Climate change is rapidly changing all aspects of our planet and natural world, with pests being one of them. A rise in temperatures is leading to a rise in pest populations, their active periods and their geographical reach. But exactly how is climate change directly affecting pests and what does this mean for the future? Let's have a look at these altered patterns in more detail:
Warm Winters
Our winters are becoming a lot milder, with the 2024-25 winter being a prime example. Winters used to be a natural form of pest population management known as the ‘winter kill’. Now pests are surviving and reproducing during what was our cold seasons. It means when spring comes around, populations are considerably higher.
Earlier Spring Emergence
Warmer temperatures are enabling pests to emerge and survive earlier and remain active later into the year. This disrupts the natural synchrony between pests and their host plants.
Shifts in Pest Distribution
Climate change is allowing some pests to expand their geographical range. What used to be unsuitable areas have now become favourable due to changing temperatures and weather patterns. Some new pests which have become more common in the UK are the Asian Lady Beetle and Asian Tiger Mosquito.
Increased Reproduction
Higher temperatures can accelerate the development and reproduction rates of some insect pests, leading to an increase in population every year.
Altered Behaviour
The changes in weather patterns can alter pests behaviour such as migration patterns, feeding habits and nesting.
So, how will this affect us? Well, these changes have a knock-on effect on the environment such as disrupting interactions between plants and pests which can lead to imbalances in ecosystems.
New species and new behaviours will present new challenges to pest controllers who will have to adapt treatments. Control strategies will have to evolve to take into account changing conditions.
Focusing on pest prevention and pest-proofing has never been so important. For a trusted expert pest control company, give us a call today and one of our friendly team will be happy to help: 020 8668 5477.