Mosquitos 

What Are Mosquitoes?

This is a pest that needs no introduction. Mosquitoes are the number-one summer pest we deal with. They bite us when we go camping, fishing, hunting and while we're trying to enjoy any other outdoor activity. They bite us when we go to outdoor gatherings such as weddings, graduations, and family reunions. Worst of all, they bite us in our own backyards. Here are a few important facts you should know about mosquitoes  

What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?

Adult mosquitoes grow to between ¼ and 3/8th of an inch in length, but in general, they grow to about 1/8th of an inch in length.  They have a segmented body that is oval and narrow in shape, they have long thin legs, a pair of wings, and a long nose (proboscis). Female mosquitoes use their specially developed mouthparts to puncture the skin of their victims and their proboscis to suck up and feed on the blood. Males do not have the ability to bite people. Males and females use their proboscis to feed on the nectar of plants- their main nutrition source.  Mosquitoes have a grayish to a black colored body and have white stripes going across their body and legs.

Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?

Yes, mosquitoes can be dangerous to people. In addition to causing painful itchy welts on the skin of people, they are responsible for transmitting serious diseases including the Zika virus, the West Nile virus, and Encephalitis.

Where Am I Likely To Find Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are most likely to be hanging around on your property near areas of standing water; females lay their eggs on standing water. Birdbaths, children’s wading pools, wheelbarrows, the tops of tarps and trash can lids, old soda cans, and pet water bowls can all easily become a place that a mosquito will lay her eggs. Mosquitoes don’t like the heat of the day and are most active at dusk and dawn. To get out of the sun during the middle of the day they take refuge in tall grasses and areas of dense overgrown vegetation.

How Can I Prevent Mosquito Infestations?

Preventing mosquito infestations on your property is a difficult job. Listed below are a few tips on how to discourage mosquitoes from choosing your property.

• Keep your lawn trimmed short; trim back or remove overgrown vegetation from your property.
• Eliminate areas of standing water on your property, fill in low lying areas, and make sure that gutters are running freely.
• Store items and containers that can collect water upside down when not in use.
• Regularly empty and refill pet water dishes with fresh clean water.
• To help prevent mosquitoes from getting into your home make sure that screens in windows are in place and are completely intact.

Helpful Mosquito Articles

• Everything You Need To Know About Mosquito Prevention
• How Mosquitoes Transmit Diseases
• What Is The Best Mosquito Repellent For Houston Residents?
• When To Expect Mosquitoes In The Greater Houston Area
• Why Mosquitoes Love Houston Yards