Did you know that mosquitoes can be a year-round pest in Houston? Even in the “winter” months, certain species can survive our mild temperatures and occasional warm spells. This means that pesky bites and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases can linger longer than you might expect.
Crusader Mosquito Control is your year-round partner in the fight against these unwelcome guests. We’re here to help you reclaim your backyard and enjoy a bite-free environment, no matter the season. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make your property a mosquito-free zone!
Houston Winters Can Be a Mosquito’s Paradise
You might think that winter’s chill would send mosquitoes packing, but the reality is a bit more complicated. While it’s true that most insects slow down or die off in cold weather, mosquitoes have some clever survival strategies up their sleeves. Understanding a bit about their biology helps explain why they can be surprisingly persistent, even in Houston “winter.”
The mosquito life cycle involves four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. It’s the egg and larval stages that are key to their winter survival. Mosquito eggs can withstand cold temperatures and lay dormant in water or moist soil, waiting for warmer conditions to hatch. Similarly, larvae can enter a state of reduced activity, essentially “hibernating” in water until spring arrives. Some adult female mosquitoes can even enter a form of dormancy called diapause, where they seek shelter and wait out the cold.
Houston’s climate plays a big role in mosquito persistence. Our winters are generally mild, with periods of warm weather that can rouse these dormant insects. Add to that the abundance of water sources – from bird baths and puddles to drainage ditches – and you have ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed and survive even in December or January. They can also find refuge in sheltered spots like garages, sheds, or under decks, further increasing their chances of making it through the winter.
Common Mosquitoes in Houston
Houston is home to a variety of mosquito species, each with its own tolerance for cold weather. Among the most common culprits are the Southern House Mosquito and the Asian Tiger Mosquito.
The Southern House Mosquito is a year-round resident, known for its ability to breed in even small amounts of stagnant water. While less active in winter, it can still emerge on warmer days, especially in sheltered areas.
The Asian Tiger Mosquito, recognizable by its distinctive black and white stripes, is a more recent arrival but has quickly adapted to our environment. This species is known for its aggressive daytime biting and can be a particular nuisance in the fall and spring, though it is less cold-tolerant than the Southern House Mosquito.
Get Backyard Mosquito Control for Your Yard
Don’t let mosquitoes win – take charge and reclaim your backyard with the help of Crusader Mosquito Control! Get a free backyard mosquito control estimate from our team and let us help you create a mosquito-free oasis all year round.
