What are mosquitoes?
The mosquito is a type of biting fly. Over 3,500 species of mosquitoes live worldwide, acting as a food source for many other animals. However helpful that mosquitoes are out in nature, in our yards they are a constant source of frustration and make it impossible for us to enjoy our outdoor spaces. The results of the bites they deliver are unsightly and itchy.
Mosquitoes can be active day and night, but many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn when the weather is coolest, resting from the heat during the middle of the day. We identify a mosquito by its small gray or black elongated body and one pair of thin wings.
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
Mosquitoes are considered dangerous and unwanted pests on our properties because they can transmit diseases to people like malaria (most common in developing or tropical countries), West Nile virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Mosquitoes transmit diseases to people and animals through the feeding process. They use their proboscis (specialized mouthpart) to pierce the skin of a host to feed on their blood. Only female mosquitoes consume blood meals; it is a requirement to produce viable eggs and complete their life cycle.
It is also important to note that the spread of parasitic heartworms is a serious threat to our pets in Georgia. Heartworm disease without treatment is a fatal condition.
Why do I have a mosquito problem?
In much of the U.S, mosquitoes are most problematic in the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is warmer. In warm locations like Pooler or Savannah, mosquitoes can be troublesome throughout much of the year.
Though mosquitoes can fly long distances, they usually stay close to where they hatch. Therefore, if you have breeding grounds on or near your Georgia property, you will also likely have large swarms of biting mosquitoes. In addition to standing water, things like trees, tall grass, and lots of vegetation attract mosquitoes because that is where they like to rest during the day.
Where will I find mosquitoes?
Most female mosquitoes lay their eggs in areas of standing water that collects in man-made or natural containers. Some mosquitoes will also choose to lay their eggs in dry areas that are prone to flooding.
Common mosquito breeding and gathering sites include:
- Buckets, flower pots, birdbaths
- Clogged gutters
- Woodpiles, brush piles, leaf piles
- Tree stumps and hollow trees
- Marshes, swamps, and low-lying areas
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
As outdoor pests, stopping mosquitoes from flying into your yard is difficult. The best way to significantly reduce mosquito numbers on your property is to partner with a local professional.
At Prestige Pest Control, we offer many different affordable options to control mosquitoes, ensuring we are meeting the needs of each customer we serve. To learn more about our ongoing or one-time mosquito control options, reach out to our professionals at Prestige Pest Control today!
How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?
In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from mosquitoes with the following prevention tips:
- Eliminate overgrown vegetation and tall grasses on your property to eliminate resting spots for mosquitoes.
- Fill in low-lying areas in your driveway and yard that allow puddles to form.
- Make sure your yard has good drainage.
- Store containers that can collect rainwater upside down when not in use.
- Always keep lids on trash cans and recycling bins to keep rainwater out of them.
- Remove things like tree stumps, brush piles, and woodpiles from your yard that allow water to pool in them.
- If you own a pool or water feature on your property, make sure to keep it adequately treated and make sure the water is circulating.
- Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to keep mosquitoes from getting into your home.
