What are mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are small biting flies; the reason that mosquitoes bite is that the females require blood meals from warm-blooded animals. All female mosquitoes need blood meals to produce viable eggs. But did you know that blood isn't the mosquito's sole source of nutrition? The primary source of nutrition for male and female mosquitoes is plant nectar and other sweet liquids.
Mosquitoes near your home are most active and breed easiest in hot, humid climates, making our area a place where these pests thrive. Almost everyone in Texas has been driven indoors from their yard or another outdoor event by these relentless biting pests.
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
Mosquito bites and the diseases mosquitoes spread through their bites can be traced to the death of more than a million people worldwide each year. Though mosquitoes spread diseases in the United States, like the West Nile virus, the spread of deadly diseases in the U.S. is not as big a threat as in developing or tropical countries.
No matter where you live, limiting your contact with mosquitoes is always best; not only do they spread diseases, but they deliver itchy bites. When people or animals scratch at the bites, they can become infected and require medical attention.
Why do I have a mosquito problem?
Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water (breeding sites) and areas with tall grass and dense vegetation (feeding and resting sites) that offer shade from the sun. The following things will attract mosquitoes to your property:
- Clogged gutters and downspouts
- Wading pools
- Pet water bowls and birdbaths
- Low-lying areas that collect rainwater
- Open trash cans
- Tall grass
- Dense shrubbery and lots of trees
If you notice swarms of mosquitoes in your yard, they are there for a reason. The best way to eliminate them is with the help of a professional that can locate breeding sites, provide treatment, and put in place a plan of action to reduce their presence on your property.
Where will I find mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are resilient pests and live almost anywhere there is warmth and moisture. Outdoor habitats where these pests thrive include wooded areas, fields, meadows, and areas around standing water like ponds and marshes.
It is vital to understand that you will find mosquitoes taking advantage of any amount of standing water. They can use tiny amounts of water to lay their eggs, so even things like the tops of cans, tarps, and yard clutter will provide mosquitoes with breeding sites.
Mosquitoes are primarily outdoor pests, but that doesn't mean we won't find them in our homes. When large populations of mosquitoes are outside, they will regularly fly inside through open windows, doors, and torn screens.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
Though mosquitoes are tiny, their ability to impact our lives is enormous. The best way to keep mosquitoes away is to partner with a Houston pest control professional. Professional mosquito control experts will reduce their numbers in your yard, helping you to avoid their bites and keep them out of your home.
Here at The Bugstoppers, we offer effective mosquito control solutions that you can count on to work. We understand how dangerous and annoying it is to have a property swarming with biting mosquitoes. Enjoy eating and spending time outside with family and friends whenever you want by partnering with The Bugstoppers. Our professionals are committed to helping our customers maintain outdoor spaces not being overrun by mosquitoes. To learn more about installing a mosquito misting system on your property or other mosquito control solutions, please reach out to us today!
How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?
The following tips will help you to achieve your goal- enjoying your backyard whenever you want!
- Eliminate as much standing water from your property as possible.
- Store containers that can collect rainwater upside, inside, or make sure they have lids.
- Keep your grass cut short and remove yard debris.
- Keep trees and shrubs well-pruned and cut back from your home's exterior.
- Plant plants in your garden that naturally repel mosquitoes. Some of the best plants to deter mosquitoes are marigolds, rosemary, and lavender.
Call today to reduce the number of mosquitoes in Houston breeding and feeding in your yard.