It’s hard enough to deal with a temporary pest infestation, but many Central Texas homeowners have to face pests that invade and annoy all year long. Unfortunately, the mild climate and rich biodiversity of this region creates a welcoming environment for many household and yard pests that don’t need to hibernate or die off during cool or dry periods. Fortunately, dealing with year-round pests isn’t much different from dealing with seasonal pests. We’ve identified some of the most common year-round pests below.
Plus-Size Rodents: Brown Rats
There are several different types of “objectionable” rodents. Among the most common—and most off-putting—is the brown rat. With characteristic brown fur and beady eyes, the brown rat can grow to more than a foot in length. In the relatively warm climate of Central Texas, these creatures don’t hibernate or go dormant. Early signs of an infestation may include scratching or squealing within your walls, basement crevices or crawlspaces. Since rats tend to spend more time indoors during the cool months, late fall and winter may be a good time to spot them.
Small Rodents: House Mice
While house mice are much smaller than brown rats, they can be just as tiresome. Mice may persist in fearsome concentrations within residential or commercial structures, and their droppings pose a serious health risk. Since they’re smaller and faster than brown rats, mice can also be far more elusive. Look for signs that unsealed human or pet food has been eaten. If you have a carnivorous house pet, you may also notice mice carcasses in inconvenient places.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches prefer damp, moist environments, but they can survive in sheltered areas through most Central Texas winters. When the weather turns cold, they’ll retreat into warmer crevices and emerge only to forage for food. While this sounds like a nice arrangement, cockroaches that normally live in cool basements may choose to venture into warm upstairs environments for the duration of the cool season.
Biting Spiders
Indoor spiders don’t care what season it is. Poisonous varieties like the brown recluse and black widow can set up shop in protected, little-used areas like window sills and attics. If you’re doing a little early-spring cleaning in these places, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. Additionally, breeding spiders’ egg sacs can burst at any time of year and shower your indoor spaces with annoying baby arachnids.
Handling Pests and Rodents in Bryan-College Station
While the same eradication measures might work equally well for year-round and seasonal pests, all-season pests pose special challenges. If you need a little extra guidance or support as you fight against indoor rodents and insects, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the pest control team at ABC Home & Commercial Services of Bryan-College Station. You can also request a free estimate.