Where Do Bugs Go In Winter?

Pesky bugs are a hassle. When the cold comes, their seeming disappearance is one thing we are grateful for. While most people are aware of the fact that bugs are more active in the summer months, contrary to popular belief, they do not simply die off when winter approaches. We hate to break it to you—even winter pest control is necessary due to bugs adapting to colder temperatures by shifting their habitats.

Bugs and Where They Migrate

Moths, butterflies, ticks, ants, springtails, bees and even homebodies all have one thing in common—they adapt and migrate to winter-friendly habitats.

But where they go exactly varies by each one.

Moths and Butterflies

These beautiful creatures with wings have the ability to winter in either their caterpillar or adult form. They can winter in a cocoon, or migrate south if they are non-hibernating species.

And butterflies tend to do just that—migrate to Mexico and other warmer winter climates where they can find some solace in the larval form. But they always come back to wreak havoc in the spring and summer.

Ticks

These winter warriors can withstand cold winter months by going into a dormant state called “overwintering”. During this time, many can be found in debris and under rocks where the ground is more insulated from winter cold.

However, once the weather drops below freezing, they will attach themselves to larger animals like deer which act as their hosts to get them through the winter until they are able to find a new, warm environment to thrive in.

Unfortunately, not all ticks are taking a rest during the winter, as blacklegged ticks can’t be killed by freezing temperatures—even female ones “wake up” for a blood meal before laying eggs during this time.

Ants

They coin the term “winter survivors” as they take the fall to get nice and full so they can live off of that body fat during the freezing temperatures. Ants will find cozy spots underground, burrowing themselves deep into the wintery earth.

Springtails

Also known as “snow fleas”, these bugs thrive in winter temperatures and can be found hopping around on the snow. They are able to tolerate winter weather by having a natural antifreeze that allows them to survive even when it drops below freezing.

But don’t worry, these creatures are harmless and it has been found that their presence in your soil means you have some pretty good soil.

Bees

These fuzzy little pollinators winter underground, seeking shelter near rocks or logs and creating a nifty system to get ready for spring. When winter comes, the queen bee lays eggs where these new bees’ only job will be to procreate and create a new hive that will be ready to get to work for the warmer months.

The old worker bees, male and queen bees will have died off come spring and the new ones will get to work as the system starts again!

Homebodies

Ah, the annoying ones. These critters can be found in your home or workplace, seeking shelter from the cold and nesting in small crevices, under furniture and behind appliances. They’ll find areas in your home like garages that are likely to be undisturbed so they can wait out those cold months and come back with a vengeance come springtime.

Spend Your Winter Pest Free with Terminix Pest Control

Defending your winter home doesn’t have to be a winter-long battle. At Terminix, our winter pest control services are designed to protect your property from winter invaders and keep them at bay all winter long. Our experienced technicians will inspect your home or business for any signs of pests, identify the source of infestation, and then recommend the best winter pest control service for your specific needs.

Terminix winter pest control services include bait stations, exclusion methods such as caulking and weather-stripping, and winter preventative treatments that will help keep out pests all winter long. Contact Terminix winter pest control services, where you can rest assured that your property is safe from winter invaders!