The Hidden Damage of Desert Pests
Here in El Paso, we are lucky. With over 300 days of sunshine blazing over the Franklin Mountains, our boating season is the envy of many. But when the famous El Paso sun dips a little lower, and our "mild" winters bring those short, cold snaps with occasional freezing temperatures, most of us put our boats into seasonal storage. We cover them up, dreaming of spring days on the water, and often forget about a tiny, destructive threat lurking in our beautiful Chihuahuan Desert landscape: pests.
You might think our hot, dry, and desert climate would be a deterrent. But you’d be surprised. When the temperature drops, even an El Paso winter is enough to send desert critters scrambling for a five-star hotel. And to them, your dry-docked boat—with its cozy cushions and hidden compartments—looks like the perfect resort.
We're not just talking about a few harmless spiders. We’re talking about the primary culprits of winter boat damage in El Paso County: pack rats and mice. These rodents are masters of survival, and your boat offers them warmth, shelter from predators, and a treasure trove of nesting materials.
The True Cost of a Winter "Guest"
This is where the "hidden damage" comes in. While you're busy enjoying the off-season, perhaps visiting the El Paso Museum of Art or taking a scenic drive, these pests are getting to work.
First, let's talk about your wiring. Rodents have a biological, insatiable need to chew, and modern wire insulation, often made with soy-based plastics, is like a gourmet meal to them. They will methodically chew through critical electrical wiring, navigation light cables, speaker wires, and even engine harnesses. In the spring, you're not just faced with an annoyance; you're faced with a boat that won't start, a massive repair bill, or worse, a dangerous fire hazard from short-circuited wires.
Second, your upholstery. This is where the real estate boom happens. Mice and rats will shred your expensive boat cushions, vinyl seats, and life jackets ...
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November 11th, 2025
