Everything seems to slow down in the winter. We’re slower getting out of bed in the morning, it takes longer for our cars to start, and when it snows, it takes longer to complete our daily commutes. But what about pests? Do they slow down as well in colder weather? The answer is...some of them do. Here are a few types of pests that become dormant during the winter and what you can do about the ones that don’t.
Pests that Become Dormant
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one type of pest that become dormant during the winter months. Actually, it’s only the female mosquitoes. They store up fat and go into a hibernation-like state. The males just die.
Moths
Also, many species of moths are able to do something similar. In fact, the arctic woolly bear moth spends most of its life in this state, creating a sugar called alcohol glycerol to keeps itself alive no matter how low the temperature drops.
Pests That Stay Active
Rodents
While groundhogs and chipmunks may hibernate in winter, the rodents that typically give us the most trouble, such as rats and mice, do not. They instead survive the cold by seeking shelter, often times in our homes.
Termites
You may hope that termites would take a break from eating your house, at least until Christmas is over, but you’ll be disappointed. Termites feed all year.
Borers
The Eauropean corn borers is another pest that, to the chagrin of farmers, remains active during extremely cold temperatures. They’re so resistant to the cold that they can survive even if the water inside their bodies has frozen solid.
Cockroaches and Spiders
Lastly, cockroaches and spiders are also very active in the winter. Like rodents, they are more prone to enter your house in the cold for warmth and food.
Keeping Your House Pest Free all Year
Winter may give you a brief reprieve from some pests, however, most of them prove to be unencumbered by the weather, and may even give you more trouble as they rush to use your house as a shelter. Make sure that all points of access in your house, including door gaps, dryer vents and cracks in your foundations are sealed tight, and that no food is left lying around for any pests to feed on.
Pest control is a constant affair, and infestations can occur no matter what the weather is like outside. Fortunately, all it takes is a little upkeep and you should be worry free. For more information, or to receive quality pest control services, give A-Academy a call today!
