How Do Mosquitoes Live in Cold Weather?

During cold weather, many mosquitoes enter into a state of hibernation. They do this to survive the winter months and extend their lifespans. Some species also hibernate as embryos in eggs.

Female mosquitoes lay eggs before entering into hibernation, and they emerge when they are ready to mate. During this period, they are dormant and add weight to their body by switching from blood to sugary food. They may seek out shelter in animal burrows, culverts, or small containers.

During this time, they do not eat or drink. Their bodies go into a dormant state, and they store nutrients in their bodies. This type of hibernation is called diapause.

Some species will come out of their hibernation state when the weather warms up. Some will die before they make it to the spring. Other mosquitoes will continue to mate and lay eggs through the winter.

Other species will go into a dormant state when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This does not kill them, but it slows down their reproduction.

In warmer climates, some mosquitoes will become inactive during the cooler seasons. These insects will not bite people. They may take advantage of holes in the foundation of your home or lay their eggs in the ground.

Some mosquitoes will also hibernate in hollow logs or other hollow structures. They can lay their eggs in standing water, in crevices, or in the bottom of a hollow log.

Despite their lack of activity during the winter, mosquitoes can still transmit disease. Local, state, and federal agencies have been funding mosquito-borne disease surveillance and management.

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