Winter Pests to Watch Out For in Shreveport

​What This Blog Covers:

• Common winter pests in Shreveport
• Why winter still attracts pests indoors
• Preventive steps to keep your home pest-free
• How professional pest control can protect your home
• Frequently asked questions about winter pests

Rodents: Mice and Rats

Rodents are a year-round problem in our region, but when temperatures drop, your warm home becomes even more attractive to them. Food scarcity outdoors during the winter also pushes mice and rats into kitchens, crawl spaces, garages, and attics.

Once inside, rodents don’t just make a mess; mice and rats chew wires (potentially creating fire hazards), damage insulation and other building materials, and contaminate food. Rodents aren’t just annoying; they’re a serious risk to your home and family.

Signs of rodent activity to watch for: droppings, gnaw marks, nests in hidden areas, and unusual scratching sounds.

Cockroaches: German, American, Oriental, and Smokey Brown

Shreveport homes can unknowingly host a few types of cockroaches, but German cockroaches and American roaches are the most common. These nocturnal pests prefer warm, humid indoor environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

Cockroaches are more than unsightly; they spread germs, trigger allergies, and contaminate food. Seeing even one could indicate a larger problem lurking in the shadows.

Professional tip: If you spot roaches during the day, your infestation may be severe.

House Spiders

Cooler weather drives spiders inside to hunt for other pests. House spiders prefer garages, attics, storage spaces, and quiet corners. While they aren’t dangerous, their presence is a clue that other bugs are afoot. For many homeowners, simply seeing an arachnid is enough to cause concern.

Subterranean Termites

Termites don’t hibernate in winter. In Louisiana’s climate, these insects continue to chew through wood, silently damaging your home’s structure. Regardless of the season, termite infestations can often go unnoticed, but the damage is real and costly.

Essential note: Regular inspections are crucial because termite activity isn’t tied to temperature.

Why Winter is Risky for Pests in Shreveport

Even mild winters in Shreveport can push pests indoors. Homes provide warmth, constant water, nesting sites, and easy access to food. When outdoor resources dwindle, pests get creative, and your dwelling becomes their winter refuge.

Preventive Steps to Keep Your Home Pest-Free

Protecting your home is easier than you think. Anti-Pest recommends the following pest prevention tips:

• Seal gaps around doors, windows, vents, and pipes.
• Keep your home clean, dry, and clutter-free.
• Store food and pet food in sealed containers.
• Reduce moisture by fixing leaks, ensuring proper drainage, and improving ventilation.
• Inspect firewood, boxes, and furniture before bringing them indoors.
• Trim branches and attend to other yard maintenance tasks to eliminate potential hiding spots and access points.
• Schedule routine pest inspections for ongoing protection.

Call in the Shreveport Pest Control Experts: Anti-Pest Can Help

DIY efforts are a great start, but professional pest control is the most reliable way to keep your home pest-free. Available in Shreveport, Bossier City, and surrounding communities, Anti-Pest’s home pest control services include elimination, prevention, and a pest-free guarantee: if covered pests return, so do we—at no extra cost.

Don’t wait for pests to settle in. Let our trusted professionals protect your home this winter and all year long. Contact us today!

Winter Pests in Shreveport FAQ

Can I prevent winter pests without professional help?
You can take steps such as sealing cracks, storing food properly, reducing moisture, and maintaining your yard to prevent pests. These methods help, but pests are persistent, especially rodents and cockroaches. Professional inspections and treatments provide a guaranteed, year-round solution.

How do I tell the difference between mice and rats?
Mice are smaller, have large ears relative to their head, and leave tiny droppings. Rats are larger, have thicker tails, and leave bigger droppings.

What’s the first sign of a winter pest problem?
Common warning signs vary by pests but include droppings, gnaw marks, shed skins, egg sacs, webs, mud tubes, or unusual smells. Early detection allows for quicker intervention before pests establish a permanent home.