What Happens to Mosquitoes in the Winter?

There have been snow flurries, and people have hung up lights and ornaments for the winter holidays. It is December, and winter has officially begun. So why did you get bit by a mosquito in your own home? Mosquitoes typically shut down as the weather gets colder, but they have become more active despite the cold temperatures due to many factors. Let’s look at some and how they can be avoided or eliminated.

1. 1. Do Mosquitoes Bite During Winter?

If it’s a warm enough winter, mosquitoes are as active as ever, but mosquitoes are scarce when deep winter rolls around.

1. 1. What do Mosquitoes Eat in the Winter?

When mosquitoes are active, they typically dine on the nectar of plants, fruit juices, and other sugary plant juices. Only the female mosquito, who drinks blood for protein and iron, develops eggs.

If a mosquito becomes trapped in a greenhouse, it would likely carry on as usual. In winter, they typically either die or hibernate away until it warms up.

1. 1. Where Do Mosquitoes Go In Winter?

Out in nature, a female mosquito typically hunkers down to hibernate in an old log, a crack in the ground, or another animal’s dwelling. In more urban areas, mosquito.org says they can over-winter in garages, attics, and culverts.

1. 1. What Temperature Do Mosquitoes Become Inactive?

Most mosquito species become inactive once temperatures are consistently below 50°F (10°C).

1. 1. How Do Mosquitoes Survive the Winter?

Many don’t. In many species, the males only live for about ten days, and then they die after mating some time in the fall. Some females enter a state of hibernation called diapause, where they fatten up in the fall and become dormant for up to six months by burrowing in rotten logs or cracks in the ground.

Before settling down for the long winter’s rest, the females will typically lay a final batch of eggs. The eggs also survive by entering a state of diapause, so their development halts until the weather warms up.

1. 1. Why Are There Mosquitoes in Winter?

Most insect species hibernate or die in winter, so why do you still see a few mosquitoes buzzing around?

It is possible that a species called Culex pipiens molestus, or the London Underground mosquito, has adapted to our urban environments. They specifically nest in sewers and subway systems and then find their way into your homes.

There have been infestations in many major cities, and according to this WNYC story, not too long ago in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Fortunately, they aren’t known to carry the Zika virus, and it is unlikely to transmit West Nile.

1. 1. How Can I Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Winter?

You can do several things to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Firstly, check your screens to ensure there aren’t any holes a mosquito or any other pests could enter.

Then you should check your home (inside and out) for anywhere that might accumulate the standing stagnant water mosquitoes love for laying their eggs. This also goes for big damp piles of leaves! Empty any standing water in houseplant drainage trays, and don’t let dishes sit in the sink.

A laundry room, attic, bathrooms, or anywhere that stays warm and humid is ideal for mosquitoes to breed. If you think mosquitoes are trying to spend the winter in your home, call East End Tick Control® for a solution.

East End Tick and Mosquito Control® Eliminates Mosquitoes

East End Tick and Mosquito Control® is Eastern Suffolk County’s most-experienced pest control company. Since 1997, we have provided the Twin Forks and East End with the most effective extermination methods. Protect yourself and your family from disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks this fall and winter by requesting a free estimate now or call our Southampton office at (631) 287-9700, our East Hampton office at (631) 324-9700, or our Southold office at (631) 765-9700.