If you’re waiting until spring to think about pest control, now is the time to reconsider. February may still feel like winter in Central Virginia, but pest activity is already beginning to ramp up behind the scenes. The best way to avoid a full-blown spring infestation is to act now—so if you haven’t scheduled your winter pest inspection, contact Pest Now of Central VA today and stay ahead of the season.
Many homeowners assume cold weather eliminates pests, but in Virginia’s relatively mild winter climate, that isn’t true. Instead of disappearing, pests adapt. They move indoors, settle into protected spaces, and begin preparing for spring reproduction. By February, many infestations are already quietly established inside walls, crawl spaces, attics, and basements.
Why February Is a Turning Point for Pest Activity
February is a transitional month. While freezing temperatures still occur, we also experience occasional warm days that trigger pest movement. These temperature fluctuations signal to insects and rodents that spring is approaching. As a result, they begin expanding nesting sites and increasing activity levels.
Because pests are still mostly hidden and concentrated, February is actually one of the most strategic times for professional treatment. Eliminating them now prevents population growth before March and April bring visible swarms and increased breeding.
Common February Pests in Central Virginia
Several pests remain active throughout winter and become more noticeable as February progresses:
Rodents (Mice and Rats):
Rodents that entered homes in late fall are now fully settled. They nest in insulation, chew through wiring, and contaminate crawl spaces. By February, rodent populations can multiply significantly if left untreated.
Ants:
While outdoor ant activity slows in winter, colonies remain alive. Warmer February days often trigger scouting ants inside kitchens and bathrooms—a sign of early expansion.
Cockroaches:
Roaches thrive in heated homes during the winter months. February infestations can grow quickly in warm, humid areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
Spiders:
Spiders stay active indoors as long as insects are available. Basements, garages, and storage areas are common hiding spots.
Termites:
Subterranean termites continue feeding underground year-round. February is an ideal time to inspect for moisture issues that attract termite colonies to foundations.
Why Waiting Until Spring Can Cost More
By the time homeowners see pest activity in spring, the problem has often been developing for months. Winter provides the perfect low-visibility window for pests to reproduce and spread.
Delaying pest control can lead to:
- Damaged insulation and wiring from rodents
- Larger ant and roach colonies
- Structural wood damage from termites
- Increased treatment time and costs
Preventive treatment in February is typically more affordable and less invasive than addressing a widespread spring infestation.
Areas of the Home Most at Risk
In Central Virginia homes, pests commonly settle in:
- Crawl spaces with moisture or insulation issues
- Attics that provide warmth and nesting materials
- Basements with limited foot traffic
- Garages with gaps or stored clutter
- Wall voids near heating systems
These areas often go unchecked during winter, making professional inspections especially valuable in February.
What Homeowners Can Do Right Now
While professional pest control is the most effective solution, homeowners can reduce pest pressure by:
- Sealing cracks and exterior gaps
- Repairing weather stripping around doors
- Reducing clutter in storage areas
- Addressing condensation and moisture issues
- Keeping food sealed in airtight containers
- Storing firewood away from the home
These steps help, but they may not eliminate pests that are already nesting inside walls or crawl spaces.
How Pest Now of Central VA Protects Your Home
Pest Now of Central VA offers seasonal pest control plans tailored to Virginia’s climate and pest patterns. February services focus on proactive prevention and hidden infestations, ensuring your home is protected before spring activity surges.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
- Detailed winter inspections
- Targeted treatments for rodents and insects
- Entry point identification and sealing recommendations
- Crawl space and moisture assessments
- Ongoing year-round protection options
By acting in February, homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their home is protected before pest season peaks.
Spring pest problems start in winter—and the window to prevent them is now. Don’t wait until ants are marching across your kitchen or rodents are scratching in your walls. Contact Pest Now of Central VA today to schedule your February inspection and take control before spring pests take over.
