While some pests like mosquitoes leave us alone in the winter, there are a few insects that seek shelter in our homes as soon as the temperatures drop.
Among these are Wolf Spiders, Carpet Beetles, House Crickets, and Box Elder Bugs.
While these pests are relatively harmless, they can be quite a nuisance for homeowners.
Just like humans, most insects want to stay warm.
And they have very clever ways of doing so, including moving into your house.
Some pests go into a state of "diapauses" which keeps them dormant until warmer weather appears.
Some of these insects can survive in temperatures as low as -94o F!.
Dormant insects are either freeze-susceptible or freeze-tolerant.
Insect species, size and stage of growth also determine if they will overwinter - perhaps in your home.
Some insects have a built-in antifreeze system that releases a cryoprotectant called ethylene glycol - the same chemical used in car antifreeze liquid.
This supercools their bodies above their freezing point.
Other pests actually freeze - at least their body fluids do.
Most insects are like little baggies of water.
If they can squeeze this water out, they can lower their freezing point.
That's why you are more likely to find ants, small spiders and small houseflies inside, rather than grasshoppers or bees.
Other insects survive outdoors.
They can stay warm inside the insulation of a good fluffy snow cover.
The south sides of trees stay warmer on sunny days, giving insects some respite from the cold.
Depending on how cold the winter is, and how much snow versus sunshine you have will determine what comes inside, and what will be waiting for you just as you start spring cleaning.
In my next few articles, we'll talk about the most common insects you may find inside your home.