Mosquitoes are bothersome and potentially harmful flying pests. Data indicates that mosquitoes exist in roughly 200 different species across the country and approximately 50 various species here in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Agriculture warns that the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is a significant public health concern that exists in the state.
Are you wondering how to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard area? As outdoor pests that routinely live in residential settings, mosquitoes are often challenging creatures to eliminate. Property owners should consider consulting with a pest control expert regarding the best treatment options. A local Waldorf pest control company like Mike's Pest & Termite Control maintains a team of professionals that have many of the best products to keep mosquitoes away from yard areas.
When Do Mosquitoes Come Out In Waldorf?
Do mosquitoes like cold weather? Mosquitoes are cold-blooded creatures incapable of surviving in the winter; thus, some species transition into a state of hibernation known as diapause during this time.
In Waldorf, you will generally see mosquitoes from April through October. Mosquitoes are types of creatures that thrive in warm and humid conditions. The eggs that females create may remain dormant during the winter and hatch in the spring.
What time of day are mosquitoes most active? Although some variations exist among different species, mosquitoes remain active primarily during dusk and dawn. Many types of mosquitoes avoid exposure to direct sunlight and remain hidden during the midday hours.
While both male and female mosquitoes consume plant-based materials, including nectar, females also consume blood. After landing on the skin, a female mosquito uses a mouthpart called a proboscis to pierce the skin and consume a blood meal. The blood that females ingest provides proteins that bolster the production of eggs.
Mosquitoes in Waldorf generally remain in areas with standing water, which is where female mosquitoes place their eggs. After placement in water, mosquito eggs often hatch within several days. Next, mosquitoes progress through phases as larvae and pupae while they prepare for adulthood.
How big do mosquitoes get in this region? The majority of mosquitoes found in this area measure no longer than ½ of an inch.
The Many Diseases Mosquitoes Are Known To Spread
In many instances, those bitten by a mosquito develop a red bump on the skin that is often itchy and irritated. However, mosquitoes are a potential source of more significant health problems.
After biting, mosquitoes will acquire pathogens, which they might spread to others they bite. In this process, mosquitoes act as vectors of disease. Some of the traditional mosquito-borne health risks include malaria and yellow fever. More recent mosquitoes-related health risks include the Zika virus and the West Nile virus.
Researchers estimate that roughly one billion people in the world each year endure an illness associated with mosquitoes. The increase in international travel contributes to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. As a leading public health problem, agencies at the state and local levels typically implement regular mosquito control efforts.
Some Mosquito Prevention Methods Are More Effective Than Others
Are you a homeowner in Waldorf that has an excessive mosquito population throughout your property? Consider some of the following mosquito prevention tips:
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created a listing of approved mosquito repellants that includes DEET, Picaridin, IR 3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Like many flying pests, bright outdoor lighting often attracts mosquitoes; therefore, consider replacing traditional bulbs with the newer, yellowish, LED-style options that are less attractive to pests.
- Prevent water problems by keeping gutter systems cleaned, promptly repairing leaky hoses or spigots, and filling into ground holes that may hold water.
- Limit items and objects that hold water, including buckets, bird baths, tarps, and kiddie pools.
- Keep lawns cut short and trim back overgrown shrubs, as both offer shade for mosquitoes seeking to avoid direct sunlight.
Many property owners experience some success after adopting the aforementioned preventative measures. While these are useful for prevention, a local pest control professional that is properly trained and equipped to handle these concerns should treat existing mosquito problems. Mike's Pest & Termite Control can help.
Professional Mosquito Control Is A Great Idea For Your Yard
Are you looking for the best thing to get rid of mosquitoes? Avoid the do-it-yourself home treatment options sold in local retail stores for mosquito control. Most of these gimmicky devices, traps, and sprays prove ineffective against mosquitoes.
Mike's Pest & Termite Control is a locally-owned provider of mosquito control services for property owners in the Waldorf region. We might deploy a variety of treatment options that include applications using backpack sprayers, anti-larval treatments for water, and more. Contact our team of friendly professionals today for assistance.