While much of the country experiences freezing temperatures and dormant pests during winter, Florida’s mild climate keeps many bugs active year-round. Instead of hibernating, common pests like termites, ants, and roaches continue to thrive—often inside your home. For homeowners in Hollywood, Florida, understanding which bugs are active during winter is key to protecting your home and keeping pests out.
In this article, we’ll cover the most common winter pests in South Florida, their behavior, and how you can effectively manage them.
Why Bugs Stay Active in Florida Winters
Florida’s mild winters rarely dip below 50°F, which means pests don’t experience the same dormancy as they do in colder regions. Instead:
- Many insects become less active outdoors but move inside homes for warmth, food, and shelter.
- Pests like termites and rodents burrow deeper into structures or soil to regulate their body temperature.
- Increased travel and holiday activity often contribute to the spread of pests like bed bugs.
Let’s explore the specific pests to watch out for this winter and how you can prepare.
Common Bugs Active During Florida Winters
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites remain a serious concern throughout the year in Florida. During winter:
- They burrow deeper underground to regulate their temperature.
- Termites continue tunneling and feeding on wood inside homes, causing costly structural damage.
Signs to Watch For: Mud tubes, hollow wood, or discarded wings.
Tip: Schedule a termite inspection to protect your investment from silent destruction.
Cockroaches
Roaches are some of the hardiest pests, thriving in dark, humid environments even during winter. Cooler temperatures encourage roaches to:
- Hide indoors in kitchens, garages, and attics.
- Lay low in cardboard boxes and near water sources like pipes and drains.
Health Risk: Roaches spread bacteria, trigger asthma, and contaminate food.
Solution: Keep your home clean, eliminate leaks, and call for professional roach treatments if you spot signs of infestation.
Ants
Ants in Florida seem unstoppable year-round. During winter:
- Many species stay active indoors, seeking food sources like crumbs or sugary spills.
- While they may slow down slightly in cooler months, they don’t disappear entirely.
Challenge: DIY methods rarely reach the root of the colony.
Advice: Professional pest control targets ant nests to stop infestations for good.
Silverfish
Silverfish are a surprising winter pest in South Florida homes. These pests:
- Thrive in damp, dark spaces like attics, bathrooms, and kitchens.
- Feed on paper, books, and clothing, causing unexpected damage to stored items.
Prevention Tip: Control humidity in your home and store important documents in sealed containers.
Rodents
Winter is prime time for rats and mice to invade homes in search of warmth and food. They:
- Squeeze through tiny cracks as small as a nickel to access attics, walls, and basements.
- Chew through wiring, insulation, and food storage, leading to costly damage and potential fire hazards.
Key Steps: Seal entry points, keep food secure, and address rodent issues promptly with professional help.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are notorious for hitching rides during the holiday season. Increased travel brings these pests into:
- Luggage, clothing, and upholstered surfaces.
- Mattresses, couches, and carpets where they multiply quickly.
Why DIY Fails: Bed bugs are resilient and hide in hard-to-reach places, making professional treatments essential.
Prevent Winter Pest Infestations in Hollywood, FL
Winter may bring cooler weather, but pests in Hollywood, Florida remain a year-round concern. Here are simple pest-proofing tips to keep bugs out this season:
- Seal Entry Points: Check for cracks around doors, windows, and foundations.
- Declutter Your Home: Remove cardboard boxes and unnecessary storage items.
- Fix Moisture Issues: Repair leaks and use dehumidifiers in damp spaces.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down food prep areas, vacuum frequently, and keep trash sealed.
- Schedule an Inspection: Early detection by pest professionals can save you money and hassle.
Call On Demand Pest Control for Reliable Winter Pest Services
If pests are making themselves at home this winter, don’t wait until the problem escalates. At On Demand Pest Control, we provide tailored treatments to target common Florida pests, including:
- Termite control to prevent costly damage.
- Rodent removal to eliminate health hazards.
- Cockroach and ant treatments for a clean, pest-free home.
Our expert team proudly serves Hollywood and surrounding areas with effective, affordable pest control solutions. No matter the season, we’re here to help you reclaim your home.
Get Your FREE Pest Inspection Today!
Don’t let winter pests take over your home. Call On Demand Pest Control today at [insert contact details] or request your FREE inspection online. Let us keep your home safe, clean, and pest-free all year long!
