Winterization Tips:

Your Home from Winter Pests in Northern California

When the temperatures drop, pests like rodents, spiders, and silverfish start seeking warmth inside homes and businesses. Winter in Northern California may bring cooler weather, but it also creates the perfect conditions for pests to invade. Shelby’s Pest Control is here to help you stay pest-free all season long with expert prevention tips and solutions. As winter weather sets in, colder temperatures drive pests indoors in search of warmth. Stay updated on local weather patterns with resources like the National Weather Service to anticipate pest activity.

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What Pests Cause Problems During Winter?

Winter pests don’t take the season off. Instead, they move indoors to find food, warmth, and shelter. Here’s a closer look at the most common pests that disrupt homes and businesses in Chico, Redding, and surrounding areas.

Mice and rats

Where They Hide: Basements, attics, crawl spaces, and behind walls.
Signs of Infestation:
- Droppings near food storage or along walls.
- Scratching noises at night.
- Gnawed wires, insulation, or furniture.
Why They’re Dangerous:
Rodents are not just a nuisance; they’re a hazard. Rodents cause over $20 billion in property damage annually in the United States, chewing through wiring and insulation. Additionally, they spread diseases like salmonella and hantavirus, contaminating food and threatening your health.

Spiders

Where They Hide: Dark, secluded areas such as basements, closets, and under furniture.
Signs of Infestation:
- Cobwebs in corners or near windows.
- Visible spiders moving indoors.
Why They’re Dangerous:
While most spiders are harmless, venomous species like black widows and brown recluses can pose serious health risks. Studies show that spider bites lead to thousands of emergency room visits annually, emphasizing the importance of professional pest control.

Box Elder Bugs

Where They Hide: Warm, sunny surfaces near windows, doorframes, or inside walls.
Signs of Infestation:
- Groups of bugs near windows or entry points.
- Staining on walls, curtains, or furniture from their secretions.
Why They’re Dangerous:
While box elder bugs are not harmful to humans, they can attract predators like spiders and other pests into your home that feed on them. Their secretions can also stain walls and fabrics, creating additional cleaning headaches.
Over 50% of homeowners who experience a box elder infestation report seeing secondary pest activity within 30 days. Professional pest control services can break this cycle and prevent recurring problems.

Silverfish

Where They Hide: Damp, dark areas like bathrooms, basements, and storage spaces.
Signs of Infestation:
- Damage to paper, fabrics, or food packaging.
- Small, silver-colored insects moving quickly in dark corners.
Why They’re Dangerous:
Silverfish are incredibly resilient, surviving in tough environments. According to pest studies, silverfish infestations can grow unnoticed for months, causing hidden damage to stored goods, books, and documents.

How to Winterize Your Home and Prevent Pests

Preventing pests during winter is easier than dealing with an infestation. Follow these actionable steps to protect your property:

Seal Cracks and Openings:
- Inspect your home for gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines. Seal them with caulk or steel wool.For detailed pest prevention strategies, refer to the EPA Winter Pest Control Tips.
Store Food Securely:
- Keep food in airtight containers, and clean up crumbs and spills promptly.
Eliminate Moisture:
- Fix leaky pipes and ensure proper ventilation in damp areas like basements.
Declutter:
- Remove piles of cardboard, old newspapers, or clutter where pests may hide.
Schedule a Professional Inspection:
- Early detection can prevent infestations from getting out of hand.
  90% of pest problems are preventable with regular inspections and maintenance, according to pest control experts.

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Protect your home from rodents and spiders this winter with our expert tips

What’s Inside the Guide? Winterization checklists. Expert insights on pest prevention. Simple steps to protect your property.

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Why Choose Shelby’s Pest Control?

When it comes to protecting your home or business from winter pests, Shelby’s Pest Control is your trusted partner in Northern California. Here’s why homeowners and businesses choose us:

70+ Years of Experience: Proven expertise you can rely on.
Eco-Friendly, Pet-Safe Treatments: Safe solutions for your family, pets, and customers.
Local Experts: Serving Chico, Redding, and surrounding areas with tailored pest solutions.

FAQs About Winter Pests

How do I know if I have rodents in my home?

Look for droppings, gnawed materials, and scratching noises in walls or ceilings.

Are pest control treatments safe for pets and children?

Yes, Shelby’s Pest Control uses eco-friendly and pet-safe products.

What should I do if I see spiders or silverfish in my home?

Call Shelby’s Pest Control for an inspection and treatment to address the problem quickly.

Can I prevent pests without professional help?

While DIY steps like sealing cracks and cleaning help, professional inspections ensure pests are fully eradicated.

Why do pests invade homes during winter?

Colder weather drives pests indoors to find warmth, food, and shelter.

How often should I schedule pest control services?

It’s recommended to have professional inspections at least once a year, especially before winter, to prevent infestations.

Don’t Let Winter Pests Take Over

This winter, don’t let pests invade your space. With Shelby’s Pest Control, you can enjoy a pest-free home or business all season long.