Winters in Arizona are mild, but the nights may get cold. Pest activity seems to slow down, so many homeowners are tempted to take a month or two off from regular extermination services. This is inadvisable, because some of the winter pests in Arizona will seek refuge in homes from the chilly nights. Certain pests may be more of a nuisance than others during the winter in Arizona.

Some of the Winter Pests in Arizona

Rodents

Rodents are year-round pests, but may become a particular nuisance during the winter. Rodents will seek out the warmth and shelter of lower traffic areas such as attics or sheds. Once rodents have entered the home, it can cause an infestation to develop quickly. Not only do rodents multiply quickly, the scent that rodents leave behind attracts other rodents. A professional pest exterminator can help to rodent-proof the home for the winter and the rest of the year.

Cockroaches

American cockroaches, German cockroaches, and brown-banded cockroaches all prefer the warmth and shelter of homes during cooler months. Any of these cockroaches may quickly cause a severe infestation, as cockroaches multiply extremely quickly and may be difficult to eliminate. Cockroaches are typically found in areas of the home that are used for food preparation or serving, but may be difficult to spot because of their nocturnal nature. A professional extermination service may be required to rid a home of a cockroach infestation.

Conenose or Kissing Bugs

Kissing bugs earn their name because they bite around the lips and face while homeowners are sleeping. These bugs may nest and lay eggs in small crevices around sleeping areas. These bugs often accompany pack rat infestations, as they are particularly attracted to pack rats. This makes these bugs more of a nuisance during the winter, as pack rats often move indoors. Eliminating a pack rat issue may not be enough to rid the home of a kissing bug infestation, however, as kissing bugs may begin to feed on pets or residents within the home. An exterminator will often inspect and treat the home for kissing bugs when pack rats have been found or if other signs of the bugs are visible.