Winter Pest Problems in Minneapolis Homes (and What You Can Do About Them)
Minnesota winters are no joke—and while cold weather keeps most bugs at bay, it doesn’t stop all pests from becoming a problem. In fact, some of the most frustrating infestations start after the snow flies.
Here’s what Twin Cities homeowners should watch out for during the winter months—and how to stop these sneaky pests from making themselves too comfortable.
1. Mice and Rats
Rodents are the #1 winter pest we deal with in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Attics, garages, crawl spaces, and basements are perfect hideouts—and they don’t need much space to get in.
Signs You May Have Rodents:
Droppings or chewed packaging
Noises in walls or ceilings at night
Gnawed wires, insulation, or baseboards
What to Do:
Seal exterior cracks and gaps.
Keep outdoor firewood and garbage away from the home.
Call at the first sign—rodents reproduce quickly and can cause serious damage.
2. Overwintering Insects
Boxelder bugs, lady beetles, and stink bugs that found shelter in the fall may now be active inside your home—especially on warmer days or near windows.
What to Do:
Vacuum them up (don’t crush).
Seal indoor gaps and light fixtures where bugs emerge.
Ask about safe, targeted treatments to reduce activity until spring.
3. Spiders
Fewer bugs in winter doesn’t always mean fewer spiders. Many remain active in undisturbed places like basements, attics, and utility rooms.
What to Do:
Declutter storage areas.
Keep an eye out for egg sacs—spring could bring a bigger population.
Use professional service to identify and control indoor spider activity.
4. Cockroaches (Yes, Even in Winter)
Cockroaches love warm, damp areas—making wintertime kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms surprisingly inviting. Once they’re in, they can spread fast and are tough to remove without help.
What to Do:
Keep sinks and counters dry overnight.
Avoid leaving pet food out.
Don’t wait—roach infestations grow quickly and require expert treatment.
Get Ahead of Winter Pests Before They Take Hold
You can’t rely on cold weather to keep pests away. In fact, winter can make your home even more attractive to rodents and insects trying to escape the elements.
If you’re hearing scratching in the walls or seeing suspicious signs in your basement, don’t wait until spring—call Be There Pest Control today at (612) 448-3854 to request a consultation or initial appointment. We’ll make sure your home stays warm, safe, and pest-free all winter long.