Summer is here and although we like it a lot because it is usually synonymous with holidays, beach and relaxation, there are other things about it that we don’t like as much, such as insects. There are people who are already covered in mosquito bites and homes where ant infestations have become a real problem, but is it our imagination or is it true that there are more insects in summer this year? The truth is that during the winter we forget and when summer comes we think that there are more insects than the previous year.
The impact of climate on insect proliferation
High temperatures and heavy rains are the main factors that contribute to the proliferation of insects during the summer. This year, temperatures have been unusually high since the beginning of the season, which has accelerated the life cycle of many insects. In addition, although the beginning of the year was dry, heavy rains at the end of spring have created an environment conducive to the reproduction of these little creatures. Mosquitoes, for example, find stagnant water to be the perfect place to lay their eggs. Likewise, other insects such as ants and cockroaches benefit from these climatic conditions to expand their colonies. It is important to take preventive measures, such as eliminating stagnant water and keeping food well sealed, to minimize their presence in our homes.
Climate change and its influence on insect populations
Climate change is a major factor in the variability of insect populations. Alterations in weather patterns, such as rising temperatures and irregular rainfall, have created a favourable environment for the proliferation of certain species. However, although there appear to be more insects this summer, recent studies indicate that the populations of many species are declining dramatically.