Summer is here, and along with it comes those pesky mosquitoes. They always seem to buzz in your ears and bite you when you are trying to enjoy outdoor activities. Whether having a cookout, kayaking or simply taking a summer stroll, these annoying pests can be a real buzzkill.
At T&G Pest Control, we understand you want to make the most of your summer without constantly swatting these bugs. That’s why we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ve put together some easy and effective methods to keep these pests under control.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer activities to the fullest without these pests on your mind.
What Is a Mosquito?
Firstly, let’s discuss what exactly mosquitoes are. Knowing more about these flying pests will help you handle them better.
Mosquitoes are well-known for their annoying bites. These troublesome insects bite and suck blood from both animals and humans. However, it’s important to note that not all mosquitoes bite people and animals.
Worldwide, there are more than 3,500 species of mosquitoes, but in the United States, we have around 200 species. Out of these 200 species, only 12 can transmit germs and cause illnesses in humans. The remaining 188 species are considered nuisance mosquitoes, as they don’t spread infections or germs.
Interestingly, only the female mosquitoes are the ones who feed on blood, as they need it to produce viable eggs. On the other hand, male mosquitoes stick to nectar as their source of nutrition.
When finding their meals, these flying bugs rely on a few detection factors: exhaled carbon dioxide, body heat, and scent. These help them locate potential sources of food.
These flying insects are most active during dusk and dawn, but you can encounter them anytime, day or night.
The lifespan of an adult mosquito typically ranges from two to four weeks. This depends on numerous factors, such as the species, humidity, temperature, etc. Generally, female mosquitoes live longer than males.
Now that we’ve explored these insects’ characteristics and behaviors let’s move on to the dangers they possess.
Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?
Mosquitoes are sometimes regarded as one of the most dangerous insects in the world due to their ability to transmit infections to humans. Some of the most common diseases these insects can carry include the West Nile virus, Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, malaria, and dengue.
When bitten by an infected mosquito, not everyone will fall ill. Some individuals may experience mild and short-term symptoms. However, in severe cases, certain people can develop long-term and serious illnesses; in rare instances, it can even lead to death.
The transmission of germs from mosquitoes to people or animals is a complex process that involves several stages.
First, a mosquito feeds on the blood of a person or animal. If that blood contains a germ, it must pass from the insect’s gut into its body. Not all germs can survive and multiply inside mosquitoes; only certain ones can grow in the insect’s body.
Once inside the insect’s body, the germ starts to multiply. It moves from the body into the salivary glands responsible for producing saliva. This whole process takes about 2-3 weeks.
The germ is passed from the salivary glands into the bloodstream when this bug bites another person or animal. This is how the person or animal can become sick.
Several factors affect the mosquito’s ability to get infected with a germ and spread it:
- The type of germ: Different germs have different behaviors and requirements, so not all germs can infect and spread through the insect.
- Environmental conditions: Factors like temperature can impact the ability of the germ to survive and multiply within mosquitoes.
- The amount of germ consumed during a blood meal: The more germs present in the blood the mosquito feeds on, the higher the chance of infection.
- The age of the mosquito: Older mosquitoes are more likely to be carriers of germs since they have had more opportunities to become infected over time.
Understanding this process helps us better comprehend how these pests can transmit diseases and allow us to take appropriate measures to protect ourselves from mosquito-borne illnesses.
It is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself from their bites and reduce the risk of contracting these harmful diseases. Adopting preventive measures can safeguard your health and well-being when spending time outdoors.
How Can Southern Indiana Homeowners Effectively Combat Mosquitoes?
Every pest problem is unique, but there are steps you can take to reclaim your backyard from these pesky insects. Here are some practical measures you can follow:
- Eliminate standing water: These pests breed in stagnant water, so removing any standing water in your yard is essential. Regularly empty and clean containers like flower pots, birdbaths, and pet bowls. Ensure gutters are clear and not clogged, allowing water to flow freely. Fix leaks or drainage issues.
- Trim grass and plants: Keeping your grass and plants well-maintained helps reduce insect hiding spots. Trim the grass regularly and maintain a neat lawn. Mosquitoes seek shade and shelter in tall vegetation, so pruning shrubs and bushes can make your yard less appealing.
- Remove water-collecting objects: Look around your yard and remove any items that can collect water, such as old tires, unused buckets, or overturned toys. These objects can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, so proper storage or disposal is essential.
- Choose mosquito-repellent plants: Incorporating certain plants in your yard can help deter these bugs. Consider adding foliage that naturally repels these insects, such as citronella, lavender, lemongrass, or marigolds. These plants release scents that mosquitoes dislike, creating a less attractive environment.
- Call T&G Pest Control: At T&G, we offer effective mosquito control solutions that provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. Our services ensure your family can step outside their home without the constant worry of mosquito bites.
These flying pests can be a major annoyance during the summer months, constantly buzzing around and biting us while we try to enjoy outdoor activities. Their bites are irritating, and these insects can also transmit diseases to humans and animals.
Following the simple steps above, you can work to reclaim your backyard from these flying insects.
However, if you want reliable and long-lasting relief from mosquitoes, our team at T&G Pest Control is here to help. Our mosquito control solutions are designed to eliminate the nuisance of these pests and protect your loved ones from the diseases they transmit.
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your summer fun. Choose T&G Pest Control to effectively manage and control the infestations, allowing you to create lasting memories in a mosquito-free environment.