The Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus), although native to Southeastern Asia, can now be found throughout many parts of the world due to its ability to breed in shipping containers, warehouses, and distribution ports. It is the second-most commonly found mosquito in Pennsylvania and throughout the Bucks County area.
WHAT ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES LOOK LIKE
The Asian tiger mosquito, unlike mosquito species, prefers daytime and dusk to dawn mobility and feeding, as well as human hosts.
• Size: Adults up to 1/4" in length • Shape: Long, angular • Wings: 2 • Legs: 4 • Antennae: Yes • Color: Mostly light brown with pale spots with scales on the veins of the wings
WHERE DO TIGER MOSQUITOES LIVE?
Asian tiger mosquitoes prefer standing water in old automobile tires, bird baths, gutters, downspouts and empty flower pots.
WHAT DO TIGER MOSQUITOES EAT?
The main food supply for the Asian tiger mosquito comes from algae in water, juices of fruit on trees, flower nectar and that of human blood.
DO ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES BITE?
Yes.
Asian tiger mosquitoes may bite their hosts repeatedly in order to consume sufficient levels of blood necessary for breeding.
ARE ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES AGGRESSIVE?
The Asian tiger mosquito is known to attack and bite humans, cats, dogs, birds and other mammals. Human blood is the first choice for Asian tiger mosquito.
DO ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITIOES CARRY DISEASE?
Yes.
The Asian tiger mosquito is responsible for transmitting several types of diseases. These include West Nile virus, yellow fever, St. Louis and La Crosse encephalitis, a certain strain of dengue fever and also equine encephalitis. The bite of the Asian tiger mosquito leaves a red bump on the skin.
HOW TO DETECT TIGER MOSQUITOES
It is fairly easy to detect an infestation of Asian tiger mosquitoes as they generally fly, bite and rest close to ground levels. Their unusual color makes them quickly identifiable.
HOW TO PREVENT TIGER MOSQUITOES
Identifying the sources of potential Asian tiger mosquito infestation and breeding grounds of larvae is an important part of prevention.
Below are some guidelines to help prevent against an Asian tiger mosquito problem:
OUTDOORS
• Check low lying and thick shrubbery for Asian tiger mosquitoes • Remove all outdoor items that collect puddles of water • Check holes in trees for Asian tiger mosquito larvae • Inspect and remove all areas where stagnant water has collected
INDOORS
Asian tiger mosquitoes may find their way indoors through from normal opening and closings of doors or from windows that have defective screens.
Help prevent mosquitoes from gaining entry with these tips :
• Inspect screens on storm doors and windows for points of entry • Seal or caulk openings around doors and windows
HOW TO PREVENT TIGER MOSQUITO BITES
Because Asian tiger mosquitoes bite more frequently than other mosquito species, protecting potential hosts is important. To prevent Asian tiger mosquito bites, use an approved topical repellent on exposed areas of the body. Asian tiger mosquitoes typically prefer biting exposed knees and ankles.
HOW TO TREAT FOR MOSQUITOES
At Newtown Termite & Pest Control, we know that mosquitoes are much more than a mere nuisance and represent a potential health risk to you and your family. That is why we provide a thorough inspection, and then utilize only the finest professional-grade products combined with the most effective treatment methods.
To achieve the best results possible, Newtown uses a comprehensive system based on both treatment and prevention when providing mosquito control for your home or business.
CONSULTATION
We first consult with our clients in order to get initial information, including general locations where mosquito activity is the heaviest or most frequently experienced.
INSPECTION
We then conduct an exterior inspection of the structure and immediate grounds for conditions that are known to be conducive for attracting/harboring mosquitoes as well as enabling them to breed.
TREATMENT
Our certified technician will then administer the appropriate treatment which will encompass a 100-foot radius around the exterior of the structure, while also focusing extra attention on resting areas and breeding grounds, including:
• Shaded areas • Sheltered areas • High-moisture areas • Bushes/hedges • Decks • Patios • Overhead foliage
