The last thing any Central Florida homeowner wants is to be enjoying a quiet summer evening at home, only for it to be interrupted by the incessant buzzing of a mosquito. Or worse – a bite! You may be wondering: Why do I have mosquitoes? In this article, we’ll talk about common reasons why mosquitoes show up on someone’s property, as well as what you can do about them.
There are a plethora of ways that you can protect your home from these bloodsucking invaders, but first, you need to understand the way they think.
Is Your Property a Perfect Mosquito Habitat?
If you have a shady property with standing water, you are at high risk of a mosquito infestation. Some obvious examples of standing water sources are pools, ponds, or a nearby marsh. Some surprising sources of standing water are soggy grass, your pet’s water bowl, gutters, toys left in the yard, and even tires. Bottom line: The best conditions for mosquito breeding are warm, dark, and with plenty of moisture.
In order to prevent mosquitoes, first you need to know about the mosquito lifecycle:
- Mosquitoes take about 8-10 days to reach adulthood.
- Adult males will live for 6-7 days in search of a mate.
- Adult females will live for 6 weeks up to 5 months.
- A female mosquito can lay over 250 eggs at a time depending on the species.
- Mosquito eggs can survive drying out for up to 8 months – and they can even survive winter in the south.
- Once water levels submerge the egg it becomes a larva.
- Larvae take about 5 days to pupate, feeding on microorganisms.
- Once a pupae, it’s only 2-3 days before they become a bloodsucking adult.
Did you know not all mosquitoes feed on blood? All mosquitoes feed on nectar, but only female mosquitoes eat blood. They require the protein from blood for the development of their eggs. Adult mosquitoes will only fly up to a few blocks from their nursery, so if you’re experiencing a mosquito problem you likely have an infestation in need of treatment
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How Do Mosquitoes Get Inside?
Mosquitoes will spend their adulthood seeking out better breeding conditions closer to their food source – like inside your home. Adaptable to urbanization, mosquitoes will take advantage of any sources of moisture in your home in places like basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. As small as they are, they are very adept at finding their way in.
Here are a few ways you can protect your home:
- Repair or replace window and door screens
- Keep your doors closed as much as possible
- Use air conditioners, dehumidifiers, oscillating fans, and air curtains wherever possible
- Dump standing water
- Flush drains often
- Refresh pet bowls
- Burn candles and incense with scents that repel mosquitoes, like citronella
If you’re experiencing more than a few mosquitoes in your home, it may be time to call the professionals.
Dealing with biting pests? Learn how our all-in-one service package can protect you from vector-borne illnesses!
Forest Pest Control, Your Partners in Mosquito Control
The local mosquito experts at Forest Pest Control provide pest control you can trust in Central Florida. With innovative solutions and top-of-the-line technology, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands. If you suspect your home may have a mosquito infestation, or are seeking preventative measures, don’t hesitate to call today!
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