Winter is coming, so we may think that all the bugs and insects will die. That is wrong. Bugs and insects are resilient. They have survived and evolved for millions of years, developing the best ways for to continually pester us. Seasonal bugs or insects such as crane flies have a life cycle of one year or less, and in the spring these pests, which look like giant mosquitoes, are everywhere, signaling that winter is over. The adults didn’t survive past mating season, but the eggs that were laid last year are hatching.

To survive winter temperatures at times of 60 below zero, they produce a protein in their blood that creates a sort of bug/insect antifreeze. They go in and out of this stasis, depending on the weather. In Texas, this enables them to procreate year-round. Temperatures and pesticides do not affect the eggs that are laid.

The reason bugs and insects affect us and our homes in the winter is that bugs can smell water and are drawn to pipes where they leave a pheromone trail for others to follow. If there is the slightest opening into home, they will find it. Once in they find food along with the water, that home just became their winter residence, protecting them from the elements, and they are pro-creating.

There is a lot we can do to protect ourselves besides a can of bug spray. Expandable foam, caulk, steel wool and copper mesh are our friends. Clear caulk is another remedy. Use the expandable foam in small squirts. Check doors, windows and pipes; the weatherstripping and door sweeps on doors; and windows for air leaks. Those are openings where our uninvited guests come in.

Outside, put steel wool or copper mesh into the weep holes to deter visitors coming in. Wear gloves to protect fingers. Roll it out and cut six inches. Stretch it out then wad up and stuff into the weepholes with a screwdriver. Check all pipes, wires and cables coming into the house.

Trim trees to six feet from the house. This will also keep trees from damaging the roof. Keep bushes trimmed. Trim six inches up from the trunk and don’t let them touch the house. Avoid leaf and clutter buildup around the home, otherwise there will be a thriving insect city. Don’t keep firewood up against or close to the house—that also attracts termites.

All bugs are insects, but not all insects are bugs. Either way, they are all still pests.