We all know that mosquitoes are most prevalent in the summer, especially in places like Texas along with our southern neighbors (Alabama, Louisiana, etc.). If you’ve ever tried to lie in the grass on a warm day, you’ve probably gotten up to find you have a couple mosquito bites – or more – as a souvenir. Then the cold (or not so cold) winter comes along, and you might wonder: how do the mosquitoes survive it? And better yet, how do they live and then come back for the summer?
Hibernation
First and foremost, it’s important to understand the mosquito life cycle:
- The female mosquito lays eggs in standing water. They can lay as many as 300 eggs at one time and only require a bottle cap full of water to reproduce
- The eggs will hatch within 24-48 hours
- Next, the larvae develop into pupa within 10 days
- In about two days, the mosquito becomes an adult and starts feeding after that
Some mosquitoes only live for a couple of days, while others can live for a month or more. Another fact you might not know about mosquitoes is that only female mosquitoes bite because they need the protein in our blood in order to breed! Male mosquitoes don’t bite humans or animals and feed on nectar instead. Female mosquitoes can track the carbon dioxide we exhale and follow the trail straight to you. Creepy, right?
Once temperatures start staying consistently below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, female mosquitoes start to go dormant in preparation for winter… they hibernate. They will often find holes to hide away in until warmer weather returns. They can hibernate for up to six months in freezing or waterless conditions! Now isn’t that crazy!?
Did you know… Mosquitoes can also lay eggs in frozen water? The eggs are perfectly preserved and can hatch when the water thaws and warms up to the right temperature. New mosquitoes will be growing and getting ready to feed as soon as winter ends.
It might seem impossible that such a small insect could survive a winter, but after all, mosquitoes are as old as (or possibly older than) dinosaurs. Evidence shows that mosquitoes date back to at least the Triassic Period, so they’ve survived a lot more than few icy months.
After Winter
When spring comes around, you may notice that the mosquitoes are out in full force again. This is because mosquitoes have spent the entire winter in hibernation. In order to survive after hibernation, the female mosquitoes need a meal. That’s why they are on the lookout for people wearing shorts and short-sleeved shirts! The mosquito will get her meal, rest and lay more eggs, and the cycle continues.
Mosquito Prevention
If you live in the southern states, like Texas or Florida, it’s important to be cautious when spending time outdoors this winter. The best way to do this is to carry over all of your mosquito-safe habits from the summer to the winter! Here’s are some useful tips and tricks:
- Inspect your home for standing water that could hold mosquito eggs. These items may include flowerpots, birdbaths, tire swings, grill covers, cups, and other objects where water collects.
- Unclog gutters and repair any leaky pipes or faucets on the outside of your home.
- Apply an insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus when spending time outdoors, especially in areas that don’t get much colder than 50 degrees Fahrenheit like Texas, Florida and Georgia.
- Contact MosquitoMax today for our various pest control options! Mosquitos are annoying in the summer, but they can ruin your yard any time of the year.
We’re happy to help answer all your questions regarding mosquito control, misting systems and barrier treatments. Make mosquito control a reality! We believe you should actually enjoy your yard – free from swatting annoying mosquitoes. We can help.
Contact us if you would like more information on mosquito control or to schedule a FREE Environment Analysis. Learn what your risk factors and learn how to best protect your family, kids, and pets with various mosquito control options.
Professional Treatment from MOSQUITOMAX™
MOSQUITOMAX™ can ensure your backyard is comfortable and prepped for all your upcoming outdoor activities. For the most effective control, consider a professional mosquito treatment or service. Contact MOSQUITOMAX™ today for quick and reliable service, or visit our online store to view our multitude of mosquito repelling products. You’ll soon be on your way to a festive, holiday celebration in your outdoor space!
Learn more about one of our customer’s mosquito treatment experiences here.
We also have DIY Misting Systems that are a breeze to install with our instruction manuels. Click here to learn more about our self installation mosquito misting systems!
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Phone: (281) 579-2525
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