How Do Mosquitoes Survive the Winter?

Mosquitoes are one of the summer's most common and irritating pests. But have you ever stopped to think about how they survive the winter? With temperatures dropping below freezing, you may feel the pesky bugs will be wiped out. However, mosquitoes are survivors and can hang around in the coldest weather.

Let's take a closer look at mosquito survival techniques.

Where Do Mosquitoes Go During the Winter to Survive?

During the winter, mosquitoes shelter and enter a state of hibernation known as diapause. In this state, their metabolism slows significantly, allowing them to conserve energy until warmer weather returns. Additionally, some mosquitoes can produce an antifreeze-like substance that prevents ice from forming inside their cells, allowing them to survive colder temperatures.

Female mosquitoes will also lay their eggs in hollow logs or places that provide a sense of relief from the frigid temperatures. When the weather warms, the eggs hatch, releasing a new generation of blood-sucking pests just in time for cookout season.

What is The Lifespan of a Mosquito?

Mosquitoes have an average lifespan of 6 to 8 weeks during summer. However, female mosquitoes can live up to 5 months if they can find enough food and water. Since their sole purpose is to reproduce, male mosquitoes have shorter lifespans than female mosquitoes, typically only living for 1-3 weeks.

The Importance of Being Prepared

It's essential to have a a plan of action to treat your home for mosquitoes because even though adult populations decrease during the winter, mosquito larvae still exist in areas with unfrozen bodies of water or underground shelters where temperatures are more consistent throughout the year. These same larvae will hatch into adults come springtime. Meaning there will be an influx of pesky bugs invading your property! Just because you can't see the mosquitoes doesn't mean they aren't preparing for their springtime invasion, which means it's time for you to get a treatment plan ready!

To protect your home and family from mosquitoes this spring, contact our experts at Guardian Pest Controlto schedule an appointment. (401) 812-3033