Mosquitoes are one of the most pesky insects in Houston and across the United States. Not only are they annoying, but they can also carry dangerous diseases like Zika virus and West Nile virus. August is typically when mosquito activity is at its peak here in Houston, so it’s important to be extra vigilant about protecting yourself and your family from these potentially harmful pests.
There are a few simple steps you can take to help prevent mosquitoes from taking over your yard and home. First, make sure to empty any standing water around your property, as mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. This includes things like kiddie pools, bird baths, flowerpots, and even gutters. You should also regularly mow your lawn and trim back any bushes or trees, as mosquitoes like to hide in tall grass and vegetation.
Finally, be sure to use an effective mosquito repellent when you’re spending time outdoors. Wear long sleeves and pants if possible, and apply repellent liberally to exposed skin. You can also buy mosquito traps to help keep the pests under control.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a mosquito-free summer here in Houston!
What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?
Adult mosquitoes are small, winged insects that typically measure between 1/8 and 3/8 of an inch in length. They have a slender body with long legs, and their head is equipped with a long proboscis that they use to pierce skin and suck blood. Females need blood for protein in order to produce eggs, while males feed primarily on nectar and other plant juices.
Mosquitoes come in a variety of colors, but most are some shade of brown or black, with lighter markings on their legs and bodies. Some species also have distinctive patterns on their wings.
Where Do Mosquitoes Live?
Mosquitoes can be found on every continent except Antarctica, and they thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. In the United States, mosquitoes are most common in the southern and eastern states, although some species have been known to survive as far north as Alaska.
Mosquitoes typically lay their eggs in standing water, which can include anything from ponds and lakes to puddles and birdbaths. The eggs hatch into larvae, which develop into pupae before finally emerging as adults. The entire life cycle can take anywhere from a week to a month, depending on the species and the temperature.
What Do Mosquitoes Eat?
As mentioned above, female mosquitoes need blood in order to produce eggs. They will feed on any mammal or reptile they can find, although they prefer human blood. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, do not feed on blood at all. Instead, they subsist on nectar and other plant juices.
What Diseases Do Mosquitoes Carry?
Mosquitoes are vectors for a number of diseases, meaning they can transmit these illnesses to humans and animals through their bites. Some of the most common diseases associated with mosquitoes include Zika virus, West Nile virus, malaria, dengue fever, and chikungunya. These diseases can cause a range of symptoms, from mild fever and rash to more serious conditions like neurological damage and death.
How Can I Prevent Mosquito Bites?
The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to avoid areas where mosquitoes are known to congregate. This includes standing water, tall grass, and shady areas. If you must be in an area where mosquitoes are present, be sure to wear long sleeves and pants, and apply an effective mosquito repellent to exposed skin. You can also buy mosquito traps to help keep the pests under control.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a mosquito-free summer!
But What Can CPL Pest Control Do To Eliminate Mosquitoes?
CPL Pest Control offers a variety of mosquito control services to help keep your home and yard free of these pesky pests. We start with a thorough inspection of your property to identify any potential mosquito breeding grounds. We then work with you to create a customized treatment plan that may include things like larvicide treatments, adulticide treatments, and the placement of mosquito traps.
Our goal is to eliminate the mosquitoes on your property so you can enjoy your time outdoors without worry. Contact CPL Pest Control today to learn more about our mosquito control services!
