Mosquitoes
About
What are mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are a type of fly belonging to the family Culicidae. They are small with a segmented body, wings, three pairs of long legs, and elongated mouthparts that the females use for biting mammals and drinking blood and that both males and females use to feed on plant nectar. The mosquito life cycle consists of four life stages – egg, larva, pupa, and adult; the first occurring in water.
There are three mosquito species commonly encountered in our area. Two, Culex and Anopheles mosquitoes, are more active during dusk and dawn, while the other, Aedes mosquitoes, are active during the day.
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
Mosquitoes can be quite dangerous to host around your property due to their ability to transmit serious diseases. The illnesses that these pests spread through their bites include the Zika virus, West Nile virus, dengue, and malaria. Not every mosquito will carry a disease, but the more mosquito bites you receive, the higher your chances of contracting a serious illness that requires medical attention.
Additionally, mosquito bites may trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals, and receiving many bites will only increase your chances of a severe reaction. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing after receiving a mosquito bite, seek medical attention immediately.
Where do mosquitoes live?
Mosquitoes near your home prefer to live in moist, shady areas that help keep them out of the heat and help them to keep from dehydrating. Preferred areas include long grass, fallen trees or hollow logs, marshy areas, and under overgrown foliage and shrubs. All mosquito species also prefer being near areas with standing water, as this is where they lay their eggs.
How can I prevent a mosquito infestation?
Preventing a mosquito infestation may seem overwhelming to the residents in the area, but you can employ some simple preventative tips to defeat them:
- Take care to reduce standing water around your property, as even an inch of still water can encourage mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
- Treat water features such as birdbaths or ponds with animal-safe larvicides to kill mosquito eggs.
- Cut back any long grass around your property and remove leaf litter and debris that creates shady, humid hiding places for mosquitoes.
- Always utilize window and door screens around your property and keep exterior doors and windows closed as often as possible.
Also, remember to apply a mosquito repellent when outdoors and wear long-sleeved clothing and pants to stop mosquitoes from being attracted to you and delivering itchy, dangerous bites.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
If you want to get rid of mosquitoes, reach out to our expert Nassau County pest technicians at All State Pest Control. With our eco-friendly and effective mosquito treatments, you will be rid of these pests in no time and ready to enjoy your yard again, completely safe from the menace of mosquitoes and their bites. Contact All State Pest Control today to get started.