We aren't the only ones avoiding the harsh elements of winter in Rhode Island - seasonal pests can set up shop in your home, waiting for spring.

After spending the majority of the year fighting off ants, mosquitoes, ticks, bees, and the like, many homeowners look forward to winter as a reprieve from pest activity. Unfortunately though, winter can simply bring on different critters: seasonal pests that overwinter in warm homes until the weather turns. Here’s a little information about seasonal pests in Rhode Island.

Common seasonal pests in Rhode Island and New England include crickets, pill bugs, stink bugs, and boxelder bugs. These are generally not harmful to people, pets, or structures, but some can damage belongings like fabrics and paper materials, and are overall just a nuisance.

Seasonal pests begin seeking shelter from winter elements when temperatures start to drop. Ideal choices include underneath tree bark or inside hollow trees, but they will choose any warm crevice they can find. Occasionally, while assessing their options, one may wander to your home and decide the space under your siding looks cozy enough, eventually winding up in your attic to wait for spring. A seasonal pest may let themselves in through a loose window screen or an open door, unnoticed, and choose to hunker down.

These pests don’t necessarily want to be in your house. For the most part, they much prefer to be outdoors where their preferred food sources and surroundings are abundant. In fact, you may never even notice these interlopers until the first signs of spring, when they “wake up” and begin looking to exit your home.

All this being said, New England winters can be hard enough without sharing your space with unwelcome guests. If seasonal pests are overstaying their welcome or inviting all their friends into your home, Rhode Island Pest can help. Call us today to have one of our seasoned professionals inspect your home and give a free estimate.