It’s officially winter! But does that mean Alabama’s wildlife plan on hibernating? Chances are the answer is no. While you may see less activity, common local critters don’t usually hibernate through our chilly winters. So, read on to discover where pests go in the winter and how to keep them from nesting in your home.
Where do pests go in the winter?
Because winters are typically mild in Alabama, much of our wildlife continues scurrying throughout the season. Even so, could those unwanted pests see your home as a cozier and warmer living space for the season? Yes!
To best explain where pests go in the winter in Alabama, let’s break habitats—and habits—down by four of the most common pesky creatures you could encounter.
Raccoons
Indeed, raccoons don’t often sneak inside a home, but they will raid trash bins, gardens and other food sources, like your home, during trying months. Because raccoons can spread diseases, it’s important to look for clues alerting you to their presence.
And just because they prefer winter dens in the form of fallen trees, holes in trees or an abandoned burrow, doesn’t mean a raccoon won’t make your crawl space, attic or unused chimney their den.
Squirrels
Don’t expect squirrels’ behavior to change much in the winter. They remain active and keep busy hiding food in the ground, tricking other squirrels with fake food hideouts and running around your yard. If motivated by harsher weather or some other outside factor, squirrels could convert your shed, garage or attic into a winter den.
Bats
Bats, on the other hand, slow down their activity and try to find the coziest hiding spots available for the winter. Unfortunately, this can mean your home or business, including roosting in your attic or chimney. Bats could even move further into your home’s interior if the attic or chimney becomes unsuitable.
Rats and mice
Rats and mice usually move from their summer home to find something warmer and more secluded for the winter. This could mean digging and burrowing into the ground against a wall, fence or rock. It could also mean rats and mice look for entry points into your home and crawlspace to set up residence—or even your vehicle!
What can you do to help keep pests away?
Besides contacting the experts at Pesky Critters Wildlife Control, there are some actions you can take to help keep pests away from your home.
Clean up after family pets and don’t leave out extra food. Next, store garbage in sealed containers and dispose of it regularly. Trim bushes, plants and tree branches near your home since they can become nests or natural indoor entryways for pests. Reduce clutter in out-of-the-way spaces and high-traffic areas to eliminate potential shelter and food for pests.
Remember to store recycling receptacles away from the home and to check bags, boxes, grocery bags and other packages for signs of pests, including bugs.
Summary
Now you know where pests go in the winter in Alabama, even when the season tends to be mild. If you notice signs of pests or a pesky issue, call us at (334) 524-3403. Our safe catch-and-release removal services and construction sealing are here for you! Keep reading our blogs for more about wildlife pests.
