Continued Freezing Could Affect Pests

FAIRFAX, Va. (February 6, 2014) – The Northeast, and even the South, has been slammed with snow and ice over the last month. Although harsh on humans, this unusually bitter weather could have a beneficial side effect for regional pest populations.

Many insects have methods to keep from freezing in the cold such as producing an antifreeze-type liquid or entering a hibernation period called diapause. However, the good news is that continued freeze-thaw cycles increase the likelihood of pests not surviving. Also, invasive pests who are less well-adapted to local conditions may have a more difficult time making it to spring with the current weather trends.