An Effective Mosquito Prevention Guide For Southeast Florida Homeowners

Mosquitoes are flying pests most commonly known for being a disruptive nuisance among those participating in outdoor activities such as picnics, hiking, or camping. In the state's northern areas, "mosquito season" generally ranges from March to October. In many regions of South Florida, mosquitoes can appear as early as February. Mosquito activity significantly declines as temperatures reach 60 degrees and cease at 50 degrees.  

More than 3,000 various species of mosquitoes exist worldwide. How many types of mosquitoes are there in Florida? Estimates suggest that roughly 80 different species of mosquitoes exist throughout Florida. Among the most common species include the yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti), Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), and southern house mosquito (Culex quinquefasciatus). 

Has your yard become a haven for mosquitoes? Promptly contact a Southeast Florida pest control company for assistance. The professionals know how to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard and some of the best practices for preventing these unwanted creatures from returning to the property.  

What Are Mosquitoes? 

Mosquitoes are flying insects that thrive in warm and humid environments, particularly in areas with plenty of standing water, such as ponds or swamps. Female mosquitoes typically lay their eggs directly on or near pools of standing water. The eggs hatch in the water and progress through forms as larva and pupa before becoming adults. Based on various environmental factors, mosquitoes typically have a life span of between two and four weeks. 

Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and lice are vector pests or live organisms that spread diseases from one host to another. In many cases, young mosquitoes remain in the same general area throughout their lives.  

Mosquito Bites Can Be More Than Just Annoying 

Most mosquito bites result only in minor symptoms such as a patch of red, itchy, and irritated skin. More dangerous concerns associated with mosquitoes include dengue, the St. Louis encephalitis virus, West Nile virus, chikungunya, and the Zika virus. 

Male and female mosquitoes consume nectar from sources such as flowers and plants. Why do mosquitoes bite you? Male mosquitoes do not bite; however, female mosquitoes bite and drink blood, which supplies them with ample protein for generating the eggs needed for reproduction. 

Female mosquitoes can detect the carbon dioxide we emit during the breathing process. How do mosquitoes bite you? Once a mosquito lands on skin, a sharp mouthpart called a proboscis pierces through the exterior, which allows for extracting blood. Here, the bite victim faces exposure to the mosquito's saliva, which might contain pathogens.  

Five Simple Yet Effective Mosquito Prevention Tips 

Mosquitoes remain among the leading public health concerns throughout the country. Some of the most effective preventative measures include:  

1. When possible, plan outdoor activities during the hours around dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are less active. 
2. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants reduces the likelihood of enduring a bite.
3. The EPA recommends applying topical repellants, such as sprays or lotions containing DEET or IR 3535. 
4. Remove objects from yard areas that may hold standing water, such as pots, buckets, kiddie pools, old tires, and tarps. 
5. Regularly replace the water in birdbaths, which might contain developing mosquito eggs. 

The University of Florida completed some tests that revealed how DEET repellants remain effective for durations between 1.5 and 5 hours after an initial application. 

The Trick To Total Mosquito Control For Southeast Florida Homes 

Residents of Southeast Florida should contact an experienced local pest control company in response to mosquito-related concerns. The team of local mosquito experts with Mrs. Mosquito remains committed to operating in ways that protect human health and the local environment. Contact us today for a consultation.