Every summer Bucks County residents find themselves fighting off swarms of mosquitoes with many thinking that nothing that can be done about these pests. The reality is that species such as the common house mosquito and the Asian tiger mosquito can be controlled, and it is even possible to prevent infestations. Doing so can be complicated. Moreover, it probably is wise for property owners to enlist the help of a licensed pest control professional.
One of the most common reasons why mosquitoes congregate where they do is that there is an abundance of water. This may mean a pond or lake that has almost completely still water or a low section of lawn that does not have proper drainage. The small accumulation of rainwater in an abandoned flowerpot or tire similarly may attract mosquitoes. This is because these pests require water to breed. Even a tiny amount of liquid will suffice, making it crucial to seek out and eliminate all standing water on the property.
It may not be necessary to get rid of the kids’ wading pool or the bird bath in order to get on top of mosquito infestations. Changing the water on a weekly or even more frequent basis may be enough to ward off any difficulties. However, standing water is not the only thing that brings mosquitoes to a particular area. They further are attracted by the availability of people to bite.
Maddeningly itchy, mosquito bites are an exceptionally good reason to call an exterminator. When these pests swarm, immediate action is required, and that action always involves an inspection by a pest management professional.
WHAT MOSQUITOES LOOK LIKE
At one-quarter of an inch long, the common house mosquito may not exactly look like a fearsome creature. Additionally, its straw or light-brown coloration does not make it appear any more threatening. People still revile this insect because of its itchy bite. Identifying common house mosquitoes may involve seeing a striped abdomen and legs that are darker than the body.
Asian tiger mosquitoes are more likely to be seen during the day than at night like the common house mosquito. Measuring about one-third of an inch long, members of this species are covered in white and black stripes, including a central stripe that runs longitudinally down the head and back.
WHERE DO MOSQUITOES LIVE?
Moisture is an unfailing attractant to mosquitoes. Females require water of only one-eighth of an inch depth in which to lay eggs. Accordingly, these pests tend to congregate wherever water can be found.
While swamps and marshes are obvious places to discover large mosquito populations in Bucks County, it is not necessary to have a pond, lake or stream on the premises in order to attract these insects. Where plants and bushes are slightly overgrown and create damp, shady spaces, it is possible to find large numbers of mosquitoes.
Some of the conditions that attract mosquitoes include clogs in gutters and downspouts, puddles in driveways and ditches that have become dammed up. People who have a pond or other water feature on their property may find themselves plagued by mosquitoes unless the water is regularly agitated by a waterfall, pump or other device that is designed to create constant movement.
People do not always appreciate how even a tiny amount of water will attract mosquitoes. The forgotten cap of a soda bottle that was left upturned in the garden can become a mosquito breeding ground. Consequently, it is wise for property owners to regularly look for and eliminate items that have the potential to hold water.
WHAT DO MOSQUITOES EAT?
Food sources for mosquitoes vary depending upon their stage of development. Females lay eggs in water, and the larvae that eventually emerge feed on algae, bacteria and microorganisms. Adult mosquitoes survive mainly on nectar from various plants, making them pollinators like honeybees. Other dietary options for adult mosquitoes include fruit, sap from trees and plants and honeydew.
It is a common misconception for people to believe that mosquitoes eat solely blood to survive. However, only females eat blood as a fundamental part of their ability to reproduce. Taking a blood meal is a crucial step that allows the female to lay eggs.
Finding blood meals is easy for females because they have specially adapted senses. These allow them to target the moisture and breath that are given off by potential hosts. In addition to being attracted to people for blood meals, mosquitoes may swarm around picnics and barbecues in search of soda, juice, fruit, sugary foods, condiments and more.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY MOSQUITOES
Property damage generally is not associated with mosquito infestations. Nonetheless, they will try to get indoors for a meal if building exteriors are not pest-proof.
ARE MOSQUITOES AGGRESSIVE?
With Asian tiger mosquitoes mostly active during the day and common house mosquitoes mostly active at night, it can seem like these pests are an around the clock problem. When people encounter Asian tiger mosquitoes, it is almost certain that these pests are nesting in the area because they are not strong fliers. Conversely, common house mosquitoes may fly nearly 15 miles from their breeding ground when they need a host. Regardless of where these insects are coming from, most people would consider them aggressive.
DO MOSQUITIOES CARRY DISEASE?
The problems with mosquito bites go beyond their itchiness. These tiny pests are recognized vectors for several illnesses that can be transmitted to people and domesticated animals.
Zika virus is one disease that has gotten considerable media attention in recent years. An infected mosquito can cause symptoms in a bite victim such as fever, joint pain, rash, achy muscles, headache and red eyes.
Another readily recognizable disease that is spread by mosquitoes is West Nile virus. Many people who receive this infection will never develop symptoms while others may experience diarrhea, painful joints, headache, nausea and rash. If these symptoms are ignored, complications such as tremors, vision loss, dangerously high fever, disorientation and paralysis may ensue.
It is possible for canines to ingest mosquitoes that are infected with a parasite that causes heartworm disease. When the family pet develops a dry cough, is short of breath and seems to lose energy, it is time for a visit to the vet.
HOW TO DETECT MOSQUITOES
Signs of a mosquito infestation include:
• Clouds of insects flying around a damp, shady area on the premises • Standing water issues are identified in the area • The property has water features with still water • Itchy bites become a daily occurrence
HOW TO PREVENT MOSQUITOES
To help prevent mosquito issues the following steps should be taken:
• Get rid of clutter and yard debris piles that may be hiding standing water • Look for ways to improve drainage in lawns and landscaping • Correct leaks in plumbing and irrigation systems • Ensure that all doors and windows are fitted with screens • Regularly replace standing water in ornamental features
HOW TO TREAT FOR MOSQUITOES
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, we use a comprehensive system based on both treatment and prevention when providing mosquito control for your home or business.
