As temperatures drop across Hermitage and the rest of Mercer County, pests begin searching for warm, protected places to spend the winter. Two of the most common cold-weather intruders are spiders and mice. While the snow and freezing temperatures outside may slow down outdoor pests, indoor pest activity often increases this time of year.

Hermitage’s mix of older homes, basements, garages, and wooded surroundings makes it a hotspot for winter pest issues—especially in December when rodents and insects are desperate to escape the cold.

Why Spiders Move Indoors in December

Spiders don’t enter homes to escape the cold—they’re looking for food. As other insects move indoors to stay warm, spiders follow.

Common indoor spider locations include:

• Basements and crawlspaces
• Garages and sheds
• Attic storage areas
• Corners of rooms and closets
• Behind boxes or clutter

Why they surge in winter?

• Increased indoor insect activity (their food source)
• Warm, undisturbed spaces
• Holiday decorations and storage bins offer perfect hiding places

Most household spiders are harmless, but sudden sightings—especially in basements and storage areas—can indicate a larger pest ecosystem inside your home.

Why Mice Invade Hermitage Homes in Winter

Mice are one of the most common winter pests in the region. With nighttime temperatures freezing, they look for warm spaces where they can build nests and access food.

How mice get in:

• Gaps in doors or garage seals
• Cracks in foundations
• Open vents or utility lines
• Gaps around basement windows
• Unsealed exterior openings
  

Signs of mouse activity:

• Tiny droppings along baseboards or in cabinets
• Scratching or scurrying sounds in the walls
• Chewed food packaging or pantry items
• Damaged insulation or nesting materials

Because mice can reproduce quickly, even small activity in December can become a full infestation by January or February.

Top December Pest Prevention Tips for Hermitage Homeowners

You can reduce December pest activity with a few simple preventive steps:

1. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Inspect and seal openings around the foundation, windows, doors, and utility lines. A mouse only needs a space the size of a dime to enter.

2. Reduce Indoor Clutter

Spiders and rodents love to hide in boxes, holiday decorations, and storage piles. Keep basements, attics, and garages organized.

3. Store Food Securely

Use airtight containers for baking supplies, pet food, and pantry items.

4. Control Moisture

Use a dehumidifier in basements and repair leaks, since moisture attracts insects—spiders’ food source.

5. Set Traps in High-Risk Areas

Strategically place rodent traps near walls, behind appliances, and in garages.

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

If spiders or mice are already inside your Hermitage home, DIY solutions may not be enough. A professional can identify how pests are entering, eliminate active infestations, and implement winter-specific prevention strategies.

With December being one of the busiest pest months in Hermitage, early intervention can save time, money, and stress throughout the winter season.