By the time February hits in Maryland and the DC region, most people have already assumed that pest control is on hold. After all, it’s cold outside, so the bugs must be gone, right?
Not so fast.
While the cold weather does mean that some pest activity will be slowed, it certainly doesn’t mean that it’s stopped. In fact, February can be a bit of a tricky month when it comes to pest control, particularly in terms of what’s happening inside your home.
Let’s take a look at the pests we’re still seeing during this time of year, and when it’s time to bring in the professionals.
Winter Doesn’t Equal Pest-Free
Many pests don’t disappear in winter. They adapt.
Some move indoors to escape the cold. Others are hiding until a quick warm spell gets them moving. And then there are those that are just fine living side by side with humans, regardless of the season.
Mild winters, which have become more common in our region, can also change pest behavior. Short cold snaps followed by warmer days can confuse pests and push them into homes earlier than expected.
Common February Pests to Watch for in Maryland & DC
Spiders
Spiders are one of the most common winter sightings, and not because they’re suddenly more active. Chances are, they’ve been living in your home for months.
During February, spider sightings are common in basements, garages, and corners of homes. While most house spiders are harmless, their presence can signal other pests in the area, as spiders follow their food source.
DIY tip: Declutter and seal small holes around doors and windows.
When to call the pros: If spider activity seems widespread or persistent.
Ants (During Warm Spells)
Ants are surprisingly active during winter warm spells. A brief warm spell can be all it takes to stir colonies hiding inside walls or under concrete slabs.
Seeing ants in February doesn’t mean you have a small problem on your hands; it could mean a colony has already moved in.
DIY tip: Clean up food sources and seal entry points.
When to call the pros: If ants continue to reappear after cleanup.
Stored Product Pests
Pantry pests such as Indian meal moths, grain beetles, and weevils live in homes year-round. February is when homeowners may first notice pantry pests, especially following holiday baking and stocking up on food.
Pantry pests do not migrate from outside cold temperatures. They are introduced in packaged foods and quietly multiply.
DIY tip: Get rid of the infested food and store dry goods in closed containers.
When to call the pros: When pantry pests are found in several cabinets or areas of the home.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs do not hibernate. They do not pay attention to the month of the year.
February infestations are common following winter travel, overnight guests, or the return of college students. Due to slower activity, infestations may go unnoticed until they become full-blown.
DIY tip: Be cautious with secondhand furniture and luggage.
When to call the pros: At the first sign, early treatment matters.
Millipedes
Millipedes usually enter homes in the fall, but they are often seen in February as they roam through basements and lower levels of homes.
They don’t cause harm, but it can be alarming to see a lot of them, and it’s usually a sign of moisture problems.
DIY tip: Lower indoor humidity and seal around the foundation.
When to call the pros: When millipedes continue to show up despite moisture control.
When DIY Is Enough, and When It’s Not
Some pest problems in winter can be controlled with simple DIY prevention:
- Sealing holes and cracks
- Lowering moisture
- Storing food properly
- Regular cleaning
However, seeing the same pests repeatedly, having multiple pest problems, or having pests that don’t seem to be going away usually indicates that pests have already infested the home.
This is when professional pest control treatment makes a difference, particularly in winter when pests are more concentrated in the home and easier to control.
Why February Is a Good Time for Preventive Pest Control
Pest activity during the winter months can create problems during the spring. Catching problems early can prevent:
- Larger infestations
- Damage to structures
- Seasonal pests
Ongoing protection plans help catch problems early and adapt treatments based on seasonal changes, not just when pest infestations are noticed.
A Local Approach Matters
Pest patterns in Maryland and DC are different from other areas. This is due to various factors, including weather patterns, building styles, and seasonal shifts, all of which play a role.
This is why a local perspective is important. At Womack Pest Control, pest control strategies are designed based on what is happening in our area, month by month and season by season.
Final Thought: Winter Is Quiet, But It’s Not Pest-Free
If you’re noticing pests in February, you’re not alone. Winter pest activity is common, often subtle, and easy to underestimate.
Contact us for a quick inspection or preventive treatment today, and you can save yourself a lot of headaches down the road.