In Louisiana, bees are one of the most active insects in the spring and summer. All types of bees are essential to our ecosystem due to the fact that they are pollinators. During the warmer months of the year, they are found in abundance in our gardens, parks, and neighborhoods. But what happens to bees when colder temperatures start to sneak in during the winter? Many bees will die off, while some actually go into an overwintering state similar to hibernation.
The experts at Dugas Pest Control are here to share everything you need to know about bees and hibernation in the winter.
Winter Bee Activity in Louisiana
Bee activity peaks in the late summer and lingers through the fall depending on the weather. Bees are less likely to be active when the temperature drops below 50°F. The three most common bees in the winter all react to cold temperatures differently:
- Bumblebees: All bumblebees in a colony except the queen will die if temperatures become too cold. The queen bees will hibernate, or overwinter, by digging small holes in the dirt.
- Carpenter bees: These wood-destroying bees can remain dormant through the winter in their nests. During the winter months, young carpenter bees that hatched in the summer will hibernate in their nests. During the summer, older bees will die after larvae are laid.
- Honey bees: For honey bees to survive the winter, they must have a robust population with a secure hive and a large store of honey. Male honey bees die off, leaving the female bees to crowd tightly together in their hive with the queen in the middle. The female worker bees will vibrate and shiver around the queen bee, keeping alive until warmer days return.
How to Prevent Winter Bee Problems
You don’t have to worry about an infestation during the winter, but it’s a great time to start preparing for the coming months. Simple pest prevention methods can go a long way to keep bees and other insects out in the spring and summer. Seal cracks and crevices around the exterior of your house to prevent pests from entering. Consider planting your garden away from the perimeter of your property, or only growing non-flowering shrubs. Fit your windows and doors with tight-fitting screens, and make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Lastly, keep your yard tidy and fill in any holes left by animals to eliminate nesting spots for bees or wasps.
Looking For Safe Bee Removal in Baton Rouge?
A local bee control expert should be contacted if you have bee problems at any time of year. Our team will identify potential nesting sites on your property or areas where stinging insects may spend the winter. As spring and summer approach, we can also prepare you for pests. Contact us today to get started!