Here’s what’s still creeping in when the temperature drops and why it’s worth calling in the pest control pros to nip it in the bud.
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your pest problems take a holiday.
Sure, you’re less likely to see flies buzzing around or mozzies crashing your backyard—but winter in Australia brings a whole different kind of creepy-crawly concern. In fact, colder months can drive some pests into your home, seeking warmth, food, and shelter.
If you think you’re safe from pest problems in winter, think again. Here’s what’s still creeping in when the temperature drops and why it’s worth calling in the pros to nip it in the bud.
1. Rodents: The Classic Winter Invaders
Mice and rats are notorious winter squatters. As outdoor temperatures drop, they start looking for cosy, food-filled hideouts — and your kitchen pantry fits the bill perfectly.
You might notice:
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Scratching in the walls or roof cavity
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Chewed food packets or wiring (yep, they love electrical cables!)
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Droppings under sinks or in drawers
Rodents can squeeze through tiny gaps — even holes as small as 6mm for mice — and once they’re in, they can reproduce at lightning speed. Not only do they carry diseases, but they can also cause serious property damage.
Tip: Seal entry points, store food in airtight containers, and don’t leave pet food out overnight. But if you spot signs of an infestation, it’s best to call a licensed pest controller through ServiceSeeking.com.au. They’ll deal with it properly before it turns into a full-blown mouse house.
2. Cockroaches: Not Just a Summer Problem
Think roaches only come out when it’s hot? Think again. German cockroaches, in particular, thrive indoors during winter, especially in warm, moist environments like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries.
Once they move in, they’re hard to get rid of — and let’s be honest, no one wants to find one crawling across the benchtop when making a cuppa.
Tip: Keep surfaces clean, fix any leaks, and avoid leaving food out. But when in doubt, pest control professionals can set up gel baits and targeted treatments that work much better than DIY sprays.
3. Spiders: Seeking Shelter From the Cold
While many spiders are harmless (and even helpful), there are a few — like the redback or white-tailed spider — that you probably don’t want sharing your space. Winter is prime time for them to seek warmth in dark corners, sheds, garages, and even inside shoes.
Tip: Declutter, vacuum regularly, and wear gloves when working outside or in the garage. If you’ve noticed an uptick in spider sightings, a local pest controller can apply safe perimeter sprays to deter them from coming in at all.
4. Ants: Marching Indoors for Food
Ants might slow down in the cold, but they don’t disappear. If their outdoor food supply dries up, they’ll make a beeline (or should we say, an ant-line) straight into your kitchen in search of crumbs and sweets.
They can squeeze in through cracks in windows, doors, and flooring, especially if there's a tempting scent trail to follow.
Tip: Clean up spills straight away, seal food properly, and plug entry points. If you’ve got a stubborn nest you can’t seem to beat, a pro can locate the source and treat it properly, saving you time and frustration.
5. Termites: The Silent Destroyers Don’t Stop in Winter
Unlike other pests, termites don’t take a break when it gets cold. They stay active all year round, quietly chewing through timber and causing thousands in damage if left unchecked.
Because they work out of sight — in walls, under floors, or in the garden — you often don’t realise there’s a problem until it’s too late.
Tip: Schedule annual termite inspections, especially if you live in a high-risk area or haven’t had one in a while. Winter is actually a great time to catch termite activity early, before spring triggers a new swarm.
What About Mosquitoes in Winter?
You might be wondering — do mozzies disappear completely in winter?
The short answer: not everywhere.
In most of southern Australia, mosquito activity drops right off during winter. That’s because they’re cold-blooded and become inactive when temps dip below around 10°C. Many species survive by laying eggs that lie dormant until spring rains and warmer weather bring them back to life.
But if you’re up north — think Cairns, Darwin, or northern WA — it’s a different story. Mosquitoes can still be active in winter, especially if it’s humid or there’s been rain. So, while you might pack away the Aerogard in Melbourne, it’s worth keeping it handy if you’re in the tropics.
Why Hire a Pest Controller in Winter?
Even if things seem quiet, pests don’t always advertise their presence. Winter is the ideal time for preventative pest control — stopping infestations before they explode in spring. It’s also the perfect season to do a check-up on your home’s defences, without the added pressure of peak pest season.
Qualified pest controllers know what to look for, where pests are hiding, and how to treat them safely and effectively. They’ll tailor treatments to your specific situation, whether it’s rodents, cockroaches, spiders or termites.
And the best part? You don’t have to search far.
At ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can find top-rated, licensed pest control experts in your area. You can compare quotes, read reviews, and book in just a few clicks. It’s a smart move that’ll save you stress (and potentially thousands in damage) down the line.
Final Word
Winter might feel like a break from bugs and pests, but the truth is, it’s just a shift in strategy — from swatting to sealing, from chasing to checking.
Don’t wait until something starts scratching on the roof or crawling in your pantry. A quick visit from a pest pro now can keep your home safe, warm, and pest-free all season long.
