Mosquito Season is Here

Yes, mosquito season is here and it is time to prepare for the battle. Mosquitoes are also a huge problem after hurricanes and since it is hurricane season it is time to remind us of the things we can do to help control the problem of those awful pests.

All mosquitoes develop from eggs deposited by females that have previously fed on blood. Most mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. A female mosquito deposits 100-200 eggs at a time. Some species lay their eggs on the water’s surface, some in other moist locations such as the crevices in tree bark..

For those laid in water, each egg hatches into an aquatic organism, a “mosquito larva.” They are wingless, legless, look like a little worm and move almost constantly. Within a few days, they develop into “mosquito pupa” and form legs and wings. They can form into adults within 10 days.

Mosquitoes can carry a variety of diseases, some deadly. Here are a few tips for reducing the risk:

• Drill holes in the bottom, not the sides, of any garbage, recycling containers, flower pots or any other container which may accumulate water. Only holes drilled in the bottom allow all the water to drain away.
• Keep gutters clean and unclogged. Be sure all downspouts drain properly, without leaving puddles.
• Remove water quickly from any item in the yard where it is collecting, including pet dishes, toys, wading pools, wheel barrows and unused garden pots and trays.
• Keep swimming pools cleaned, chlorinated and the water moving. Have a friend or family member add chlorine for you if you are out of town.
• After a rain, check for puddles and eliminate the standing water and fix the problem so after the next rain you don’t have more puddles.
• Remove dead leaves and grass clipping as they are also breeding grounds.
• Ponds and water features should be aerated to keep water moving and discourage mosquitoes from laying eggs. Ponds can also be stocked with mosquito eating fish.
• Drain fountains and other water features, including bird baths before leaving on vacation.
• Check trees for rotting spots. Some mosquitoes lay their eggs in these crevices.
• Look over the fence. If any of these hazards are present in your neighbor’s yard speak with them about eliminating the problem.
• Mosquitoes are a fact of summer. When all else fails use DEET labeled repellents
• Install a ceiling fan on outside patios. Mosquitoes cannot fly in the breezes the fan generates.
• Screens on doors and windows should be 16-18 mesh and fit tightly. Check screens and repair holes frequently.
• Insects of all kinds do not like yellow “bug” lights. Replacing bulbs will help reduce the insect’s desire to invade your space.
• There are some insecticides available commercially which may be used for mosquito control. Check the labels for EPA-approved products registered as effective against adult and larval mosquitoes. Follow directions for use carefully.
• Citronella candles and mosquito coils, may also be effective for short distances.

Now is the time to eliminate potential breeding grounds. We can co-exist but who want so if we don’t have to!

2 Responses to “Mosquito Season is Here”

1. Believer says:

   July 1, 2009 at 6:25 pm

   If you put dryer sheets in different places around your home, flys and mosquitos will not come in. They don’t like the smell. I put them behind bookcases, pictures, on top of shelves, etc. Especially put them close to windows and doors. If they are already in your house, it may take awhile for them to go away.

   Also, if you put a dryer sheet in your pocket or belt, that will keep them away as well.
2. Mosquito nets says:

   July 3, 2009 at 3:21 am

   thanks for sharing this information