Even if Florida gets hit with a cold spell that actually drops the temperature below freezing, we know it’s going to pass quickly. If possible, a lot of us stock up on snacks, grab the remote—or device of choice—and settle in for some binge-watching. For the most part, though, the subtropical climate reigns supreme. Some winter days can even be described as downright balmy! However, the warmer temps coupled with a high level of moisture provide the perfect environment for bugs, such as roaches, spiders, and termites to thrive year-round too.
Not all of the insects we see during the cooler months are those that cause our noses to wrinkle in distaste though.
Eye-catching insects
The Monarch butterfly, for instance, is very active here in Florida throughout the winter season. Their stunning deep orange and black patterned wings immediately draw the eye. Florida is programmed in their migration flight plan. Lucky us! Some of these beautiful travelers make our state their permanent home. It’s likely for that reason that so many gardeners purposefully plant flowers that attract Monarchs to their yards.
Monarchs don’t harm our environment in any way. In fact, they feed on caterpillar larvae found on the underside of milkweed leaves. Most people don’t care for the milkweed and consider it a favor that the Monarchs eat this noxious plant!
The zebra longwing was named Florida’s state butterfly in 1996. Its black wings sport several narrow yellow stripes and some have vibrant red spots at the edges of the wings close to the butterfly’s body. Adult zebra longwings have a 72 to 100-millimeter wingspan. Their bright yellow eggs resemble tiny ears of corn. They are seen throughout the year in the central and southern portions of our state.
The cloudless sulphur butterfly is a large yellow butterfly that is found throughout the majority of the United States. Our climate allows it to flourish throughout the cooler months of the year.
Back to bugs that bug you
We mentioned a few bugs that actually cause some to shudder when mentioned in their presence. For example, roaches are nasty creatures. They can literally overtake a household if left unchecked; infesting electronics, closets, and stored boxes—now, we’re shuddering. Not to mention the horror stories of visible piles of roach feces discovered inside people’s homes. The word “ick” doesn’t even begin to cover it.
As you can imagine, spiders are another species of insect that most people believe they could live without. Of course, that’s because reacting with shrieks on the norm when even the tiniest eight-legged creature comes into view seems a little silly the older you get. It’s important to note that there are only two types of venomous spiders that are native here in the Sunshine State. They are the recluse and widow spiders.
Termites are wood-damaging insects responsible for causing your home structural damage if activity isn’t detected. There is no “off” season for these bugs. When the temperature drops below their normal range, they just go a bit deeper underground as they search for food sources.
These will bug you too
Silverfish are active during the winter here as well. They may go undiscovered for a period of time giving the infestation a chance to get a strong foothold. Silverfish feed on clothes and paper, so our attics usually afford them plenty to eat. A few simple steps can help cut down your chances of an infestation.
They are:
- Don’t place anything against your house that the silverfish can climb on or look to as a food source.
- Repair leaky faucets and address water-prone areas
- Store important papers and clothing in airtight containers
Biting flies are aggressive insects that are known to drive people indoors if they don’t have an enclosed space outdoors to gather. Mesh screen enclosures are one way to keep them out of the area. The finely woven mesh allows fresh air to flow throughout the space but flies, other bugs, and, even, noseeums aren’t getting through the barrier it provides.
Species of biting flies that make Florida their home include:
- Deer fly
- Horsefly
- Sandfly
- Stable fly
- Black flies
Don’t invite them in
Below is a list of ways to make your home unattractive to bugs.
- Seal all cracks, crevices, and holes in your foundation and entryways
- Vacuum or sweep floors regularly after food prep, meals, and snacks
- Wipe down food prep areas and dining surfaces after meals
- Keep up with the dirty dishes
- Declutter your yard and inside your home
- Keep grass cut short
- Keep tree limbs trimmed away from your house
Following these tips makes you a proactive homeowner. Keeping bugs out, to begin with, is a lot easier than dealing with them once they find their way into your home. Be proactive! But, hey, take some time to enjoy those butterflies, too, will you? And, if there are any roses nearby, inhale deeply as you’re strolling past. You’ll be happy you did.
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