Are Roaches Worse In Winter?

As the weather turns colder, we like to bundle up, snuggle in warm blankets, light comforting fireplaces, and generally stay indoors. But what about insects?

It is a myth that mosquitoes die off in winter. What they do is closer to hibernating like bears when the temperatures fall, though technically their process is called “diapause.” Termites burrow more deeply into the soil to keep warm and become dormant until spring. So, where do roaches go during the winter?

Do Cockroaches Die-Off In Winter?

Cockroaches are some of the most hearty, adaptable, hard-to-kill creatures on the planet. That said, they are sensitive to changes in temperature. While they do not die off in winter, they do seek shelter.

According to Pestworld.org, the American Cockroach will “mass migrate into homes” during the colder months. They prefer to live in warm environments with plenty of food and moisture. When the weather is nice, they tend to stay outdoors, but when it turns chilly, they seek shelter. Houses, grocery stores, commercial buildings, and even hospitals see an increase in cockroach infestations in the winter.

Roaches like to be near water and food sources and are most likely to settle in or near kitchens and bathrooms, which provide both to them. According to This Old House, these bugs are not only creepy but can “damage furniture and packaged goods, and they can spread allergens and trigger asthmatic reactions.”

How Do I Know If I Have Roaches?

First, if you see one roach, you know there are more. Don’t wait before contacting us to discuss treatment options.

Other signs you may have a roach infestation:

1. Cockroach skin or dead roaches
2. Small droppings that look like pepper or coffee grounds
3. Small pill-shaped eggs (usually tan, black, or brown); roaches usually lay eggs in dark places like out of the way corners or under furniture
4. A musty smell that is semi-sweet or oily (made by cockroach pheromones)
5. Disturbed food packaging

Rid of Cockroaches in Your Home

Roaches are unsightly, unsanitary, and can cause health problems. Infestations are often worse in the winter months as they seek shelter and warmth in our homes and businesses.

With more than 20 years of pest control experience, Twin Forks Pest Control® experts can offer you a protection plan to keep your property pest-free all year round. Contact us today for your free estimate at (631) 287-9020 if you’re in Southampton, (631) 324-9020 if you’re in Easthampton, or (631) 298-0500 if you’re in Southold.