Why Cockroaches Thrive in the Winter
When winter rolls around, you may be expecting a break from pests. And while it’s true that some insects are less active as the weather cools, your home may not be as protected from infestations as you think.
Cockroaches, for example, are known for their resilience, which helps them survive cold months in sheltered environments. Today, we’ll help you learn how to spot and control roaches during the chilly season so the only winter guests you’ll have over are welcome ones.
Where Do Cockroaches Go in the Winter?
As temperatures drop, cockroaches enter a survival state called diapause. During diapause, their activity level and reproduction slow down significantly, but they don’t disappear altogether. Many cockroaches seek warmth and protection indoors, hiding in wall voids, basements, kitchens, and garages.
The story changes if cockroaches find themselves in a warm, temperature-controlled environment like your home. In these cases, they often snap out of diapause and become fully active, taking advantage of this new, cozy habitat to seek food, reproduce, and establish a colony. That’s why spotting and eliminating cockroaches before they spread is so important.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Pest Control For Roaches
What Do Cockroaches Look Like?
Adult cockroaches are easily recognizable with their flat, brownish bodies and long, curved antennae. However, juvenile roaches and eggs can be harder to spot. To help identify these hidden pests, look for:
- Small, capsule-shaped egg casings. These casings are usually dark brown and may be found near food sources or in tight cracks.
- Smaller roaches. Juvenile cockroaches look like smaller versions of adults but usually lack wings, making them easier to miss.
- Shedded skins. Roaches shed their exoskeletons as they grow, leaving behind light-brown casings in frequently visited areas.
How To Control Roaches Before They Get Inside
Preventing cockroaches from entering in the first place is the best way to keep your home roach-free during winter. Here are some effective steps our experts recommend:
- Seal food sources by storing all food in airtight containers and immediately clean up crumbs and spills.
- Fix leaks and remove any sources of standing water, as roaches are drawn to moisture.
- Close gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior, especially around your garage, front door, and windows, to keep pests out and help insulate your home during the colder months.
How To Detect Roaches Before They Spread
Cockroaches are notoriously reclusive, often emerging only after dark to seek food, water, and shelter, so spotting them directly can be challenging. One common indicator is an unusual, musty odor, which intensifies as the number of cockroaches increases. You may also notice dark, irregular stains or smear marks along walls, especially in warm, humid areas.
Droppings are another key sign. They resemble coffee grounds or small black specks and are often found near food sources or in dark hiding spots. Keep an eye out for them to track down where the roaches may be hiding.
Count on Brooks for Professional Rodent Control Year-Round
Brooks is here for you when roaches invade, any time of year. Our pest control team is skilled in identifying and addressing roach infestations of all sizes with proven strategies to keep them out for good. When you need to know how to get rid of cockroaches, rely on Brooks!
If you suspect cockroaches or other pests have moved in, reach out to Brooks Pest Control today. We’ll keep your entire home protected so you can rest easy this winter.