Thursday, January 16, 2014

COLD BUGS NOT THE ANSWER

 
 
Thursday, January 16, 2014
 
 
27.5 degrees here on the mountain this morning. No wind at all and the moon is reflecting nicely so my vision to the edge of the field and into the softwoods is clear right now. There's a chance of some snow flurries today as it will remain a little colder than the past three days but it will still be warm enough to work outside comfortably. This time of year I am in the woods as much as possible, widening roads and cutting out new trails. It's a bigger job than some think but for me there is a sense of peace when it's just me and the critters of the forests. It's nice to stop and sit on a log, pour a coffee and watch curious chickadees come in or red squirrels approaching with cone in mouth to join me for a snack.
 
I have heard for years that cold temperatures during the winter kill certain insects. In recent years the summer time temperatures have continued to exceed anything on record and as such the influx of new, never-seen-by-me-before-bugs continues. To think that cold temperatures might put the damper on some of these was somewhat comforting but today I find that is not true.
 
When you get a chance, take a look at this piece from the Entomological Society of America. It will answer some questions but still probably leave you in doubt until spring arrives and you get to make your own observations. The example of the emerald ash borer is clear and easy to understand, just not very encouraging. If you have any personal observations, please share.

http://entomologytoday.org/2014/01/13/falling-temperatures-do-not-necessarily-mean-fewer-insects/?blogsub=confirming#subscribe-blog


Writing from the mountain above Peacham Pond where the temperature remains the same as when I started writing but the moon light was replaced by falling snow. Wow! Karl the Wonder Dog and I walked carefully as snow covered ice is tricky. Be safe. Travel well.

George Africa
The Vermont Gardener
Vermont Flower Farm
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