June 5, 2023
With summer now in full swing, insect pests of all kinds are more active and bothersome than at any other time of the year. This includes mosquitoes, which are known for leaving behind itchy bites but also for carrying a number of potentially dangerous or even deadly diseases. In this article, we’ll examine mosquito behavior, the disease risks these pests can cause, and what you can do to keep them away, as well as some other helpful information.
When you need to get rid of these pests quickly, it’s often best to call a professional Tulsa mosquito control company such as Montgomery Exterminating. We’ve been leaders in the Tulsa pest control industry for over 30 years, and we’re always ready and willing to help local homeowners with their mosquito problems. Let’s start by talking about the habits of mosquitoes.
Understanding Mosquito Behavior: Essential For Effective Control
While there are more than 3,000 different types of mosquitoes in the world, only a handful of them are known to feed on humans. The most common type of mosquito by far is the Culex mosquito, also called the common house mosquito. Culex mosquitoes include several species which are capable of transmitting similar diseases. These mosquitoes are usually less than three-eighths of an inch long and vary widely in color due to their scales. Mosquitoes are most active around dawn and dusk. They may also come out under heavy cloud cover or in darker, more shaded areas. Only the female mosquitoes actually bite people, however. This helps them reproduce. Both male and female mosquitoes consume nectar from flowers as another primary source of nourishment.
When seeking out a place to lay their eggs, most female mosquitoes will choose areas of standing or stagnant water. Ponds, swamps, marshes, and other similar places often become infested with mosquitoes. Environments that are hot and humid are the most favorable, so you’re likely to see a lot more mosquitoes on overcast, humid days right after it rains. On your own property, keep alert for signs of mosquitoes. Getting rid of any sources of standing water, such as clogged gutters, rain barrels, and birdbaths, can often do a lot to help combat a mosquito infestation. We’ll talk more about how to prevent mosquitoes in a little while, but first, let’s look at the primary reason that getting rid of mosquitoes in your yard is so important.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases: How These Insects Pose A Serious Danger
Mosquitoes carry a lot of diseases, many of which can be potentially fatal. They are one of the most potentially dangerous insects in the world. Luckily, the worst disease that mosquitoes carry, malaria, has not been a major concern in the United States since the 1940s. Some of the other diseases you can get from mosquitoes include encephalitis, West Nile virus, and dengue fever. These diseases can be fatal if not treated properly, but there are ways to prevent them.
Statistically, only a small number of mosquitoes in the United States carry these diseases. Hence, you aren’t likely to contract them, but it’s better to keep yourself as safe as possible. Next, we’ll talk about how you can more effectively protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Mosquito Prevention: Eco-Friendly And Effective Tips
Mosquitoes are likely to be attracted to your yard in some capacity, no matter what you do. For those species that feed on humans, residential areas are often an ideal place to stay. You can, however, make your property and your family less appealing to mosquitoes by doing a few simple things. Some of these steps include:
- Avoiding the outdoors at dawn and dusk
- Emptying any water containers where mosquitoes might lay eggs after it rains
- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when you go outside, if possible
- Using an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or some other effective EPA-approved ingredient
- Making sure all the screens on your windows and door are working properly
These are somenatural ways to repel mosquitoes. Following the steps above should help you keep your Tulsa home safe from mosquitoes. If you do find yourself dealing with mosquitoes, the best course of action is to call a professional pest control company like Montgomery Exterminating.
Total Mosquito Control: How Professionals Ensure Long-Lasting Results
Since 1989, Montgomery Exterminating has been serving the Tulsa, OK, area, bringing homeowners like you outstanding pest control services. If you need to rid your yard of mosquitoes, you can always call us.
We offer pest-free guarantees, and we’ll work with you personally to form the perfect mosquito treatment plan for your property. Contact Montgomery Exterminating today for help with mosquitoes and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Tulsa.
