Mosquitoes

What are mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are very common insects that can be found living all across the entire world. These insects are considered parasitic pests, but only the females actually feed on the blood of humans and animals in order to get the protein they need to make their eggs. However, both males and females feed on plant nectar as their main food source.

What a mosquito looks like depends on their exact species but, in general, adult mosquitoes typically have slender bodies, long legs, narrow, hairy wings and are typically black, dark brown, or black and white in color. They also have specialized extended mouthparts that they use to feed on the blood of their hosts and nectar. 

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Yes, mosquitoes are dangerous. In fact, they are considered to be one of the deadliest animals in the world due to the vast number of dangerous diseases they can spread to both people and animals. In the United States, mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting harmful diseases like West Nile virus, encephalitis, and  Zika virus.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

Mosquitoes are attracted to properties that provide them with a plentiful supply of breeding grounds and food sources. Standing water attracts mosquitoes as that is where the females lay their eggs, so ornamental ponds, marshes, wading pools, drainage ditches, clogged gutters, and containers like buckets, trash cans, and wheelbarrows that collect rainwater can all attract mosquitoes and allow their populations to thrive. In addition, properties with an abundance of flowering vegetation can also attract mosquitoes.

Where are mosquitoes commonly found?

During the heat of the day, mosquitoes like to rest in tall grasses and areas of dense vegetation. At dusk and dawn when the temperatures are at their coolest, they emerge from their hiding spots to search for food. While mosquitoes are mostly outdoor pests, they can find their way inside through open windows and doors or through holes in screens.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

The best way to reduce the numbers of mosquitoes that are living and breeding on your property is to contact a professional pest control company for assistance. At Reynolds Pest Management, our professionals will complete a pest analysis and identify what is attracting mosquitoes to your property. Based on our findings, we will create a treatment plan to reduce mosquito populations, minimizing your family’s exposure to them. To learn more about our mosquito control options, reach out to us today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

Mosquitoes can be difficult pests to prevent, but the following tips can help to deter mosquitoes from choosing your Florida property to live and breed on:

• Reduce the areas of standing water on your property.

• Keep gutters well-maintained to direct water away from your home’s exterior.

• Keep wading pools, wheelbarrows, flower pots, pet dishes, and other containers stored upside down when not in use.

• Repair or replace window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home and away from your family.

• Keep your home's windows and doors closed as much as possible.

However, the most effective way to prevent problems with mosquitoes is to invest in professional mosquito control services for your home, like the ones we offer here at Reynolds Pest Management, Inc! For more information about our services and how they could benefit your home and property, give us a call at (844) 326-3100 today!