Summer has passed, and the nagging mosquitoes, gnats, and flies no longer surround us as we step outside. But where exactly did they go? West Des Moines pest control experts Pro-Staff want you to know where common insects and other pests spend the winter and when to expect them next year.
Insects
Most insects have 2 escapes from winter’s challenges: migration or a trick similar to hibernation called diapause. Diapause is triggered not by weather, but by shorter hours of sunlight in the day. As fall turns to winter, the majority of insects pack on extra calories before finding a cozy shelter and entering diapause. Most of the time the shelter is a few inches underground, but can also be below tree bark or under rocks or leaf litter. Inside their tiny bodies, these insects produce glycerol that acts as bug antifreeze to keep them alive even well below freezing temperatures.
Less commonly, insects simply brave the cold. The European corn borer has been proven to live at -40° F, even when the extracellular water inside its body freezes. The upper limit of survival for most insects is above -30°. Remember, snow acts as an insulator so many ground-dwelling insects will benefit from even a deep snowfall.
Overwintering insects may suspend animation as eggs, larvae, nymphs, pupae, or adults. Larger wasps overwinter high in the eaves or attics of homes. While they are dormant, they still look intimidating. Removing them may require the skillful hands of an exterminator.
Mice and rats
Winter is difficult for mice and rats living outside. Their food source disappears, and they are not able to maintain a proper body temperature. They head for shelter where food is abundant, and your house meets those requirements. Unfortunately, mice and rats carry parasites and diseases that they pass on to people.
Once in your home, mice and rats do not hibernate. They create a cozy nest inside your walls, in attics, in drawers, deep in closets, or within crawl spaces below your home. Being nocturnal, they trot out of hiding at night to forage on dropped cereal or dog food, trying a variety of “treats” on the way such as computer wiring, carpet, insulation, or clothing.
The spring awakening
As the sun rises earlier and sets later, insects will begin to surface from their winter homes or return from their winter abodes. Mice and rats who use your home as a warm home full of food, though, might find it to their liking to remain safely inside.
If you find mice, rats, or insects using your home as an overwintering location, call your West Des Moines pest control team Pro-Staff at 515 279-PEST (7378). They can quickly eradicate your unwanted winter guests for good.