Hoping for A Pest Free Winter? Winter in Botswana can offer a much-needed break from some common household pests like flies and mosquitoes. However, it’s important to remember that not all pests disappear during the colder months. Some pests remain active and may even venture inside homes in search of warmth and protection. A recent look at pest control searches on Google in Botswana shows that searches for specific winter pests peak between April and July.
Here are some common winter pests that may become more active indoors:
Rodents:
Rats and mice are not natural hibernators, which means they are generally active throughout the year. Although breeding activity slows down in colder weather, rodents may still seek shelter indoors, which can create serious health hazards. To keep rodents from entering your home, use door sweeps, trim or remove any high grass, weeds, bushes or tree limbs away from structures, and close off any entry points, even small holes or cracks.
Cockroaches:
Cockroaches thrive in hot and humid conditions. They may even migrate indoors during the colder months in search of food and water. There are four common species of cockroaches in Botswana: American, German, Oriental, and Brown-banded.
• American cockroaches are the largest species of cockroach and are commonly found in dark, damp places like sewers.
• German cockroaches are the most common and concerning species of cockroach. They are known for spreading diseases and causing outbreaks of illness and allergic reactions in many people.
• Oriental cockroaches are dark in colour and have a short lifespan, with very few adults found during the winter months.
• Brown-banded cockroaches are named after their banded markings. These banded markings are more distinctive in their early ages and fade with age in both males and females.
Termites:
Although termites may become less active in the winter, it is not uncommon for colonies to continue infesting homes in Botswana. This is due to the moderate climate. Signs of a termite infestation include wood that sounds hollow when tapped, a temporary swarm of winged insects in your home or around your property after rain, mud tubes on exterior walls, and discarded wings from swarmers.
Bed Bugs:
While bed bugs may be more active in the warmer months, they can remain active during the winter as long as there is a food source nearby. To keep them out of your bed, vacuum your mattress and upholstery frequently to remove any hitchhiking bed bugs and make sure your mattress is professionally cleaned at least every six months to a year to eliminate dust mites, bed bugs, and other allergens.
Overall, it’s important to be aware of the potential for pest activity during the winter months in Botswana and take preventive measures to keep them out of your home and have a Pest free Winter.