What are mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are pests that have an unparalleled ability to ruin any outdoor activity or event. These biting pests are small in size, but cause big problems for people trying to enjoy the great outdoors. Adult mosquitoes have a narrow oval-shaped body, long legs that hang down when in flight, and a long thin nose (proboscis) that they use for feeding.
Mosquitoes have one pair of wings covered in fine hairs. Their exact color and color pattern depends on their species, but most mosquitoes are black or black and white. The primary food source for both female and male mosquitoes is plant nectar. However, female mosquitoes require blood meals from animals and people to get the protein needed to make viable eggs. The mosquito only has to mate one time and carries the males sperm inside her, and fertilizes her eggs for life after one mating event.
What are Common Mosquito Treatment Options?
There are a few different treatment options that can be used to control mosquitoes. These include:
Preventive treatments - These are used to prevent the spread of disease-carrying mosquitoes in your yard and neighborhood. They include things like larvicides, which kill mosquito larvae before they become adults, and adulticides that kill adult mosquitoes. This is the most effective way of controlling biting mosquitoes, is to kill them before they become an adult.
Reactive treatments - This type of treatment is used when there is an outbreak of mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus or Zika virus in your area. It may also be needed if you have a pool on your property and want to keep it safe from contamination by these diseases.
Biological control methods - These involve using natural predators like bats or dragonflies as pest control agents against harmful species like Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito).
How Can I Implement Mosquito Treatments in Albertville, AL?
Mosquito control is a multi-faceted process that involves identifying mosquito breeding sites, applying insecticides to those areas and using natural repellents.
When it comes to controlling mosquitoes in your yard or on your property, there are several things you can do:
Identify potential breeding sites. Look for standing water (like puddles) that may collect after rainfall and keep an eye out for other places where water collects such as bird baths or clogged gutters. If you notice any of these areas on your property, take steps to eliminate them immediately so they don't become breeding grounds for mosquitoes!
Apply insecticides according to label instructions if necessary. If there are large numbers of mosquitoes in an area where they shouldn't be present (like indoors), then applying insecticides may be necessary
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
Due to the significant health risks that they pose to people and animals, mosquitoes are most certainly a dangerous pest. In the United States, mosquitoes spread many diseases, including encephalitis and West Nile Virus. They also spread parasitic heartworms to our pets, which can be fatal. In developing and tropical countries, mosquitoes spread malaria and yellow fever, which kills or debilitates millions each year – the biggest reason why mosquitoes are considered one of the most dangerous insects in the world.
In addition to their health risks, mosquitoes deliver painful, itchy bites. They swarm in large numbers and can ruin the time you enjoy with your family and friends outside.
Why do I have a mosquito problem?
Mosquitoes thrive in Alabama's hot, humid summer season. They live and breed outside, laying their eggs in areas of standing water. These biting pests can become a problem on any property but are especially problematic on properties with or near ponds, marshes, drainage ditches, and heavily wooded areas. Lots of flowering vegetation also attracts mosquitoes.
Where will I find mosquitoes?
During the heat of the day, mosquitoes will rest in areas of tall grass, dense vegetation, under trees, behind tree bark, and along fence lines. They also like to hide out under decks and porches. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk and these are the times you're most likely to be bitten by these insects. While mosquitoes are outdoor pests, they sometimes find their way inside through open screens, windows, or doors.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
Get rid of mosquitoes by partnering with the trusted experts here at Custom Pest Control. For over 20 years, we have been helping home and business owners maintain pest-free properties. If you are looking for a personal approach to pest control, look no further
At Custom Pest Control, we customize our pest control programs to meet the unique needs of each of our customers. Let our family protect your family from North Alabama's toughest pests! For more information about our mosquito control service, reach out to Custom Pest Control, and speak with one of our friendly professionals today.
How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?
The best way to prevent problems with mosquitoes is to partner with a professional and implement the following prevention tips around your Huntsville, Alabama home:
- Eliminate standing water from your property.
- Maintain your home's gutters and downspouts.
- Store any buckets, flower pots, wheelbarrows, or other containers that collect water upside down when not in use.
- Keep grass cut short and cut back overgrown vegetation and trees.
- Fill in low lying areas in your yard that collect water.
- Limit the number of flowering plants planted near your home.
- Keep doors and windows shut as much as possible.
- Repair any loose or torn window or door screens.
- Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active.
- When spending time in mosquito-laden areas, wear a mosquito repellent.