Do Ants Go Away in the Winter?
WouterDuring the winter, ants have to adapt to cold weather. They need to keep warm to survive, and some species will still scavenge outdoors despite the temperatures. They may even infiltrate businesses, but that’s not the only way they are able to survive.
In the fall, ants start to accumulate fat, which is necessary for their survival during the cold months. They can also make use of a variety of foods to keep them warm and provide extra energy. They can also dig deep into the ground to warm up and stay warm.
Some ants will actually use their bodies to make an antifreeze-like substance that will keep them from freezing to death. They also have a clever use of glycerol, a compound found in antifreeze.
There are many ants that stay active year-round. They are mostly found in the home. They may live in the baseboards, under the molding, or near the pipes. They may also invade your kitchen or bathroom. In fact, they may even vacation in Tijuana when Daylight Saving Time ends.
While ants aren’t going to disappear from your home during the winter, you may see a drop in activity, especially when cold fronts move in. Some ants will also hibernate during the colder months. Some will even find ways to travel through downspouts, tree branches, and even bathtubs.
When the temperature drops below 75 degrees, ants will find a warm spot to hibernate. These ants will also close off entryways to their mounds and nests.
