How to Identify Mosquitos
Mosquitos are considered “true flies” of the order Diptera. They can easily be identified by their large, blood-sucking proboscis and have two wings with scales running down the length. Male mosquitos have feathery antennae, while female mosquitos don’t, which allows them to pierce the skin and draw blood more easily.
Mosquito Facts
- Mosquitoes can reproduce rapidly, with females laying up to 100 eggs at a time.
- Mosquitoes can need as little as a bottle cap size of water to reproduce.
- Mosquitoes breed in damp areas such as flowerpots and gardens, bird baths, puddles, and other standing water.
- Some mosquito eggs can hibernate through the winter in frozen water, hatching at the first thaw.
- Mosquitoes can carry serious disease-causing pathogens like West Nile and Zika Virus.
Tips to Avoid Mosquito Bites
Mosquito bites can be very annoying, but there are a few ways to prevent them, even if you have mosquitos nearby.
Use Insect Repellent by applying an EPA-registered repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Reapply as directed on the product label, especially after sweating or swimming.
Wear protective clothing and opt for loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Mosquitoes are often most active at dawn and dusk. If possible, schedule outdoor activities outside these peak times.
Eliminate Standing Water by regularly emptying and cleaning birdbaths, flower pot saucers, kiddie pools, and pet bowls. Keep gutters clear and ensure proper drainage around your home.
Use screens and barriers to ensure door and window screens are intact and fit snugly. Use mosquito nets around beds, especially in areas with high mosquito populations.
Maintain your yard by keeping grass and shrubs trimmed to reduce mosquito resting spots.
Also, consider using outdoor fans on patios, as mosquitoes are weak fliers and less likely to linger in moving air.
What to do about a mosquito problem around your home?
The most effective way to treat mosquitoes is to contact a reputable pest control company like Anchor Pest Control. Mosquitoes are extremely abundant and adaptive insects that can be tricky to control without the help of a professional. The Anchor Mosquito Service targets mosquitoes in every stage of their life cycle to not only rid you of pesky adult mosquitoes but also prevent them from being able to reproduce. If you struggle with mosquitoes in or around your home, call us for a free, no-obligation quote today.
Mosquito protection and control is included with our All Inclusive Home Service or can be purchased as a seasonal program. Learn more about our Mosquito service.
