Fall and wintertime often bring relief from many of the typical pests that bother us throughout the spring and summer months. However, not all bugs go away during this time. Some go into hibernation, while others seek refuge from the cold weather where they can find it.
Where Do Pests Go During Winter?
So where do bugs, insects, and rodents go when the temperature drops? The most common answer is one none of us want to hear: into our homes. While some hibernating pests may burrow underground, live in trees, or hives, others find their way into our living spaces.
Whether they’re in our homes or not, many pests spend their winters in a state of diapause, which is a dormant state they enter to hold off the cold temperatures. Similar to bears and other hibernating animals, some pests can slow down their metabolism and survive on the food reserves until the weather warms up again.
When Do Pests Start Hibernating?
Most pests that hibernate begin the process when outdoor temperatures start to reach 30°F or colder. The majority of bugs and insects aren’t able to survive temps below this threshold.
Pests That Hibernate
These are some of the most common pests that hibernate during the winter.
Beetles
Certain species of beetles like ladybugs, boxelder bugs, and stink bugs hibernate when temperatures drop. But they may still be seen in and around homes, simply moving a bit slower than usual.
Mosquitoes
Most mosquitoes die during winter but their eggs and larvae are able to survive the cold temps of winter.
Houseflies
Like mosquitoes, many flies aren’t able to last through cold weather. They may have larvae that are stored in warm areas and last through the cooler months.
Bees
Most species of bees are able to live out the winter in their hives on reserves they gathered during the warmer months.
Wasps
Wasps are another flying pest that usually dies during the winter. There are some who find warm places to survive, such as inside trees or cracks and crevices around buildings.
Moths
Unlike other insects that go seeking shelter from the cold, moths build their own. Many moths are able to hibernate in their cocoons until the weather is warm enough to emerge.
Butterflies
Just like moths, butterflies are able to survive winter by weaving their chrysalis before winter arrives. However, monarch butterflies migrate south for the winter, similar to ducks, geese, and other birds.
Pests That Don’t Hibernate
While many homebound pests hibernate or enter a state of diapause during the winter, there are others that tend to simply make their way indoors. Some of the most common pests you’ll still find around your home during the winter include:
• Silverfish
• Bed bugs
• Fleas
• Spiders
• Cockroaches
• Crickets
Take Care of Active Pests at Any Time of the Year
There are always pests ready to be a nuisance in and around your home. If you’re dealing with bugs or insects during the time that others are hibernating, our team is here to help you get rid of them. Reach out to Killingsworth Environmental today and see what makes us the best pest control company in Charlotte, NC!
