Mosquitoes in the Fall

Summer is coming to and end.  What does that mean?  It means no more vacations to the beach, the kids are starting a new and exciting school year. The hot and humid weather is coming to and end. Some people look forward to the end of summer because they’re eager to say goodbye to mosquitoes. Unfortunately, mosquitoes don’t disappear with the hot summer temps.  What do they do?

They thrive in cooler weather. Mosquitoes can be just as active as in the summer. Since they are cold-blooded, they do hibernate or die off, but only once temperatures are consistently below 50°F. So, in the early fall months, they feel right at home in the cool, but not cold, weather. The cooler temperatures that most of us look forward to, also mean mosquitoes are more active during the day, instead of in the evening.

The mosquito spends the fall preparing for winter. Certain species lay winter-hardy eggs that can survive the cold and then hatch when Spring comes with warmer temperatures and rain. The females of other species mate, fatten up, and go into hibernation in protected places, such as in a log or under a house. When the weather warms up in the spring, the female emerges and lays eggs. Very cold temperatures signal the end of the biting. Some mosquitoes may be able to survive the winter, but they certainly won’t be out biting you once the temperatures drops. The first frost is typically the time when you can say goodbye to those buzzing pests.