After a summer full of bugs, you’re probably ready for a break from these pests. While cooler temperatures can cause some bugs to go away, others are able to adapt to the changing weather. Knowing what to expect from pests can help you prevent an infestation. Check out if bugs are likely to go away this fall and what to expect from the bugs that stick around.
When Do Bugs Go Away?
Many bugs can’t survive cold temperatures. For most pests, their activity ceases when temperatures are consistently under 50° F. When temperatures start to cool in fall, bugs begin preparing for winter. Some seek shelter and others enter diapause. If pests can’t find a way to escape the cold, they will die. Though not all bugs go away, you will begin to see a decrease in bug populations once fall arrives.
Where Do Bugs Go in Fall & Winter?
The bugs that are determined to survive the cold months have to find shelter. Check out a few places where bugs are likely to hide.
Their Nests
Some bugs, like bees and ants, choose to stay in their nests during the colder parts of the year. Bees will huddle together for warmth, keeping the queen at the center of the nest. Ants often burrow underground. They seal the entrances to their nests, and their activity slows down. Once spring arrives, these bugs will become active again.
Under Logs and Yard Debris
Not all bugs have a nest to hide in when it’s cold. These pests have to be resourceful. Items in your yard can act as shelter for bugs. Yard debris, logs, mulch, and rocks are potential hiding spots for bugs. Other pests will nest under the bark of trees. Any snow fall can actually help these bugs. The layer of snow on the ground acts as insulation, helping to protect bugs hidden under yard debris and mulch.
Your Home
When the weather turns cold, you likely keep your home warm and cozy. Some bugs use this to their advantage and seek shelter in your house. In fall, overwintering pests will make their way to your home. They often gather on the sides of your house before slipping inside. Once they enter your home, they find a secluded place to spend winter. When it warms up in spring, these pests will leave their hiding spots to head outdoors.
Tips to Avoid Overwintering Pests
Your house is an ideal place to overwinter, but there are ways to keep uninvited guests away. We’ve made a list of tips to help keep overwintering pests out of your home.
- Seal Entry Points: Before fall arrives, examine your home for spots where pests could enter. Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk or steel wool. Repair or replace damaged screens on doors and windows.
- Make Your Yard Unwelcoming: If pests are attracted to your yard, they are more likely to make their way indoors. Trim back vegetation so it isn’t touching the side of your home. Remove items where pests could hide including leaves, grass clippings, and branches.
- Spray Bugs Away: If you notice overwintering pests gathering on your house, you can use a garden hose to remove them.
- Create a Protective Barrier: Spraying the perimeter of your yard with our plant-based Yard Bug Spray can help to keep pests away. It kills pests on contact, and the residual repellency creates a protective barrier that helps to deter pest activity. You can also spray common entry points with our Home Bug Spray to discourage pests from entering your home.
Though a break from pests would be nice, not all bugs are willing to leave you alone. Being prepared for their arrival will make it easier to prevent and control an infestation. If you’re dealing with a pest problem, we have your back! For a more environmentally and family-friendly solution, check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.