Top 3 Myths About Winter Pests Debunked

When winter arrives in the Bay Area, many people assume pest problems vanish with the colder weather. After all, we don’t see as many mosquitoes buzzing around or ants marching across countertops, right? Unfortunately, this assumption is one of the biggest misconceptions about winter pest activity. The truth is that pests don’t take a seasonal vacation—they simply change their behavior. At CalPro Pest Control, we’re here to set the record straight and debunk three of the most common winter pest myths to help you stay informed and keep your home protected.

Myth 1: Pests Die Off in Winter

While it’s true that some pests are less active outdoors during the winter, many species are highly resilient and can survive colder temperatures. Rodents, spiders, and cockroaches are experts at finding warm and sheltered spots—often inside homes, garages, and basements. In California, our relatively mild winters mean pests are even more likely to remain active. Instead of dying off, they relocate indoors where warmth, shelter, and food are plentiful. Ignoring pest prevention in winter allows pests to establish themselves in your home, leading to larger infestations when spring arrives. Preventative care in winter can make all the difference in long-term pest control.

Myth 2: Termites Aren’t Active in Winter

While termites in some colder regions may slow their activity during freezing temperatures, subterranean termites—the most common termite species in California—remain active year-round. They continue feeding on wood structures, often unnoticed, because they tunnel deep into soil and wood, where temperatures remain stable. Ignoring termite activity in winter can allow them to cause costly structural damage. In fact, winter is one of the best times for a termite inspection because their activity may become more concentrated in specific areas of your home, making infestations easier to detect and address.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need Pest Control in Winter

Many homeowners believe pest control is only necessary during the spring and summer months when pests are more visible. However, winter is a critical time for pest inspections and treatments. Many pests, including rodents, cockroaches, and spiders, actively seek shelter indoors during colder months, and an unchecked infestation can grow rapidly. Preventative pest control measures taken in winter can stop infestations before they start and save you from larger problems (and expenses) in the spring.

Protect Your Home This Winter with CalPro Pest Control

Winter pest myths can lead to costly damage, health hazards, and frustrating infestations if left unchecked. Pests are resourceful and resilient, and colder weather simply drives them to seek warmth and shelter—often in our homes. At CalPro Pest Control, we specialize in year-round pest control solutions tailored to the unique climate and pest challenges of the Bay Area. Contact us today at (916) 245-2899, and let us create a customized pest management plan for your home.