Where Mosquitoes Go in Winter

During the winter, when the weather gets colder and the air becomes less humid, mosquitoes stop moving around and seek shelter. They might be found in rotting wood, in holes in the ground, and in dark, damp areas. They might also take advantage of any holes in the foundation of your home.

Several species of mosquitoes lay eggs in the winter, but they only hatch when the weather is warmer. This type of development is known as diapause. They reduce their activity and nutrient intake to conserve energy for the coming summer. Some mosquitoes can actually raise the level of glycerol in their bodies to keep them warm.

Some species of mosquito lay their eggs in freezing water, which will survive for months. Other mosquitoes lay their eggs in the soil, which will remain dormant until warmer weather returns.

Some mosquitoes even dehydrate to avoid freezing. However, only the most extreme cold temperatures can kill a mosquito.

A female mosquito can survive for up to six months in hibernation. She uses fat to sustain herself during the cold months. She lays up to 300 eggs at a time. She then develops into a pupa in about seven to ten days. She then emerges from the pupa and sets out to find a blood meal.

Another type of mosquito, the saltmarsh mosquito, lays its eggs on the soil, which will hatch when the temperature rises. This species, like the oh-so-famous snow mosquito, belongs to several different species.