Many people on the Gold Coast think that pest control and termite management is only an issue in the warmer months of spring and summer. But during the winter some pest control problems are actually worse. Rodents (Rats / Mice) are often noticed more in the winter because they move from outdoor areas into buildings to escape the colder weather. Their breeding continues during the winter and they need a secure and warm place to do this and so they are frequently heard inside roof cavities or behind plasterboard walls.
As rodents can cause significant damage to electrical wiring by their constant gnawing it is important not to ignore this. As rodents are nocturnal you are more likely to hear their scratching and running about during the night. At All Care Pest and Termite Control we have access to the latest rodent baiting products which have been specially formulated to get them eating the product as soon as possible. These products have been designed to minimise the risk to both adults and children, although, when we place baits in areas where children may be present we use lockable rat stations for greater security.
Cockroaches can also be a problem during the winter months although it is true that they are not as active as they are during the summer. If control has not been achieved earlier in the year than is quite likely that cockroaches will be seen inside the warmer areas of the house. This is particularly the case with German Cockroaches which can live in a micro environment inside electrical equipment, refrigerator and dishwasher motors etc..
The same applies to subterranean termites. The nest can live for over 50 years and once they have infested a house they will continue to feed even when the temperature drops. Termites usually bring large amounts of damp mud into spaces behind plasterboard and this has an insulating effect for them. Even if the area becomes too cold perhaps during the night or very early morning, they simply retreat back under the ground only to return to their feeding inside the walls during the warmer parts of the day.
If you notice any insect or rodent activity it is important to remember that they don’t die away in the winter and that treatment may be necessary. If you would like any further advice about these issues please call All Care Pest and Termite Control on 5574 0269 or 0412 142 340.