Now that the cold weather has descended on Boise, you can bet bugs and other pests are seeking refuge in your home as we speak. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your home from pests such as box elder bugs this winter. Having a trustworthy Boise exterminator in your corner is a great first step.
Check out the top three most common winter pests in McCall and surrounding areas this winter as well as how you can keep them from getting inside.
1. Ants
Ants are averse to being cold and wet, plus they get particularly hungry in the winter. This is why your kitchen and pantry make up their favorite spots in the house. Be sure to wipe up spills and crumbs right away and always do a complete nightly cleanup before heading to bed.
All it takes is a single ant to haul one crumb back to the nest. That’s because it leaves behind a scented trail that is picked up on by all other ants in the colony. They will follow the trail, and soon enough, you have a full-blown ant infestation on your hands.
2. Box Elder Bugs
Red and black in color, box elder bugs make for annoying houseguests. This winter is proving to be even more active than years past. One or two in your home may not seem like a big deal, but once they start multiplying, you need action from a Donnelly pest control technician.
These bugs like warm surfaces when the exterior temps dip. While technically just a harmless nuisance as they do not pose a big threat to humans, you still don’t want box elder bugs living amongst you and your family. Refrain from crushing them in a tissue or stepping on them. They will release stinky liquid that will attract other bugs and stain your floors and walls. Just vacuum them up and toss the sealed bag.
3. Spiders
The most common spiders in Boise include hobo spiders, wolf spiders, jumping spiders, black widows, brown recluse spiders, and cellar spiders. Like ants, spiders don’t like cold. They will enter your home seeking warm and cozy spots in far-off corners where they won’t be disturbed. Take these steps to spider-proof your Cascade home this winter:
- Seal any cracks
- Spray peppermint oil and water
- Spray vinegar and water on all crevices
- Rub citrus peels over your window sills
- Keep up with a regular cleaning routine (i.e., clearing cobwebs)
- Scatter cinnamon sticks (spiders don’t like the strong scent)
- Turn off the lights (spiders like bright lights)
- Seal your food tightly
- Take out the garbage every night
- Trim your landscaping
Contact Eco Pest Control
Have you spotted any of these common winter pests in the Boise area? Our Cascade ID exterminators can give you a free quote and schedule an inspection when you contact us at 208-600-8734.
