When Does Mosquito Season Begin?

When Does Mosquito Season Begin?

Spring is around the corner and so is mosquito season! Mosquito season tends to start sooner for those of us who live in the southeastern region of the United States. Mosquitoes are a major nuisance and can even be a danger to you, your family, and pets if prevention methods aren’t put in place. Keep reading to discover more about preventing mosquitoes.

Remove Standing Water

Mosquitoes only need a small amount of stagnant water to successfully breed. Identifying these areas around your home before it’s too late is one of the best ways to prevent mosquitoes in your yard. Start looking for items that can hold water, like toys, buckets, outdoor pet bowls, bird baths, and tire swings. Be proactive in removing or changing the water out daily in these types of items.

Utilize Mosquito-Repelling Plants

These pesky pests might seem impossible to remove but another way to repel them from your yard is to plant mosquito repelling plants. Some flowers and plants can keep these pests away from your house, especially citronella, marigold, lavender, rosemary, catnip, and peppermint.

Call a Pest Professional

If these tips aren’t helping in keeping mosquitoes away, then a monthly mosquito control service is another great option. You don’t have to keep battling mosquitoes alone and a local pest control company can have your back during this season with mosquito reduction programs that target both adult and larvae mosquitoes.

Enjoy your yard this spring and request a free mosquito estimate now!

When Should I End Mosquito Treatments in Naples?

When Should I End Mosquito Treatments in Naples?

Naples Pest Control: Mosquito Season

Having effective mosquito control in Naples, Florida is imperative. Without year-round support from your local pest control company, you are bound to confront many mosquitoes around your property. With warm temperatures nearly year-round, your yard is the ideal environment for mosquitoes to lay their eggs. It’s important to have a mosquito service plan working all year long. Let’s talk about how mosquito control can better help you!

Mosquitoes pose many health risks for you and your family. They are known to carry diseases like Zika virus and West Nile virus, which are both very serious. It’s important to work with your pest control company to determine what treatment plan works best for you.

The first step in figuring out which plan is right for you is to obtain an inspection of your entire yard to identify breeding sites and resting places that mosquitoes are using. Once these areas have been identified, larvicide and adulticide applications are used to control the mosquito population on your property. After the application is completed, it’s best to remove any standing water on your property, which can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The best part of the plan is that in between treatments a technician will come out for any issues that arise.

In addition to mosquito treatments, homeowners can also take steps to prevent mosquitoes around their homes by:

  • Cutting away tall weeds around your property
  • Removing any containers with standing water
  • Making sure your property drains properly to avoid flooding and standing water
  • Mowing your lawn regularly

If you think you have a problem with mosquitoes or any other pests, contact your local Naples pest control company to receive a free inspection!

 

Request a Free Pest Control Analysis

DIY Mosquito Control Methods

DIY Mosquito Control Methods

Miami Pest Control: Mosquito Prevention Tips

Miami is prone to heat and humidity, which can bring a host of pest problems. One pest known to arrive in droves during the warmer season is mosquitoes. While it’s inevitable to run into these pests this time of year, it is possible to reduce them around your home. Check out our list of DIY methods for mosquito control so you can get back to enjoying your home.

Eliminate Breeding Sites

Female mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to breed, producing even more of these nuisance pests in your yard. It’s important to eliminate any stagnant water throughout your property to avoid them. Check around your property for any objects that can hold water and remove them, such as outdoor pet bowls, tire swings, tarps, and more.

Maintain Your Yard

Tall grass, shrubbery, and even damp woodpiles are the perfect places for mosquitoes to hide in. It’s important to keep your yard well landscaped, mow your lawn often, and cut back your shrubs. If you have any wood piles in your yard, cover them and store them in containers with lids at least 20 feet from your home.

Utilize Fans

Did you know that mosquitoes are attracted to our body heat? If you’ve been sweating, it’s likely the pests will seek you out for a blood meal. If you’re spending time on your deck or patio, utilize outdoor fans to help redirect the carbon dioxide and body heat you emit.

Consider Monthly Treatments

Sometimes the best option is to call a professional to help with mosquito control. There are several different mosquito treatment methods available, including green mosquito treatments and traditional ones. Professional mosquito services will include treatments that eliminate larvae and adult mosquitoes, source reduction techniques, and prevention methods. Your local Miami pest control company typically offers a monthly mosquito service during peak mosquito season.

 

Request a Free Mosquito Control Analysis

Are Mosquitoes Still Active in the Fall?

Are Mosquitoes Still Active in the Fall?

Mosquitoes are most active based on the temperature, not the time of year. In the South, this means they are active for most of the year. Even though summer is almost over, the heat will stay for a while. Sometimes, we even see temperatures above 70 degrees well into the fall season. With mosquitoes still active, it’s important to continue taking precautions.

