As soon as the first winter storm blows through, many different species are going to be on the lookout for a warm place to nest. Unfortunately, that can result in a major pest infestation that brings your life to a grinding halt. Here is a look at a few of the most common winter pests that might try to invade your home or business.

Boxelder Bugs

Even though boxelder bugs aren’t particularly dangerous, those insects can be a major nuisance. They typically live in maple trees during the winter, but some might try to sneak into your home or business if they can’t find a warm place where they can hide from the elements. When boxelder bugs aren’t removed from a building, they will emit a musty odor that is very difficult to get rid of. Those bugs might also eat any food that you happen to leave out on your counters.

Mice

Mice are mammals, and that means they need to have a warm place to nest once the weather starts to cool off. Unlike boxelder bugs, mice can be very harmful, and they will bring countless germs into your home. Mice can also cause a tremendous amount of property damage by chewing through electrical cords and ripping up your insulation.

Cockroaches

While most cockroaches become inactive during the winter months, they will remain active if they are in a warm and comfortable environment, like a home. That is why some homeowners will struggle with huge cockroach infestations even when the outdoor temperatures are freezing. Getting rid of a cockroach infestation can be a major project, and you are going to need to work with a pest control expert if you want to keep that type of bug out of your home.

Raccoons

Raccoons most likely won’t enter an occupied home or business, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see them on your property. They are going to stay on your property as long as they can find or build a relatively comfortable den that is near a source of food. Those dens can usually be found around dead trees, under porches, and inside outdoor sheds.

The easiest way to deal with any of these winter animals is to work with an experienced pest control team. Even during the coldest months of the year, you could end up with a serious pest infestation that quickly spirals out of control.