The short answer is no! While pest activity peaks during the summer months, Hollywood, Florida’s mild winters mean that many pests remain active year-round. Some pests slow down or hibernate, but others seek out warmth, food, and shelter in your home, making winter pest control just as important as in other seasons.
Here’s a closer look at the pests you might encounter during Florida’s winter months and how On Demand Pest Control can help protect your home.
Common Winter Pests in Hollywood, Florida
Cockroaches
Cockroaches thrive in warm, dark, and moist areas, making your home a perfect haven during winter. Favorite hiding spots include:
- Cardboard boxes in attics and garages
- Under refrigerators and inside appliances
- Out-of-reach kitchen cabinets
Cockroaches not only spread bacteria and germs but also shed skin and leave droppings, which can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children. Protect your home by addressing any roach activity promptly.
Silverfish
Silverfish may not be as well-known, but they can be just as damaging. These pests feed on paper, clothing, and other starchy materials, often causing damage to stored items. Silverfish are commonly found in:
- Attics and basements
- Damp areas near leaky faucets
- Stored boxes of clothes or papers
To keep silverfish at bay, repair leaks, and store valuables in airtight containers.
Termites
Termites don’t take a winter vacation—they simply dig deeper into the soil to regulate their body temperature. Subterranean termites, including the aggressive Formosan and Asian species, remain active throughout Florida winters, silently causing damage. Watch for:
- Mud tunnels along your home’s foundation
- Hollow wood or sagging floors
- Discarded wings near windowsills
Termites can cause extensive structural damage before you even realize they’re there. If you suspect termite activity, professional intervention is crucial.
Rodents
Rodents like mice and rats seek shelter indoors during cooler months. These nocturnal pests can:
- Squeeze through nickel-sized openings
- Nest in wall voids, attics, and basements
- Chew through wires, potentially causing electrical fires
Rodents also carry diseases and attract other pests like roaches and flies. If you hear scratching noises at night or find droppings, it’s time to act.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are resilient and can hitch a ride into your home through luggage, clothing, or furniture, especially after holiday travel. Signs of bed bugs include:
- Red, itchy welts on your skin
- Small, dark stains on mattresses or bedding
- Bed bug sightings in seams and crevices
These pests spread quickly and require professional treatment to eradicate completely.
Ants
Hollywood’s warm climate keeps ants active year-round. While most ants are nuisance pests, some species, like carpenter ants, can damage your home. Others, like fire ants, pose a threat to pets and children. DIY ant treatments rarely eliminate the problem, as colonies are often hidden underground. Professional pest control ensures the colony is destroyed at its source.
Tips to Make Your Home Unattractive to Pests
Keeping pests out during winter starts with these proactive steps:
- Seal entry points: Use caulk or weather-stripping to close gaps around doors, windows, and your home’s foundation.
- Keep it clean: Vacuum and sweep regularly, especially in food prep and dining areas. Wipe down counters and wash dishes immediately after meals.
- Declutter: Remove piles of newspapers, cardboard, and other clutter that provide hiding spots for pests.
- Yard maintenance: Keep grass trimmed and tree limbs away from your home to reduce pest access points.
Why Choose On Demand Pest Control?
Winter doesn’t mean a break from pests in Hollywood, Florida. With years of experience in South Florida, On Demand Pest Control provides year-round protection against the pests that thrive in our warm climate.
Our comprehensive services include:
- Free pest inspections to identify current or potential infestations
- Customized treatment plans for common Florida pests
- Perimeter treatments to stop pests before they enter your home
- Expert advice on maintaining a pest-free environment
Don’t wait for pests to ruin your winter. Contact On Demand Pest Control today for a free inspection and keep your home protected year-round!
