What happens to common pests during the winter months

We often associate pest problems with warmer seasons. However, it’s important to understand how common pests adapt and behave during the winter months in South Africa. In this article, Flick Pest Control explores what happens to ants, flies, mosquitoes and cockroaches during the winter season and how their behaviours may impact your pest control efforts. Understanding these dynamics can help you take proactive steps to prevent infestations and maintain a pestfree environment throughout the year.

Ants

During the winter months, ants undergo changes in their behaviour to ensure survival. Many ant species become less active and reduce their foraging activities. They may retreat to their nests, which are often located underground or in protected areas, to seek shelter from the cold temperatures. Some ants, like Argentine ants, may form massive colonies to generate heat and sustain their populations. While ants may be less visible during winter, it’s crucial to remain vigilant as they can still infest your property, seeking warmth and food indoors. Proper sanitation, sealing entry points and addressing moisture issues can help deter ants even in the colder months.

Flies

Flies, known for their annoying presence, also experience changes in behaviour during winter. As temperatures drop, many fly species enter a dormant state or seek refuge in warmer environments. Some flies, such as house flies, may hibernate or lay dormant as pupae in protected areas like compost heaps or animal waste. However, certain species of flies, like cluster flies, seek shelter indoors to survive the cold. Properly sealing windows, doors and other potential entry points can help prevent fly infestations during winter.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are primarily associated with warmer seasons, but their activity does decrease during winter in South Africa. Female mosquitoes, responsible for biting and laying eggs, become less active as temperatures drop. Mosquito larvae development also slows down or ceases in colder water. However, it’s important to note that stagnant water sources, such as puddles or containers, can still harbour mosquito eggs or larvae. Proper drainage and elimination of standing water can help reduce the risk of mosquito breeding even during winter.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are notorious for their resilience and ability to survive in various environments. While they prefer warm and humid conditions, certain cockroach species can adapt and remain active during winter. In South Africa, German cockroaches are commonly found and can thrive indoors throughout the year. These pests can survive in heated spaces, kitchens and other areas where they can find food, water and shelter. Maintaining good sanitation practices, sealing cracks and eliminating food sources are essential to prevent cockroach infestations, regardless of the season. Although the activity of ants, flies, mosquitoes and cockroaches may decrease during the winter months, it’s important to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid pest problems. While some pests may hibernate or become less active, others may seek shelter indoors to survive the cold. By practising proper sanitation, sealing entry points, addressing moisture issues and eliminating food and water sources, you can significantly reduce the risk of infestations throughout the year.

For more information visit: www.flickpest.co.za