Do Bed Bugs Hibernate in the Winter?

Bed bugs are notoriously unpleasant pests to find in your home. They are also hardy, resilient insects that can withstand a variety of conditions. When it comes to bed bugs though, many of us wonder if they tolerate very cold conditions, and if not, do they hibernate in the winter?

Is There a Bed Bug Season?

While bed bugs don’t technically have an active season and can be found year-round, they are more active in certain regions and during certain months. Bed bugs survive off blood meals, and aside from requiring a reliable food source, they are not particularly picky about their living conditions. Because of this, their behavior is not as tied to the seasons as other pests, though there are some factors that can contribute to increased or decreased activity.

Bed Bugs and Hibernation

While bed bugs don’t technically hibernate, they can enter a dormant state called diapause. Certain insects enter diapause if they are exposed to inappropriate temperature ranges for prolonged periods of time.

When temperatures drop below approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit, bed bugs may slow their heart rates as a survival mechanism. During this state of minimized metabolic activity, bed bugs can survive for months without feeding. As a result of diapause, bed bug activity can be decreased in the winter months due to their temporary dormancy. However, most homes are temperature controlled, so bed bugs that are comfortably inside may not enter diapause at all.

Bed Bugs Are More Active the More People Travel

Since bed bugs are hitchhikers, we tend to see an uptick in infestations during summer months and the holiday season. As people visit their favorite destinations and their loved ones, they can unknowingly shuttle bed bugs from one location to another. This is one reason why bed bug activity was reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. But, as people become accustomed to traveling again, bed bug outbreaks may increase.

How to Avoid Bed Bugs

Since bed bugs can be active any time of the year, it’s important to stay diligent about preventing an infestation. Bed bugs can be found in any environment, from the most affordable motels to the most luxurious hotels.

• When you travel, regardless of where you are staying, check the bed frame, box spring, and mattress for signs of bed bugs.
• Bed bugs like to hide in tiny crevices and only emerge late at night, so try to move quickly as you check your bed.
• You may notice live insects, blood stains, or tiny specks of bed bug droppings – all of these are solid signs you may be staying somewhere with bed bugs.
• If you suspect your room has bed bugs, notify management immediately so they can follow protocol.

Even if you don’t see signs of bed bugs, when you get home from a trip, make sure you wash all your clothes in hot water. You should also thoroughly vacuum your luggage. These two tasks take very little time and will drastically reduce the likelihood of creating a new infestation in your home.

Eliminating Bed Bugs for Good

Alexandria Pest Services is equipped to handle bed bug infestations of all kinds. Our trained bed bug experts can provide you with a free inspection and a recommended treatment plan to ensure your pest issue is handled as quickly and effectively as possible.

Contact us for Your Pest Control Needs!

If you find that you are having a problem with bed bugs, rodents, termites, or other pests and need an exterminator, call Alexandria Pest Services at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional evaluation. We can help you get rid of these invaders in your home or office! Contact us today to learn more.