Common BC Winter Pests & How they Survive the Cold Weather

If your home is prone to infestation in the winter and your DIY pest removal techniques prove to be unsuccessful, turn to Pest Detective, Vancouver’s leading pest removal company. We can provide a thorough inspection and extermination services to protect you, your loved ones, and your property from dangerous or bothersome pests like rodents, insects, and other wildlife. We will effectively and safely remove any of the following common BC winter pests that may find refuge in your home this winter.

Norway/Brown Rats

The brown or Norway rat can cause significant damage to homes and commercial buildings, and pose serious health risks. They are larger in size, have semi-aquatic habits, shorter tails, and smaller eyes and ears. They are aggressive about getting into warm attics in the winter and can easily enter a building through a small hole, equivalent to the diameter of a quarter. They look for moist conditions and crawlspaces in the cold weather and can also be found in low-lying shrubbery, ditches, outbuildings and woodpiles.

Gray Squirrels
In the winter months gray squirrels typically nest in attics and other warm places in homes and outbuildings. They do not hibernate, as they have fairly constant body temperatures. When the cold weather sets in, they spend less time scavenging outside and more time taking shelter and keeping warm in their den with several other squirrels.

Fleas
Fleas cannot survive near-freezing temperatures for an extended period of time. They look for warm and/or insulated areas to lay their eggs and prepare for spring. They will seek warm-bodied hosts, such as dogs, cats and raccoons, or warm, sheltered areas like sheds, garages, or your home, to survive the cold weather. Adult fleas will live in their cocoon for up to five months; however, temperatures below 37.4°F (3°C) will kill pre-emerged fleas.

Ants 
An ant’s body temperature drops significantly in the winter, causing their movements to become sluggish. They seek out warm places, such as deep soil, under rocks or under the bark of trees to survive the cold weather. They huddle in clusters to stay warm, maintain body heat and protect their population’s lifeline. You may find ants near food sources, in moisture-prone areas, under appliances, behind window frames and beneath floors.

Cockroaches 
Cockroaches can infest any type of structure, including homes and commercial buildings. They carry disease and pathogens that cause allergic reactions. They are commonly found in warm, moist areas and survive the cold winter weather by hiding in walls, cracks, crevices, behind cabinets and appliances, and near water sources.

Contact Pest Detective today for pest control in Vancouver to protect your home from unwanted critters and insects. You can also schedule an appointment for a free estimate for the removal of your pest problem. We have many different locations throughout the Lower Mainland area for your convenience.