Bugs seemingly disappear in the winter because the cold weather makes them less active. While many bugs die off, others find unique ways to survive the winter weather. Some find a warm area to hide. Many bugs go into various dormant states like hibernation or diapause. And a small number of bugs, such as Monarch butterflies, do disappear because they migrate to warmer climates. Other bugs, such as honeybees, spend the winter in hollow areas of stumps or other holes converting stored honey into body heat. Instead of pollinating, the honeybee's main job is to keep the queen warm and alive. Ants hibernate in the soil until warmer weather. Some bugs significantly reduce in population size and most die off like wasps, hornets, and yellowjackets. Only the fertilized queens live to the spring. Similarly, male mosquitoes die off in the winter. But, female mosquitoes change their diet and habits to survive the winter conditions.
Some bugs enter a state of diapause which is like a semi-hibernation. These bugs enter a dormant state. A key characteristic of diapause is these bugs regulate their body temperatures by turning the water in their bodies into glycerol. This chemical exchange works as an anti-freeze to keep their bodies from freezing entirely. Bugs become inactive during the wintertime because they can’t function properly in cold weather. However, in states like Florida, California, and Texas bugs can remain active year-round as the temperatures remain warm in some areas.
If you are experiencing winter pests, or want to prevent the spring bugs from entering your home, Pest Management, Inc. has your back. With years of experience treating private and commercial properties across Travis and Harris, we are ready to help with any pest control issues at any time of the year.