The days are short, the nights are cool, and the leaves are starting to turn. It’s another lovely Long Island autumn day! So why are there still mosquitoes in your yard? You’d think they’d be gone by now, but they aren’t.

Mosquitoes require specific conditions to thrive, and October weather can be mild enough for these conditions to be met. Understanding when these aggravating insects are active can help protect yourself and your family from itchy bites and mosquito-borne diseases.

Do Mosquitoes Come Out in October?

Although mosquito season is past its summertime peak, mosquitoes will be a threat well into autumn. With Long Island experiencing increased temperatures due to a changing climate, mosquitoes can still be found in October and occasionally in November. Unlike summertime, mosquitoes are most active in the morning and evening, and they will be out in force during the warmth of the day instead.

What Happens to Mosquitoes in the Fall?

Although they’re active at different times of day than they are during the warmer months, mosquitoes continue to hunt for blood meals and lay eggs in the fall. With the onset of colder weather, some species die off. In contrast, the females of other species overwinter in a hibernation-like state (the males have short lifespans and typically die after mating). These females will emerge from hibernation in the spring, lay eggs, and start the cycle again.

Some of these species lay winter-hardy eggs that hibernate as embryos. These eggs are usually submerged under ice and hatch in spring when water temperatures rise, ensuring yet another generation of pests will emerge in late winter or early spring.

At What Temp Do Mosquitoes Go Away?

Generally, if it’s cool enough to see your breath at night, you probably won’t have to worry about mosquitoes. Mosquitoes, like all insects, are cold-blooded. As a result, they can’t regulate their body heat, and their temperature is essentially the same as their surroundings.

Mosquitoes become lethargic at 60 degrees, and when temperatures dip below 50 degrees, they either enter a dormant phase or die off. When it comes to some species of mosquito eggs laid in the fall, a hard frost with at least several hours of sub-freezing temperatures will kill them.

East End Tick and Mosquito Control® Eliminates Mosquito Threats No Matter the Season

If mosquitoes plague your Long Island home, contact us. We can eliminate them and ensure that they do not return. We are proud to note that all our options are family and pet safe. For those living near Southampton, please call (631) 287-9700. If you are closer to East Hampton, please call (631) 324-9700. If you reside near Southold, please call (631) 765-9700. You can always email us as well. We look forward to hearing from you!