The number of insects on the ground varies greatly depending on the season. In general, during warmer seasons like summer and early fall, you can expect to find more insects outdoors.
Insects go through different life cycles throughout the year. Some species have a one-year or multi-year lifecycle that is synchronized with seasonal changes in temperature and moisture availability. Cooler temperatures and reduced daylight hours often lead to slower growth rates and lower survival chances for these cold-blooded creatures, making them less active during winter.
As soon as days get longer and warmer in spring (usually around late April), insect populations start to rise again. Spring rains provide nutrients for microorganisms that insects depend on for food, allowing them to thrive. Peak seasons often see the most vibrant and diverse beetle, ant, bee, wasp, butterfly, and cricket activity.
During hot summer days, many insects enter diapause (a state of dormancy) or hibernation-like conditions, reducing their visibility and making it seem like they’ve disappeared. As temperatures rise in late spring or early fall, some insect species may become more active within the warmer temperature ranges near human habitats or food sources.
Keep in mind that these observations can vary depending on specific environments, regional weather patterns, and microclimates around your location (e.g., proximity to water bodies, sunlight intensity).