Yes! Insects Winter in a Variety of Ways
In general, insects can make it through winter’s cold temperatures the best when the temperatures are stable, not changing drastically through thawing and re-freezing. Many insects will seek shelter and nourishment through the winter in a mixed variety of tiny-habitats. Some of these tiny bug homes are under the dirt, inside the wood of fallen logs and trees, and even in outgrowths of plants. A certain kind of fly is known by fishermen to be present in certain galls in winter, and the fly larvae are smartly used to bait fish. Layers of snow are very beneficial to insects because snow insulates the soil and turf and keeps the temperature surprisingly consistent. Honeybees have been found to remain partially active in hollow trees through the generation of bee body heat. They can consume up to 30 pounds of accumulated honey over the winter months which makes this feasible. This heat energy is made by the oxidation of honey, and moved freely in the hive by the wing fanning of worker bees. Insects that are inactive during the winter months undergo a state in which their development, maturation and actions are temporarily delayed, with a rate of metabolism that is elevated enough to make sure they stay alive. This dormant situation is called diapause. In contrast, when vertebrates go through hibernation, they have minor activity and actually add tissues to their bodies.
Bugs in Memphis May Not Have a Layer of Snow to Hibernate In.
In Memphis, insects may not get a layer of snow to help them stay warm throughout the winter. Insects will seek shelter where they can find it, even inside your home. Rosie’s Pest Control will provide you with a free inspection for your peace of mind.