Uninvited Guests: Pests You’re Most Likely to See In Winter

Winter might give us a break from mozzies and flies, but it’s no holiday when it comes to other pests.

As the temperatures drop, certain creepy crawlies and furry intruders start making themselves a little too comfortable inside our homes. In South Africa, cockroaches, rodents, and black ants are some of the most active winter invaders.

Here’s why they’re a problem—and what you can do about them.

Rodents: Seeking Warmth and a Free Meal

When it’s cold outside, rats and mice head indoors in search of food and shelter. They’re agile, clever, and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings—making your kitchen, garage, or ceiling the perfect hideout.

Signs of a rodent problem include:

• Droppings in cupboards or along walls
• Gnaw marks on food packaging or wiring
• Scratching sounds, especially at night

Rodents don’t just make a mess—they pose real health and fire hazards too. Early intervention is key.

Cockroaches: The Winter Survivors

You might think cockroaches disappear in winter, but the truth is they just move indoors. Kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms offer warmth and moisture—their ideal environment.

 Cockroach activity can lead to:

• Allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups
• Contaminated food and surfaces
• Rapid infestations (they breed quickly once settled)

Don’t ignore the odd roach sighting. If you see one, chances are there are many more hiding nearby.

Black Ants: Still Marching On

While many insects’ slowdown in winter, black ants are persistent. They’ll invade homes looking for sugar, crumbs, and anything else edible—especially in dry, cool conditions when food is scarce outdoors.

Common issues with black ants:

• Trails in kitchens or along skirting boards
• Nests in walls, under paving, or in garden beds close to the house
• Repeated re-infestation if the queen isn’t eliminated

Surface sprays only offer temporary relief. To stop the cycle, the source needs to be properly treated.

Tips to Keep Winter Pests Out

• Seal up gaps under doors and around windows
• Store food in airtight containers
• Take out rubbish regularly and don’t leave pet food out overnight
• Fix leaking taps or pipes that provide water sources
• Keep garages, storage rooms and seldom used areas clean and clutter free

Conclusion:

Winter may be a time to cosy up indoors—but pests have the same idea. If you’re spotting signs of cockroaches, rodents or black ants this season, don’t wait for the problem to grow. Prevention and prompt treatment can save you time, stress, and damage in the long run.

Need help identifying a pest or want expert advice? Flick Pest Control has been protecting South African homes and businesses for over 50 years.

Remember “One Flick and They’re Gone”

Give us a ring on 087 056 1021, drop us an email at enquiries@flickpest.co.za or drop us a comment on our blog or social media platforms.