Winter in Washington often brings chilly days and lots of rain. You might think the cold weather would force insects into hiding, but many homeowners are surprised to spot ants indoors during this time of year if you’re wondering why, it may be a sign of a hidden problem and even a reason to find a pest exterminator before things get worse.
Ants and Cold Weather
Ants are cold-blooded insects, which means their activity depends on the temperature around them. When it’s warm, ants stay busy collecting food. When it’s cold, outdoor colonies usually slow down and rest. But if ants build nests inside your home, the heat keeps them active all year long. That’s why you may notice ant trails in your kitchen or bathroom, even in the middle of winter.
Why Ants Appear Indoors in Winter
1. Indoor Colonies Stay Protected
Ant colonies inside walls, floors, or attics stay warm and hidden. These nests don’t feel the effects of winter weather, so ants keep moving and foraging.
2. Searching for Food
Even in winter, ants still need food. They are quick to find crumbs on the floor, sugary spills on counters, or open pet food bowls. Kitchens and bathrooms are favorite spots because they provide both food and moisture.
3. Attracted to Moisture
Washington’s damp climate gives ants plenty of water sources. Leaky pipes, wet wood, or condensation on windows can attract them. Carpenter ants especially love soft, moist wood, and they may tunnel into it to make their nests.
4. Rain Pushes Them Inside
Heavy rain can flood outdoor nests, driving ants to find safer, drier spaces. Homes provide warmth, shelter, and plenty of resources, making them the perfect refuge during storms.
Common Ants Found in Washington Homes
During winter, several ant species may show up indoors:
- Odorous House Ants: Small brown ants that give off a strong smell when crushed. They often gather near food and water.
- Carpenter Ants: Large black ants that tunnel into wood to build nests, sometimes causing damage to walls or floors.
- Pavement Ants: Usually nest under sidewalks or driveways, but may sneak in through small cracks in the foundation.
Signs of Winter Ant Activity
It’s not always easy to know if ants have moved inside. Look for these warning signs:
- Trails of ants near sinks, counters, or pet bowls.
- Small piles of sawdust or wood shavings, which could mean carpenter ants.
- Ants are coming from cracks in walls, windows, or baseboards.
How to Prevent Ants in Winter
You can reduce the chance of ants becoming a problem with these simple steps:
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Check doors, windows, and baseboards for tiny openings and seal them tightly.
- Clean Often: Wipe counters, sweep floors, and keep food stored in sealed containers.
- Fix Moisture Issues: Repair leaks, unclog drains, and dry damp spots around the house.
- Move Firewood Away: Keep woodpiles and yard debris away from the foundation.
- Watch for Patterns: If you see ants in the same places again and again, it may point to a hidden nest inside.
Why Winter Ants Matter
Spotting ants in winter isn’t just a small nuisance. It often means they’ve built a colony indoors. Odorous house ants can spread quickly through walls, while carpenter ants can damage wooden structures over time. Tackling the issue early prevents bigger and costlier problems later.
Final Thoughts
In Washington, ants don’t always disappear when the weather turns cold. Warm homes, easy food, and plenty of moisture give them everything they need to keep active. By sealing entry points, cleaning up food and water sources, and paying attention to signs of infestations, you can keep ants from taking over your home. And if the problem doesn’t go away, don’t wait find a pest exterminator who can identify the source and stop ants from coming back.
