Bed Bug Hibernation Facts

Insect Diapause

Don’t truly hibernate in the same sense of the word that many other critters do by overwintering in response to seasons of cold temperatures.

When you think about this question for a moment, it does seem reasonable that bed bugs do not hibernate since they usually live in a structure with consistent room temperatures.

Preferred Temperature:

The temperature range that people like is just about the same range that bed bugs prefer. This means that they do not hibernate and can be active in the winter months if they are inside a temperature controlled house or apartment.

Diapause:

Bed bugs, like most other insects will go into diapause, a state of inactivity that causes the insect to become dormant if conditions such as temperature and humidity are particular unpleasant.

Sub-Optimal Temperatures:

Many insects and other animal behaviors are affected by sub-optimal temperatures that will reduce or cease reproduction. This also causes them to overwinter and slow down their metabolism to conserve energy and activity in order to survive the cold temperatures of winter.

However, as noted above, bed bugs usually are not exposed to these sub-optimal temperatures, yet when bed bugs are exposed to cold they die at temperatures of 0° F if held at this temperature for about four days.