What Happens to Insects in the Rain?

We all know that April showers bring May flowers, but are they also ushering unwelcome guests into our homes and yards? It seems like springtime is prime time for wet weather pests – whether they are of the creeping, crawling, or flying variety. What happens to insects when it rains… and how does that impact local homeowners?

Do Insects Sense Storms?

Insects are able to sense atmospheric pressure changes that signal incoming bad weather. Some will then modify their behavior to protect themselves from rain and other adverse conditions.

For example, spiders move closer to ground level or leave their webs in order to shelter from impending rain. Honeybees cease foraging and return to their hive to wait out bad weather. Beetles pause mating activity in advance of windy or rainy conditions. Flies bite more frequently ahead of storms, feeding to build strength before bad weather arrives.

Can Insects Fly in the Rain?

Some bugs take shelter from the rain, while others are relatively unbothered. Many small, winged insects fly in all but the heaviest rain.

Mosquitoes are especially well-adapted to bad weather flight. In light rain, they make small, nimble targets for raindrops. In the event they are hit by a raindrop, they are protected from trauma by their extremely tough exoskeletons. They then use their water-resistant hairs to break free from the droplet as it falls. The ability to fly in the rain allows them to continue feeding during conditions where other insects may need to take shelter, decreasing their competition for blood meals.

Does Rain Get Rid of Bugs?

Heavy rain may deter some bugs from flying for a while, but – for the most part – they have evolved to hunker down and survive bad weather. Other bugs actually live in water, so they thrive in wet conditions. Some (like mosquitoes) spawn in standing water… so their populations increase after it rains.

Does Rain Force Bugs into Your House?

Rain, especially when it is heavy or prolonged, may force ground-dwelling insects out of their flooded nests. As they seek shelter, they often find their way into your home, garage, or outbuildings. Once inside, they take up residence anywhere they can gain access to safety, food, and water. This includes attics, basements, walls, drains, trash bins, cabinets, or clutter piles.

Flying insects that are not well-adapted to rainfall often take cover around the perimeter or your home – under the roofline, or around windows and door frames. This brings them one tiny crack away from the interior of your home.

Rain Can’t Fix Your Pest Issues, But We Can

Because you can’t count on the weather to reduce pest problems, Twin Forks Pest Control® is here to eliminate unwanted visitors during the rainy season and all year long. We are your East End Long Island pest specialist, with over two decades of experience in locating and removing pests on your property. For a free estimate, contact us online or call (631) 324-9020 in East Hampton; (631) 287-9020 in Southampton, or (631) 298-0500 in Southold.