What happens to pests during the winter?
Techniques that insects use to survive during winter
Bears hibernate when the weather turns cold, birds fly south, and we, as humans, dress in layers and curl up by the fire to remain warm. But what happens to pests like termites, ants, and mosquitoes? Many people believe they simply disappear, but in reality, this and other insects frequently come up with plans to survive the winter. Find out more below about how particular pests endure the elements.
Ants
You don't see an army of ants marching across your kitchen counter in the dead of winter very frequently. That doesn't mean they aren't close by, though. Ants are excellent at spending the winter outside, especially in our own yards. They overeat throughout the fall months in an effort to gain weight so they can go for days or weeks without eating. Because the winter chill drastically lowers their body temperature and productivity, they lock off their colony and hibernate in deep dirt or beneath rocks until spring. Ants will emerge from their wintering locations once the weather rises, energized and prepared to crash the upcoming backyard barbecue.
Bed Bugs
Because they can survive in temperatures ranging from almost absolute zero to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, bed bugs are very challenging to eradicate. But after a few days in temps below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, they frequently pass away. The bad news is that our homes offer bed bugs the ideal environment for survival throughout the colder months.
Cockroaches
Since they have existed for millions of years, cockroaches have developed into some of the most adaptive creatures on earth. But can they endure the harsh weather? Generally speaking, as long as they have free access to a warm, damp environment, the majority of cockroach species can survive all year round. For instance, the German cockroach prefers a humid indoor environment near supplies of food and moisture. As a result, this species frequently establishes itself in home bathrooms and kitchens, particularly during the winter. The American cockroach, on the other hand, prefers warmer climates and will reside outside. When the temperature drops, significant numbers of this kind of cockroach go inside residences or larger commercial structures including restaurants, supermarkets, food processing facilities, and hospitals.
Mosquitoes
During the summer, it is unavoidable to come into contact with insects and get those painful, red mosquito bites. You might be shocked to learn that mosquitoes do not disappear when Old Man Winter arrives, though. Contrary to popular opinion, these biting insects spend the winter in secure areas like hollow logs, where they hibernate. Female mosquitoes awaken as the weather gets better, look for a blood source to feed on, and start laying eggs.
Termites
The particular species of termites and the climate in which they inhabit have a significant impact on what happens to them throughout the winter. Subterranean termites will burrow deeper into the ground in colder areas, below the frost line, to keep warm. Other species, like dry-wood termites, will look for shelter in dry wood. Young male and female termite swarmers emerge from their nests after the last freeze, usually in the spring when the temperature reaches approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit, in search of a partner and a new nest location, which frequently can be within our homes. Termites can be active all year round in warmer climes or heated dwellings with controlled temperatures.
Call us at 718-710-0330 as soon as you notice this pests in your house.
