Brrrrr-inging the Pests? Late January Critter Concerns in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, and Beyond!

As the frost settles and we huddle indoors, seeking warmth and comfort in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, and the surrounding areas, we often forget that for some unwanted houseguests, January is prime time. While the allure of a cozy home draws us in, it also beckons critters seeking refuge from the harsh winter. So, before you settle in for another mug of hot cocoa, let's take a look at some common pest issues that can crop up in late January, right here in our corner of the Inland Northwest.

1. Rodent Rendezvous:

Mice and rats, nature's furry little landlords, are notorious for seeking shelter and sustenance indoors during the winter. As food sources dwindle outside, they'll gladly take up residence in your attic, basement, or even behind your walls in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, or Hayden, chewing through insulation and leaving droppings in their wake.

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Rodent running along a baseboard

Signs to watch for:

• Gnaw marks on wood or wires
• Droppings (dark pellets about the size of rice grains)
• Scratching noises in the walls or ceiling
• Musty odor

Crosstown Pest Control's Tips:

• Seal up any cracks or holes around your foundation and doorways, no bigger than a dime, to prevent entry.
• Store food in airtight containers and keep trash cans clean and sealed.
• Set traps or consider humane relocation options (consult a professional for best practices).

2. The Creepy-Crawly Crew:

While many insects hibernate during the winter, some unwelcome guests, like spiders and millipedes, may seek warmth and moisture inside your home in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, or Hayden. They might be drawn to basements, bathrooms, or kitchens, looking for a cozy nook to spend the cold months.

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Spider in a corner

Signs to watch for:

• Webs in corners or around windows
• Millipedes scuttling across the floor or in damp areas
• Other crawling insects, like ants or beetles

Crosstown Pest Control's Tips:

• Keep basements and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry.
• Caulk around windows and doors to seal any gaps.
• Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or cedarwood chips in areas where you've seen pests.

3. The Occasional Overstayer:

While less common, larger critters like raccoons or squirrels can also find their way into your home in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, or Hayden, in search of warmth and food. These resourceful little rascals can cause significant damage to your property, chewing through wires, insulation, and even drywall.

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Raccoon peering through a window

Signs to watch for:

• Scratching or gnawing sounds at night
• Animal droppings in the attic or crawlspace
• Visible damage to your roof or soffits

Crosstown Pest Control's Tips:

• Trim tree branches away from your house to limit access points.
• Secure garbage cans and compost bins with tight lids.
• If you suspect a larger animal infestation, contact a professional pest control company like Crosstown Pest Control for safe and humane removal.

Remember, prevention is key! By taking proactive steps to seal up your home and eliminate attractive food and water sources, you can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted pest infestations this late January in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, and beyond. And if you do find yourself facing a critter crisis, don't hesitate to call Crosstown Pest Control. We're your local experts in safe, effective, and eco-friendly pest control solutions, keeping your home pest-free and cozy all year round.

Contact Crosstown Pest Control today for a free consultation and let us help you send those unwanted January guests packing!

Bonus Tip: Don't forget to share this blog post on your social media channels and tag us @CrosstownPestControl! The more we spread the word about late January pest concerns in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, and other local cities, the more homes we can protect.

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