Winter in New England brings freezing temperatures, shorter days, and a welcome break from many warm-weather pests. But while the snow may stop mosquitoes and ticks, it doesn’t put an end to all pest activity. In fact, winter is one of the most misunderstood seasons when it comes to household pests. Many homeowners assume that insects and rodents disappear entirely until spring—but that simply isn’t the case.
To help you protect your home this season, we’re breaking down some of the most common winter pest myths and sharing the real facts behind them.
Myth #1: Pests Die Off Completely in Winter
This is one of the biggest misconceptions homeowners encounter. While certain pests, like mosquitoes, naturally decline in winter, many others are well-equipped to survive cold temperatures.
The truth:
Pests don’t simply vanish when the temperature drops—they adapt. Rodents grow thicker fur and actively seek out warm places to nest (like your attic or wall voids). Carpenter ants and wasps overwinter inside structures. Cockroaches, depending on their species, can survive indoors all year long. Even spiders stay active inside homes where temperatures are comfortable.
Winter doesn’t eliminate pests—it often pushes them inside.
Myth #2: If I Don’t See Pests, They Aren’t There
Winter pests tend to stay hidden due to the cold, meaning many infestations go unnoticed until spring. Homeowners often assume everything is clear because they aren’t seeing movement. Unfortunately, that can lead to bigger issues.
The truth:
Rodents love insulation, crawl spaces, and basements—areas homeowners don’t check daily. Carpenter ants slow down in winter but remain active deep within walls. Spiders hide out in quiet corners and storage areas. Even cockroaches can remain unnoticed as they nest under appliances.
Just because you aren’t seeing pests doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Winter is a prime time for hidden infestations.
Myth #3: My Home Is New, So Pests Can’t Get In
Many new homeowners assume modern construction means airtight protection. Unfortunately, pests don’t care how new your home is—they only need a gap the size of a dime to get inside.
The truth:
New construction often settles in the first few years, creating shifting gaps around foundations, siding, and roofing. Additionally, contractors may leave small openings around utility lines, vents, or soffits—perfect entry points for mice and insects. Rodents are especially notorious for squeezing into incredibly small spaces, no matter how new the structure may be.
Every home—old or new—benefits from proactive winter pest prevention.
Myth #4: Rodents Only Enter Homes for Food
Food certainly attracts rodents, but warmth and shelter are just as important during winter. Even the cleanest, most organized home can experience a rodent intrusion.
The truth:
Mice and rats are motivated by survival. Winter cold pushes them toward the indoors where they can nest safely away from predators and freezing temperatures. Once inside, they may chew through insulation, wiring, or personal belongings—even if your pantry is spotless.
You can eliminate every crumb in your kitchen, but without sealing entry points, rodents can still find their way in.
Myth #5: DIY Traps Are Enough to Control Winter Pests
Snap traps and bait stations may catch some mice, but they rarely solve the source of the issue. Most winter pest problems are structural—small gaps, hidden nesting spots, or moisture issues—and require professional expertise to handle fully.
The truth:
DIY methods typically address symptoms, not causes. If rodents are entering through gaps near your foundation or carpenter ants are nesting in moist wood inside the walls, store-bought solutions won’t prevent long-term issues. A professional inspection identifies root causes and stops pests at the source.
Myth #6: Winter Pest Activity Doesn’t Cause Damage
Homeowners often think winter is a pest “pause” with minimal risk. Unfortunately, some of the most serious damage happens during the colder months—when pests thrive unnoticed.
The truth:
Rodents can chew wiring, creating fire hazards. Carpenter ants and termites can damage wood within heated areas of the home. Squirrels may tear insulation or gnaw structural beams. The longer pests go undetected, the more costly repairs can become.
Winter is a critical time to stay proactive—not passive.
Protect Your Home From Winter Pests
Winter may slow down certain pests, but it absolutely doesn’t eliminate the threat. Understanding what’s myth versus reality is key to keeping your home protected year-round.
At Cornerstone Pest Control, we help New England homeowners stay ahead of winter invaders with thorough inspections, targeted treatments, and ongoing prevention plans. Whether you’re concerned about rodents, spiders, or hidden insect activity, our team is here to keep your home pest-free—no matter the season.
Don’t let winter pests take shelter in your home. Contact Cornerstone Pest Control today for a winter inspection and customized treatment plan to keep your home protected all season long.