Cimex lectularius, commonly known as the bed bug, is generally considered a creature of warmth, thriving in temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to temperatures significantly below this range impacts their activity and survival. While they may not perish instantly in cold weather, their life cycle and behaviors are dramatically affected. For example, a sustained period of freezing temperatures can kill bed bugs, especially those exposed directly to the elements. However, within insulated environments like homes, they can find harborage and survive even during colder months.
Understanding the relationship between temperature and bed bug survival is crucial for effective pest management. This knowledge informs strategies for both preventing infestations and eliminating existing ones. Historically, colder climates experienced fewer bed bug infestations, in part due to the naturally occurring temperature fluctuations throughout the year. However, with modern heating systems prevalent in homes and buildings, these temperature variations are less extreme, providing bed bugs with more stable and survivable environments. This highlights the need for proactive measures regardless of climate.
