Mosquitoes can cause a lot of annoyance during the summer. Their bites create skin irritation from a reaction to the mosquito’s saliva, causing an itching red bump. Some mosquito bites can spread serious diseases such as malaria and West Nile virus. This information can help you to control mosquito populations and prevent the spread of disease.
Mosquito Information
There are around 200 different species of mosquitoes in the United States. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in different areas depending on the species of mosquito. While most lay eggs in standing water, some species, known as floodwater mosquitoes, prefer to lay their eggs in moist soil. Any moist area can make the perfect breeding ground for a mosquito.
Factors that Increase the Number of Mosquitoes in Your Yard
- Standing Water – Stagnant water is the number one factor that will attract mosquitoes to your yard. Most mosquitoes need stagnant water to lay and hatch their eggs, so any bucket or plant pot can create an attractive area for mosquitoes.
- Wet Soil – Yard and flower bed decorations such as mulch and pine straw, along with soil, can hold enough moisture for mosquitoes to nest there. Once a few mosquitoes make this their breeding ground, many others will follow.
- Blocked Drains – A blocked drain can quickly cause a build-up of water. This can create a lot of trouble because you may not be able to notice the problem until mosquitoes have already found the area and nested there.
- Shade – Mosquitoes hide in cool, shady places during the day to avoid the dry heat given off by the sun. The area of shade they choose varies from home to home. In some yards, they could take refuge in areas such as untrimmed bushes, tall grass, or low hanging tree branches. In others, they could hide under decks or porches, choosing the most suitable conditions they can find.
Mosquito Prevention
- Dump out and remove any small containers you find that could hold water around your house and in your yard.
- Make sure pools and fountains are cleaned regularly and all filters are working properly.
- In areas with wet soil or mulch, treat with mosquito-killing spray.
- Keep your gutters cleared and your drains properly maintained.
- Call a Superior Termite & Pest Control for a professional consultation.