For most people, mosquitoes are among the most annoying summer pests. They’re abundant too. In fact, there are more mosquitoes on the planet than there are human beings!
From early spring through late fall, mosquitoes come out at dusk and feed on mammals in the landscape, including humans and pets. These irritating pests can ruin your picnic and keep you from enjoying time spent on the patio in the evenings. If you’re a homeowner who enjoys spending time outdoors, it helps to know more about mosquitoes and prevention options available, so you can enjoy your back yard at all times of the day.
Get Rid of Standing Water
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in shallow standing water. Just a small dish with about half an inch of water in the bottom is enough for a mosquito to lay eggs. The eggs take about 8 to 10 days to turn into adult mosquitoes.
Standing Water Is Very Common
Standing water is a common problem on many properties, especially during the growing season when homeowners water their gardens and kids play in the yard. If you take a look around your yard, you’re likely to find many sources of standing water, such as:
- Flower pots
- Watering cans
- Bird baths
- Animal drinking dishes
- Wading pools
All of these places can be mosquito breeding grounds.
Sometimes water can be found in trash on the lawn. A tire laid on its side may contain a small pool of standing water on the inner rim. A trash bin that is left open during a rain storm can contain a puddle fit for mosquito eggs. When you’re looking for standing water, examine all the water-tight areas that you might normally overlook.
Replacing Standing Water Eliminates Mosquito Eggs
Regularly checking your property for standing water and eliminating it, should result in fewer mosquitoes.
In cases when standing water is left intentionally in the yard , like in bird baths and wading pools, replace the water on a regular basis. You can use the old water to refresh your flower garden. This will prevent mosquito eggs from turning into adult mosquitoes.
Fix Leaks
Outdoor leaks can be a problem in summer. Pay attention to leaky outdoor faucets and other plumbing problems that could lead to unwanted puddles. Inspect all of your faucets for dripping water or puddles underneath faucets that haven’t been used. Call a plumber for help when you identify a problem.
Protect Yourself
Even if you’ve eliminated some of the places on your lawn where mosquitoes will want to lay eggs, you could still be vulnerable to existing mosquitoes on your property. Use mosquito repellent with DEET when spending time outdoors, and protect your family members as well. If you have a very young child who cannot wear bug repellent, talk to your family physician for recommendations. Always follow the directions when using any insect repellent.
Have Your Property Treated
Work with a pest control company to have your property treated throughout the summer. This is an especially good practice before big events like barbecues and outdoor birthday parties, when there’s sure to be a lot of people and food outside on your lawn for a long time.
Not only will your pest control company be able to treat your lawn, they’ll also be able to identify hidden areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed. Taking these protective measures throughout the summer can help keep your property free of mosquitoes, so you can enjoy your outdoor space.
At Adam’s Pest Control, Inc., we help homeowners just like you prevent mosquitoes. Contact us for more information.
