Are Overwintering Insects Hiding in Your La Crosse Home? Signs to Look For.

Changes in Wisconsin temperatures as we move into late fall and winter will result in pests looking for places to shelter and spend the colder months. Some unexpected places can include wall voids and cracks along the foundation, while basements and attics are pretty typical hiding spots. La Crosse, WI pest control from Mosquito Squad Plus of La Crosse can help homeowners respond to overwintering pests.

Why Do Pests Move Indoors Before Winter?

Overwintering pests are looking for protective spaces where the temperature remains steady, rather than experiencing wild temperature swings. Small openings around windows, vents, utility lines, and foundation edges can give pests access to the basement or crawl spaces. These are insulated locations that ideally retain heat and are less frequently disturbed by people.

Boxelder Bugs and Stink Bugs May Gather Before Moving Inside

Some of the more obvious pests seeking shelter are boxelder bugs and stink bugs. These are more noticeable in Wisconsin and gather on sun-warmed brick, stone, and siding in an effort to regulate temperature. As the sun sets and temperatures warm, you may notice them moving towards windows and doors, looking for gaps in weatherstripping or screens in order to get inside.

Stink bugs are more likely to attempt entry into the house, and if startled or disturbed, may release a foul odor into the air. They don't damage the house, but they can become a nuisance if they're gathered in large numbers.

Flies and Spiders Can Become More Noticeable

Typically thought of as a summer pest, some flies can overwinter in attics and wall voids, emerging when there are milder stretches of weather. Spiders may appear to be increasing in population, but they are moving to where they can find reliable food. As insects move inside, spiders may follow. Fresh webs, egg sacs, or repeated sightings can point to continued activity.

Signs La Crosse Homeowners Should Watch For

• Pests gathering around window frames
• Fresh webs in quiet corners
• Gnaw marks on cardboard boxes or shredded linen
• Clusters of spots beneath webs
• Shed material

Overwintering Insects and House Damage

Most overwintering pests are going to be nuisances, rather than dangerous or damage-inducing. Some pests like rodents may chew through insulation or cardboard, while spiders may continue to build webs in areas out of the way. Gnaw marks, shredded insulation, or damaged food packaging point more toward rodents.

Limiting Overwintering Pest Activity

Before cold weather settles in, inspect weather stripping, door sweeps, window screens, vents, siding transitions, and places where pipes or cables enter the house. Seal appropriate gaps, repair damaged screens, reduce clutter in garages and basements, and move firewood or debris away from the foundation.

La Crosse, WI Pest Control for Overwintering Pests

Repeated indoor sightings or clusters of pests around entry points can signal it is time to team up with Mosquito Squad Plus of La Crosse. Call (608) 514-9405 for a free quote over the phone or contact us online to discuss overwintering pest activity before colder weather settles in.