How Winter Freeze Affects Insects in Central Texas
Texas doesn’t experience deep freezes often, but it gets cold enough that native insects are built to survive it. Because of this, insect activity in Central Texas isn’t steady all year—even when winter days feel warm.
Many insects enter a natural resting phase called diapause during cold weather. In this state, they stop developing and slow their metabolism to conserve energy. This is why you don’t see many insects in winter, even on 70–80° days.
Insects also survive freezes by seeking shelter. Many move underground where temperatures are more stable, while others produce natural “antifreeze” proteins in their bodies that help protect them from cold.
As spring approaches, native plants will bloom, and insects will begin to reappear. This is when we’ll really see how well they survived winter.
The insects most affected by freezes are usually non-native species from warmer climates. These insects aren’t adapted to long periods of freezing, and some may decline—especially if the plants they depend on were damaged by cold weather.
If you notice increased insect activity as temperatures rise, that’s normal for the season. If pests become a problem, Swoboda Pest Control Inc. in Bryan, Texas is here to help with knowledgeable, local service.
