As temperatures drop in Florida, many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief, believing that pest problems will disappear with the cooler weather. Unfortunately, that’s not entirely the case. While some pests may slow down, ants and termites remain active threats that require vigilance and prevention during the winter months. Here's what you need to know about these resilient pests and how to protect your home.
Termites: The Silent Destroyers
Termites are a year-round threat in Florida due to the warm, humid climate, but they use the winter months to ramp up their activity in preparation for spring. Subterranean termites remain active below the soil surface, gathering resources and expanding their colonies. Meanwhile, drywood termites may be quietly infesting wooden structures in your home, chewing away unseen and undisturbed.
How Termites Use Winter to Invade
- Colony Expansion: Subterranean termites continue tunneling and foraging, building the foundations for a larger colony in the spring.
- Hidden Infestation: Drywood termites burrow deeper into wood during winter, making them harder to detect.
- Increased Vulnerability: Homeowners often neglect pest prevention during winter, giving termites an opportunity to cause significant damage unnoticed.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
- Hollow-sounding wood when tapped.
- Small piles of frass (termite droppings) near wooden surfaces.
- Discarded wings near windowsills or entry points.
- Mud tubes along the foundation or walls.
Ants: Persistent Invaders
Ants may seem less active in cooler weather, but they also use the winter months to prepare for the warmer seasons. Many species, like Argentine ants and odorous house ants, move indoors seeking food, water, and warmth, where they establish nests and ramp up production to expand their colonies. Additionally, some ant species, like fire ants, can pose a serious danger to pets, as their bites and stings can cause severe allergic reactions or even death in extreme cases.
How Ants Use Winter to Invade
- Nesting Indoors: Cooler weather drives ants inside, where they can build nests in walls, cabinets, or other sheltered areas.
- Colony Growth: Ant colonies use the stability of indoor environments to increase their numbers during winter.
- Food Foraging: Despite the season, ants will actively search for food sources in your home.
Signs of an Ant Infestation
- Pets showing signs of discomfort, irritation, or allergic reactions that could be linked to ant activity.
- Trails of ants moving through your home, particularly in kitchens or pantries.
- Small mounds of dirt or disturbed soil near the foundation.
- Persistent sightings of individual ants, even after cleaning thoroughly.
Prevention Tips
- Regular Pest Control Maintenance: Professional treatments can create barriers to keep ants out and target colonies near your home.
- Seal Entry Points: Check for and seal cracks, gaps around windows and doors, and utility entry points.
- Eliminate Food Sources: Keep food in airtight containers, wipe down counters, and promptly clean up spills.
- Address Moisture Issues: Fix leaky pipes and ensure sinks and bathtubs are dry when not in use.
Why Winter Pest Control Matters
Ignoring pest control during the winter months can give ants and termites a chance to establish themselves in your home, making them harder to control when spring arrives. Staying proactive with prevention and regular treatments ensures your home remains pest-free year-round.
How The Masters Lawn & Pest Can Help
At The Masters Lawn & Pest, we understand the unique challenges of pest control in Florida. Our comprehensive pest management programs target ants, termites, and other common pests with customized solutions for your home. Whether you need preventative treatments or solutions for an existing problem, our team is here to help.
Don’t let ants and termites take over this winter! Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our pest control services. Together, we’ll keep your home safe and comfortable through every season.