Does Chilly Weather Kill Bugs?

Cold weather does kill some bugs, such as male mosquitoes as well as all of the members of wasp, hornet, and yellowjacket colonies, except fertilized queens. These queens hibernate during cold weather, emerging at the first sign of warm weather to form new colonies. You may not see as many insects during cold weather because bugs become inactive in cold weather. Some bugs hibernate under the soil, such as ants, while other insects survive in a semi-hibernation state known as diapause, in holes and stumps. Bugs in all developmental stages can go into a suspended state of diapause, some converting the water in their bodies to glycerol that works like antifreeze to keep them from freezing. Nymphs of dragonflies, mayflies, and stoneflies overwinter at the bottom of ponds and streams that do not completely freeze in the wintry weather. Because most cockroaches cannot survive temperatures below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, roaches try to find warm, dark spaces, such as crawl spaces and attics during chilly weather. You do not see as many bugs in cold weather because bugs become inactive at 44 degrees. Monarch butterflies migrate to warmer places before chilly weather comes. Warm spells in the winter may result in killing bugs when temperatures drop again suddenly. Snow cover can help insulate hibernating bugs and regulate the ground temperature, optimizing chances for bugs to survive during the winter. While you may not see as many bugs during the winter in West Florida, bugs can remain active year-round at temperatures in the 60s and 70s the winter.

If you suspect bug or pest activity in your West Florida home or business, do not hesitate to contact Pestwise. With more than 65 years of pest control experience in Pinellas County and Palm Beach County, our pest control technicians are reliable and knowledgeable. Contact us today to request a free pest inspection!