Where Do Ants Come From in the Winter?
WouterDuring the winter, ants go into a dormant state. In this stage, they don’t eat, drink, or even lay eggs. Instead, they are cold-blooded and rely on a source of external warmth to maintain their health.
Aside from the obvious, ants also have a few tricks up their sleeve to keep them warm in the winter. They build clusters and tunnels to help retain body heat. They also produce a substance called glycerol that helps regulate their body temperature. Some ants even produce an antifreeze-like substance that helps them survive the winter.
In the fall, ants increase their intake of fats and carbohydrates. They store these foods in their bodies until it’s time to hibernate.
When the temperature drops, ants go into a state called diapause. They don’t eat, drink, or lay eggs, but they don’t need much energy to keep them warm. They aren’t very active during this time, and their activity may decrease when cold fronts hit.
The winter may be a time when ants are not visible, but they can still be spotted in a variety of places. They may be found under baseboards, in appliances, or in the hidden parts of your home.
During the winter, ants may even bring a swarm indoors in search of warmth and food. They may also seek out business locations and commercial buildings. They may even travel along downspouts and tree branches.
Some ants are able to survive in the winter by hiding in piles of debris and accumulations of dirt. They may also find a way to get into your home through a crack or hole.
