While bed bugs thrive in warmer temperatures, their resilience extends to colder environments. They can survive, albeit in a dormant state, at temperatures significantly below what humans find comfortable. For example, exposure to freezing temperatures for extended periods can kill them, but brief dips below freezing may only slow their activity. This ability to withstand cold makes understanding their behavior in various climates essential for effective control.
Knowing how temperature affects bed bug activity is crucial for pest management. It informs the development of effective eradication strategies tailored to different climates and seasons. Historically, colder climates were thought to offer some protection from infestations. However, the increased use of central heating in modern homes has largely negated this advantage, making temperature-specific control methods even more critical.