Treatments for mosquitoes should continue into the fall, even if you aren’t experiencing mosquito issues. There are reasons behind the “start it early and finish late” saying when it comes to mosquito treatments. Treatments should run from March to October to ensure the mosquitoes are dealt with correctly.

Do you ever wonder where mosquitoes go during the fall and winter? Depending on the mosquito species, they most likely haven’t gone anywhere. They can still be found in your lawn, pond, creek, or woods. They only remain inactive in the fall and winter, most likely hibernating. Some mosquitoes will even lay their dormant eggs in the soil until warmer weather returns.

Mosquitoes might not seem as active in the later months, but they are prepared for when the weather returns to a favorable climate for them to thrive. Treatment schedules should be followed for a reason, to help maintain mosquito control, especially when the weather warms up again.

If you suspect you have a mosquito problem, reach out to your local pest control company and they can get a mosquito plan made that’s right for you and your property.

Top 3 Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes in South Florida

Top 3 Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes in South Florida

South Florida Mosquito Control

In Florida, mosquitoes have quite a presence, especially during peak mosquito season. These pests are most active in warmer months, ruining our summer fun outside. But just because these pests are active does not mean you are not able to avoid them. Check out our top three ways to avoid mosquitoes while outside.

Protect Yourself

When spending time outdoors, it’s important to utilize mosquito repellent containing DEET. These repellents will help protect you from mosquitoes biting your skin. Sparingly spray the repellent on your skin, covering any exposed areas while outdoors. In addition to using repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and avoid perfumes to reduce the chance of getting bitten.

Landscape Your Yard

To avoid mosquitoes during your backyard BBQ’s or picnics, it is always best to keep your yard well-maintained. Mosquitoes need only ½” of water to breed. Ensure that you fill any holes or hollow trees from gathering water. Equally, make sure gutters are clear of debris to avoid pooling water, correct any drainage issues, and eliminate any other sources of moisture – like toys and other containers that collect water.

Consider Peak Times

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Consider having a party or outdoor event before sunset instead of in the middle of the day. Placing citronella candles throughout your yard can also help minimize mosquito activity and reduce mosquito bites.

If you’ve noticed more mosquito activity this summer, reach out to your local South Florida mosquito control company to schedule a thorough property inspection and a comprehensive mosquito control plan, consisting of monthly mosquito treatments.

 

Request a Free Mosquito Control Quote

Is Green Mosquito Control Effective in Florida?

Is Green Mosquito Control Effective in Florida?

South Florida Mosquito Control

In South Florida, mosquito season can begin as early as March and end as late as October! Besides leaving behind itchy, red welts when they bite humans, they can also be dangerous as they pose serious health risks. One of the best and most effective ways to reduce mosquitoes in your property is investing in a recurring mosquito control program. There are several programs to choose from, but a popular eco-friendly choice is a green mosquito control option.

With a green mosquito control program, eco-friendly products are utilized when a monthly mosquito treatment is performed. These products are derived from flowers and botanicals, applied to areas where they are most needed instead of the entire property. The treatment solution is effective in reducing both larva and adult mosquitoes.

Mosquito Prevention Tips

While green mosquito control is effective in reducing mosquitoes, it’s equally important to eliminate factors that might be attracting them in the first place. Mosquitoes are attracted to any water as they lay their eggs in the smallest amount. Consider eliminating potential breeding sites by:

  • Removing items that can hold water including pots, cans, bird baths, lids, toys, and planters
  • Inspecting your gutters for any clogs, making sure they are cleaned out
  • Repairing poor drainage sites in your yard as these can lead to standing water
  • Cleaning up debris around your home; moisture can accumulate under piles of leaves, boards, rocks, and other outdoor items

If you notice more mosquitoes than usual, it could be time to call your local South Florida pest control company. These mosquito control experts will provide you with a thorough property inspection and provide green treatment options guaranteed to reduce mosquitoes and bites.

Request a Free Mosquito Control Quote Now

Reducing Summer Mosquitoes in South Florida

Reducing Summer Mosquitoes in South Florida

South Florida Mosquito Control

It’s inevitable not to encounter mosquitoes during Florida’s spring and summer seasons, as hot and humid weather is their peak season. Not just a nuisance, these pests can pose a health risk to humans, dogs, cats, and other animals. Every homeowner should look to place preventative measures throughout their property to help reduce mosquitoes.

Get Rid of Standing Water

Mosquitoes need stagnant water to breed, and they only need a small amount to do so. Identifying these areas throughout your property and eliminating them is your first step toward mosquito prevention. Start with items that can hold water such as toys, buckets, outdoor pet bowls, and tire swings. Make sure you remove them, especially after a thunderstorm when rainwater has collected. Look throughout your yard for any low-lying areas or hollow tree stumps prone to flooding or pooling and fill them in with dirt or mulch.

