MISS SKEETER'S BUZZ ON BUGS

Do you ever wonder where all the bugs go during the cold winter months? Since I happen to have some very close friends who are insects, they've given me "inside information" on where they hang out in the winter.

Did you ever lift up a rock or a piece of wood during the winter? Chances are, you've discovered a wide range of insects hiding under there. These bugs, like beetles, ants, and worms, have created a warm, safe place to spend the winter. The rocks and pieces of wood (and even the walls of your house) become "hotels" for insects in the winter months. Since they are not really working, you could say that they are on a bug vacation!

When insects notice the days getting shorter (meaning the sunset is earlier) and the weather getting colder, they start looking to make their "hotel reservations." They search their environment for a nice log or a large rock to create their cozy winter hideaway.

Some insects, including monarch butterflies, travel to warmer climates in the winter. They may visit Southern California or even Mexico.

And, what about all those bees that were driving you crazy all summer? Well, bees generally hibernate within the safety of their own hive. A family of bees will gather together and flap their wings in order to create energy, which creates heat inside of their hive. The fast flapping of their wings is what causes you to hear a buzzing noise when you pass by a hive. The bees will take turns on the outside of the huddle, in order to give their friends a chance to be on the inside of the group, which helps them stay warm in bitter-cold temperatures.

Not to brag, but mosquitoes, like me, can adjust to extreme climates. So, any place that creates warmth, like rocks, logs or piles of leaves, will keep me warm.

I will continue to report to you this winter season and do my best to stay cozy and comfortable!