Snowbirds, Welcome Back to the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Warmth!

Howdy there, friends!

If you’re packin’ up the RV or flyin’ down from the frosty north to spend your winter under the Arizona sun, welcome back to the Valley of the Sun. We’re sure you’ve missed the warm desert breeze, cactus sunsets, and golf-course mornings. But let me tell ya straight — while you’ve been away, the local critters may’ve been settin’ up camp in your home and property. Roof rats, scorpions, spiders, and even termites see a vacant house as an open invitation.

That’s why we at Train Station Pest Elimination put together this Snowbird Return Checklist — to help you settle back into your winter property without any nasty surprises.

1. Inspect Exterior Before You Unlock the Door

A quick walkaround is your first line of defense.

Start by takin’ a good look at your property before you even step inside. Check the garage, eaves, roofline, and foundation for gnaw marks, droppings, or holes. Critters like pack rats and pigeons love quiet homes, and your place might’ve been their personal Airbnb all summer.

Tip: Pay close attention to areas near citrus trees or pool equipment — that’s where roof rats and rodents like to linger.

And here’s some good news for every Snowbird: Train Station Pest Elimination is pleased to offer a complimentary exterior and grounds inspection before you even arrive. That way, you’ll unlock your home knowin’ your yard and walls are critter-free, or you'll have a plan in your hands ready to go. 

2. Peek Inside for Signs of Unwanted Guests

Once inside, let your eyes and nose do the scouting.

Open the doors and windows to air things out. Then, check for droppings in cabinets, pantries, and closets. Look for spider webs in corners, wasp nests in window tracks, and keep an eye out for chewed wires around appliances. Critters don’t always stay outside, especially if they found a way in through vents or cracks.

Tip: If you notice an odd smell, it might not be the AC filter — sometimes rodents leave behind more than just droppings.

3. Flush Out Plumbing and Check for Leaks

Pests love water even more than the desert sun.

Turn on faucets, flush toilets, and check under sinks. Scorpions and roaches are drawn to damp spaces, so if there’s a drip or leak, you may have some company you didn’t invite.

Tip: Run water in seldom-used drains and pour in a bit of vinegar — it helps keep sewer roaches from crawlin’ up.

 4. Fire Up the HVAC and Look for Pests in Ducts

Your AC isn’t just for comfort — it’s also a pest’s favorite hideout.

After months of sittin’ idle, your HVAC system may’ve become a highway for pests. Change the filter right away, and give your system a test run. Listen for odd noises that might hint at rodents in the ductwork.

Tip: A pest inspection paired with HVAC service is a powerful one-two punch for peace of mind.

5. Don’t Forget the Garage and Storage Areas

Critters see storage boxes as luxury condos.

If you left holiday decorations, golf gear, or patio cushions in storage, now’s the time to check ‘em. Scorpions, crickets, and spiders love quiet, dark spaces. Shake things out before bringin’ them inside.

Tip: Keep storage bins sealed tight and raised off the ground to discourage pests from settlin’ in.

6. Refresh Your Outdoor Spaces

Yards tell the real story of who’s been hangin’ around.

Trim back bushes, rake up debris, and check for burrows near the foundation. Pool areas, sheds, and patios can all hide evidence of pests. If you’ve got citrus or palm trees, check for roof rat activity — they’ll chew right through to get a snack.

Tip: Clear standing water and keep irrigation tidy — it’ll help keep mosquitoes and roaches away.

Why Call Train Station Pest Elimination?

Now, partner, even with the best checklist, pests can be mighty sneaky. That’s where Train Station Pest Elimination comes in. As a veteran-owned, local, small business, we know North Phoenix homes, ranches, and estates like the back of our hand. Whether you’re in Cave Creek, Anthem, Carefree, or up near Stetson Valley, we’ll make sure your winter stay is safe and pest-free.

With our TSPE GOLD pest protection program, we'll keep our eye on your property while you're away, we'll complete the checklist per your instructions, and have yer property ready for you soon as you return.

Our motto says it best: “Take ’em to the Train Station.” That means when pests show up, we give ’em a one-way ticket outta your home — for good.

Did You Know?

Many Snowbirds rollin’ back into Phoenix each winter aren’t travelin’ alone — they’re bringin’ their horses with ’em! 

Every winter, many Snowbirds haul their horses down to Cave Creek, Carefree, and North Phoenix to trade snow for sunshine and saddle time. While there’s no exact count, one large Arizona horse-camping facility reports that about 60% of their winter guests bring horses along, showin’ just how strong this seasonal migration really is.

And here’s a fun local twist — many horse property owners in the Valley earn a little extra income by rentin’ out stalls and corrals during Snowbird season. It’s a win-win: visiting riders get safe, local stabling for their horses, and year-round residents keep their ranches lively and profitable through the cooler months.

So when the Snowbirds return each year, they don’t just bring back golf clubs and convertibles — they bring back the heartbeat of Arizona’s winter ranch culture. 🐴

🌵 Ready to enjoy your winter in the desert without pests ridin’ shotgun?

Give Train Station Pest Elimination a holler today at (480) 316-5612 or book your service online. We’ll make sure your Arizona home is ready for a warm, pest-free season.