Keep Your Yard Maintained

Mosquitoes are known to hide in tall grass, damp woodpiles, and overgrown shrubbery. Look to maintain your grass and shrubs, keeping them both trimmed. If utilizing woodpiles, make sure they are covered or stored in containers with lids away from the home’s foundation. If a thunderstorm has passed by, your gutters may be clogged with debris, creating a perfect breeding site for mosquitoes. Carefully clear out your gutters frequently, especially after a bad storm.

Utilizing Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Sometimes mother nature can be the best mosquito repellent for us. Some certain flowers and plants can keep these pests away from your home. Marigold, a common flower, is a popular mosquito repellent. Citronella grass is easy to maintain and a great option to help fill large areas of your yard while it prevents mosquitoes. Lavender, rosemary, catnip, and peppermint are others to help you avoid these pests too.

Monthly Mosquito Service

Getting rid of mosquitoes can seem like a hopeless battle, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are several traditional and green mosquito control options you can invest in for your home. A local South Florida pest control company can provide you with mosquito reduction programs that target both adult and larvae mosquitoes. These professionals can provide you with the best treatment and prevention plans for your home.

If you need extra help with keeping the mosquitoes away, request a free mosquito estimate now!

Mosquito Bites 101

Mosquito Bites 101

When you think of warmer weather, you imagine barbecues and beach trips. Unfortunately, these outdoor activities can be ruined by mosquito bites. Mosquitoes can put a damper on any summer fun, causing itchy red bumps and spreading diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and more within the U.S.

Most people are familiar with the maddening, itching sensation of a mosquito bite. But why do mosquito bites itch and why do they bite people in the first place? Let’s break it down.

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Only female mosquitoes bite as they need protein to nourish their developing eggs. Biting mosquitoes use several different signals to locate a host, including carbon dioxide that we exhale, heat, and body odor. There are many factors that make some people appear more attractive to mosquitoes than others, including darker colored clothing, blood type, body size, being pregnant, sweat, and skin bacteria.

Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?

During the process of a mosquito biting you, it injects some of its own saliva which contains an anticoagulant and specific proteins. The anticoagulant prevents blood from clotting around the mosquito’s mouth. The proteins released by the mosquito trigger the body’s immune system, which releases histamine, a compound that increases cell count resulting in inflammation and swelling. The histamine also signals the nerves around the bite to cause it to itch.

Preventing Mosquito Bites

  • Eliminate standing water around your property to lessen the population of mosquitoes
  • Utilize screens on all windows and doors if they remain open
  • Most species are active during dusk and dawn, so limit your time outside during these time periods
  • Wear long pants and sleeves when possible and apply mosquito repellent containing an EPA-registered ingredient like DEET

If the mosquito problem is more than you can handle, then contacting your local pest control company might be the next step.  as they will help set up the right prevention plan for your home.

The Return of Mosquitoes

The Return of Mosquitoes

Spring is back, meaning the pesky pests that are mosquitoes are back too!  If you haven’t thought about mosquito prevention, then now is the perfect time to begin. Mosquitoes are a major nuisance and they can also pose health risks to humans, dogs, cats, and horses by transmitting diseases. Placing preventative measures throughout your yard to reduce their activity will help avoid the risk of spreading diseases.  Keep reading to discover more about mosquitoes.

What Does a Mosquito Look Like?

Mosquitoes are very small, about 1/8” – 3/8” long. They have six legs and long mouthparts called a proboscis. Their coloring varies from grey to black with some having white, green, or blue markings. They are typically difficult to spot as they fly because of their small size. They are most active from dawn to dusk.

Do Mosquitoes Only Feed on Blood?

It’s a well-known fact that mosquitoes do feed on blood. Only female mosquitoes bite and feed on humans so they can lay fertile eggs. Most mosquito species breed continuously, so a female will typically search for a blood meal every two days to lay another batch of eggs. However, both male and female mosquitoes feed on nectar from flowers for their main source of energy.

Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?

Yes. Many people are bitten by mosquitoes with no side effects, except the typical itchy welt. However, mosquitoes can be the cause of many diseases. If they feed off a diseased host, some can spread pathogens that can infect other hosts it later bites.

Mosquitoes are known to spread West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and dengue fever in the US. Around the world they are known to spread yellow fever, malaria, and chikungunya. These illnesses do not come with specific treatments and people have varied reactions to each virus, sometimes with fatal results.

How to Prevent Mosquitoes?

Mosquito prevention begins with eliminating all sources of standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water to allow larvae to develop. This can be as easy as changing out your birdbath water daily, keeping gutters clear of debris to prevent clogging, and checking AC drip pans for standing water.

A small fan at outdoor gatherings can also help reduce mosquitoes. The most important way to repel mosquitoes is by wearing effective insect repellent sprays or protective clothing while outside.

Taking these steps can help to prevent high mosquito activity; though, it might be best to call your local pest control company to help with future infestations. A trained service professional can provide you with a customized prevention and treatment plan to help eliminate these pests throughout your property.

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