Although they’re most common in warm, tropical climates, mosquitoes can live just about anywhere in the world. This means that virtually all of us will experience a mosquito bite at some point in our lives. Unfortunately, mosquitoes don’t just cause itchy bites and occasional allergic reactions: They also spread disease. They need water to survive and breed, so if you want to tackle an infestation at its source, you’ll need to identify problem areas on your property and eliminate them.
Look for one of two basic habitats: permanent standing water and areas that flood. Some mosquitoes lay their eggs in floating raft-like structures. This can be either stagnant or clean water depending on the species. These eggs often hatch in just a few day, and the larvae will continue to develop into adult mosquitoes. Other mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in damp soil. These eggs can remain viable even when the ground dries, but when the areas flood, the eggs will hatch and the larvae will grow.
When it comes to homes and yards, mosquitoes especially like to visit:
- Bird baths
- Flower pots
- Wading pools and swimming pools
- Eaves and drains
- Ornamental ponds and fountains
- Old tires or tire swings
- Tree holes
- Toys or buckets
- Drainage ditches
- Depressions in the ground
- Damp compost
To keep mosquitoes and other water-loving pests from becoming squatters on your land, you need to make your yard an unpleasant place for them. We recommend that you:
- Remove any containers that could hold water, and drill holes in the bottom of any necessary containers, such as flower pots.
- Clean gutters, storm drains and eaves regularly.
- Remove any old tires, and drill holes in the bottom of tire swings.
- Empty and turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows then you are not using them.
- Turn compost frequently to keep it well-aired, and remove any dense weeds or brush that could offer mosquitoes shelter.
- Use concrete, plastic or stone for ornamental ponds rather than organic matter, and add an aerator or fountain to keep the water moving.
- Keep your swimming pool well-maintained. If the cover is used, keep it clean, dry and free of organic matter and other debris.
- Consider grading your property to eliminate any depressions and uneven spots that could collect water.
You don’t have to deal with mosquitoes and other pests on your own. Contact Abarb Pest Solutions today to get a free quote with one of our licensed, insured and guaranteed pest professionals.
