When the snow falls and temperatures drop, many people in Edmonton assume that pests disappear for the winter. It feels natural to believe that everything from insects to rodents simply hibernates until spring. However, the truth may surprise you. Some pests do slow down in cold weather, but others remain active and continue to cause problems inside homes and businesses. Have you ever opened a cupboard in January and noticed tiny droppings or seen a spider in the basement? If so, you know pests do not always take the season off.
Do Pests Hibernate in Winter?
Some pests in Alberta do enter a type of hibernation called diapause. This is a resting stage where their growth and activity slow down until conditions improve. Insects like cluster flies and certain species of ants use this survival tactic. Others seek shelter in soil, under logs, or inside warm homes.
The key point is that pests do not vanish in winter. They either find ways to pause their activity or move closer to people for food and heat.
Pests That Stay Active Indoors
Many pests actually become more noticeable in Edmonton homes during the winter. Cold weather drives them inside, where they can thrive. Instead of slowing down, these pests take advantage of the warmth and shelter provided indoors.
Some of the most common winter-active pests include:
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Mice: These small rodents search for food and shelter in kitchens, basements, and attics. Learn more about mice control.
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Spiders: They remain active in basements, bathrooms, and dark corners. Discover how our spider services can help.
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Cockroaches: Once inside, they do not slow down. They continue to reproduce and spread bacteria. See our cockroach control options.
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Bed bugs: These pests do not hibernate and can be a year-round problem. Learn about bed bug treatments.
Each of these pests creates unique challenges for homeowners during the cold months.
Why Winter Pests Are a Problem
Even if pests seem less active outdoors, their presence indoors can cause serious issues. Rodents contaminate food and damage property. Spiders unsettle homeowners when they appear unexpectedly. Cockroaches and bed bugs pose health risks that should not be ignored.
Imagine hosting a holiday gathering only to discover a mouse scurrying across the kitchen floor. Or finding a spider in the corner of your guest room when family arrives. These scenarios are all too common during Alberta winters.
How to Keep Your Home Pest-Free in Winter
Prevention is the best way to deal with pests that stay active during the cold months. By making your home less inviting, you reduce the chances of an infestation taking hold.
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Inspect: Seal cracks and gaps around foundations, windows, and doors.
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Clean: Keep food stored in sealed containers and wipe up crumbs promptly.
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Monitor: Watch for droppings, webbing, or other early signs of pest activity.
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Reduce: Clutter in basements and storage areas where pests like to hide.
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Call: A professional pest control company like Birch Fumigators for inspections and treatments.
Winter Pest Control Solutions in Edmonton
Pests may not hibernate the way people think, and some are more active in winter than ever. While cold weather may slow down outdoor infestations, indoor spaces provide pests with exactly what they need to survive. The result is more activity in homes when families want peace and comfort the most.
Birch Fumigators offers professional pest control services for Edmonton homeowners year-round. Whether it is mice, spiders, cockroaches, or bed bugs, our experienced team knows how to keep pests under control. Do not wait until spring to address the problem. Winter is the perfect time to make sure your home is truly pest-free.