Mosquitos don’t seem to bother us until we have a red, itchy bite on our skin. Mosquitoes are most definitely an annoyance and will surely ruin an evening outside. There are 176 known mosquito species in the United States and they can pose a health hazard to people and animals. Over 1,000 Americans experience illness or death as a result of a mosquito bite every year. Mosquitoes can carry eastern equine encephalitis and West Nile virus that can lead to brain damage and even death. Knock Em Out Pest Control delves further into mosquitoes below.
What Time of Year are Mosquitoes Most Active?
Most of us think about mosquito season occurring in the hot, summer months, but it begins earlier than you think. Almost all mosquito species hibernate during the winter months and emerge when the weather starts to warm up. The temperature will usually determine when the mosquito season actually starts. When temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit, most mosquito activity will start. So, you can expect mosquito populations to increase as temperatures increase. The hottest summer months will be when mosquito populations are at their peak.
How Do You Prepare for Mosquitoes?
When we see mosquitos and experience bites is usually when we start some sort of mosquito control. The problem with waiting is that the breeding population has already been well established. The process needs to start well before they have a chance to propagate. Keep in mind, as the weather warms, the mosquito breeding cycle time shortens and results in an increase in the number of mosquitoes around your home.
Can You Mosquito-Proof Your Yard?
You can never start too early when it comes to mosquito-proofing your home. The best thing you can do is make your yard less inviting to them. You also need to make sure they don’t have easy access to the inside of your home. Where are potential problems?
• Remove Standing Water. Any object that can collect water needs to be removed because these objects can give mosquitoes a perfect place to breed. They only need a small amount of water to breed so don’t take any chances. Old tires, flower pots, birdfeeders and buckets are just a few examples.
• Clear Gutters. Leaves and other debris can clog gutters quickly and create standing water that will attract mosquitoes. Clean them out to keep mosquitoes away.
• Fill Low-lying Areas. Ditches and other areas that collect water after a storm or when the winter snow melts need to be filled in to avoid potential problems.
• Fill or Remove Hollow Logs. Hollow logs also need to be filled in or removed to eliminate standing water collection. Doing so will also remove spots for them to hibernate over the winter.
• Repair Window Screens. The smallest tear is all mosquitoes need to get into your home. Replace or repair with a 16-18 mesh for the best mosquito and other pest control.
• Repair Cracks & Leaks. Repair cracks and leaks in your homes foundation and exterior walls to prevent easy access for mosquitoes. Cracks and leaks can also create pools of water.
• Use Yellow Bug Lights. Yellow bug lights may not keep mosquitos away, but they will make your property less attractive to them.
Mosquito Control
While there are quick fixes to mosquito control, they only last a few weeks and will not be a permanent solution. Hiring professionals will ensure an effective, lasting protection for the entire mosquito season. Contact Knock Em Out Pest Control today to avoid those itchy bites!
