Massachusetts’ Biggest Winter Pest Threats in the Home

Rats and mice can be pretty terrifying creatures to many folks. In Massachusetts, they are among the greatest winter pest threats.

Be warned.

Mass Bay Wildlife Mgmt. Inc. says, "One of the more prevalent wintertime pests in this region is rodents, especially rat and mice infestations."

The group's website says, "They infiltrate residences, crawl spaces, lofts, and cellars in search of warmth and protection from frigid temperatures."

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Rodents can cause costly damage to your property once they've made it their home. "By biting through insulating material, cable, and other materials," they can cause damage and potential health risks.

My mother-in-law had an infestation of mice in her garage. They chewed through power cables in her car, resulting in expensive repairs.

Cockroaches and spiders are also prone to look for warmth indoors during the winter months.

Catseye Pest Control says, "Massachusetts is home to a diverse population of wildlife, including more than 80 different species of mammals. Of those, 15 species are considered common rodents in Massachusetts, with critters ranging from tiny mice and shrews to subterranean big brown rats and spiky porcupines."

Catseye says, "All rodents potentially carry health risks and could damage buildings, structures, and properties."

Mass Bay Wildlife Mgmt. Inc. suggests you adopt a strategy for winter pest control to protect your investment.

Such a strategy might include sealing entry points, adequate preservation and hygiene, removing all food supplies, routine inspection, and continual upkeep."

When I owned my home a giant rodent, probably a rat, moved into my garbage shed. It was a small wooden building on the property. The rodent would steal garbage from the trash cans and use it to establish a home in the corner of the shed.

He moved out after I discovered his digs and chased him down the driveway with a shovel.