Winter Home Critters: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore That Scratching Sound

There it was again, that soft, persistent scratching coming from behind the wall. At first, you thought it was the wind, but as the nights got colder, the noises grew louder, scratching and scurrying like unwelcome whispers in the dark. 

It’s not your imagination—it’s winter, and pests are seeking warmth and food in your home. As strange as it sounds, those tiny sounds may be your first and only warning of an incoming infestation.

For DLS Pest, a comprehensive pest control service in New York, pest control is about more than just getting rid of pests—it’s about restoring the peace in your home and preventing infestations before they start. Owner Michael and his team understand that no one wants to think about pests setting up camp in their walls or kitchen, but a timely response now could save you thousands down the line.

Why Winter Brings Pests Inside

As the temperature drops, many insects and rodents look for a place to keep warm, and unfortunately, your cozy home is the perfect escape from the cold. 

In Westchester, Scarsdale, Yonkers, and White Plains, for example, it’s common to see an uptick in rodents, cockroaches, and even larger critters taking shelter indoors. And while they’re often out of sight, these pests don’t just hibernate quietly—they can damage your property and put your family’s health at risk.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Pest Infestation

Ignoring the signs of pests often leads to full-blown infestations, and once they’re settled in, they can be hard to remove. DLS Pest advises homeowners to stay alert to these common warning signs:

• Strange Sounds: Scratching or rustling sounds at night in walls, attics, or ceilings.
• Droppings or Smudges: Small, dark droppings, especially near baseboards or in pantries.
• Odd Smells: Mice and other pests leave a musty, stale odor that can fill hidden spaces.
• Gnaw Marks: Rodents love to chew, especially on wires, wood, and food packaging.

These signs might seem subtle, but they’re early indicators that pests have moved in. Acting on them quickly can help avoid damage and even electrical fires caused by gnawed wires!

The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Pest Infestations

In addition to being annoying, pest infestations pose real risks. Mice and rats carry diseases like salmonella and hantavirus, which can spread to humans through their droppings. 

Cockroaches, on the other hand, can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children and pets. Left unchecked, these pests can even make a permanent home in your walls, insulation, and ductwork, leading to costly repairs and replacements.

That’s why DLS Pest stresses the importance of early intervention, using their knowledge of pest behaviors and habitats to keep homes pest-free all winter long.

Preventing Winter Infestations

To keep your home safe this season, DLS Pest recommends these proactive steps:

1. Seal Entry Points: Rodents can squeeze through holes as small as a dime. Check for gaps around doors, windows, and utility pipes, and seal them tightly.
2. Remove Food Sources: Pests are always on the hunt for food. Keep counters clean, store food in airtight containers, and take out the trash regularly.
3. Reduce Clutter: Cluttered spaces provide excellent hiding spots for pests. Organize storage areas and remove piles of newspapers, cardboard, or firewood.

Taking these precautions can go a long way in preventing unwanted guests from moving in this winter. And if you’re already hearing those suspicious sounds, don’t wait to address them—reach out for help and protect your home.

A Safe, Pest-Free Winter

Winter doesn’t have to bring uninvited guests into your home. With experts like DLS Pest and their expertise, you can keep your home warm, safe, and undisturbed by pests.