Some pests are dangerous during their whole lifecycle. Others are only dangerous during certain times of the year. Still, others are only able to attack during a particular stage of their lifecycle. The dangerous mosquito can technically be considered a member of all three groups. These pests have a succinct four-part lifecycle with only one feeding stage. However, this final adult phase has the potential to wreak havoc on families, pets, and loved ones.
The mosquito lifecycle can be broken down into these four parts:
1. Egg: Mosquito eggs can be laid in small puddles of water that are less than a bottle cap in size. Eggs will hatch in roughly one or two weeks, although its actual time depends on water temperature, mosquito species, and food availability.
2. Larvae: The larvae portion of the mosquito lifecycle is sometimes referred to as the ‘wriggler’ stage. This is due to the larvae’s curious movement pattern underwater. This stage of the mosquito must molt several times to grow and surface to breathe oxygen.
3. Pupa: Mosquito pupae also live in an aqueous environment but no longer need to feed. Like a caterpillar, mosquito pupae lock themselves into a case for their final transformation. Due to their inability to move, they are often referred to as ‘tumblers’.
4. Adult: The adult stage of the mosquito lifecycle is the most dangerous of all. Fully grown mosquitoes can fly a short time after hatching and will fly up to a mile away from their origination point. Female mosquitoes will begin to feed on human blood to fertilize and lay their eggs, beginning the cycle all over again.
Due to the mosquito’s fast lifecycle, it is important to identify any larvae and breeding sites nearby. Here are a few quick tips for identifying mosquito larvae in Atlanta:
- Straight, linear larvae
- Large heads
- Brown, white, or cream in color
- Bristly growths on their abdomens
Most mosquito larvae are found in pools of standing water, ponds, and waterlogged soil. If any of these factors are present in your yard, you may need to act fast to prevent an infestation from arising.
Can You Eliminate Mosquito Larvae At Home?
The best way to start controlling mosquitoes is by eliminating their larvae. start by acting these helpful tips:
- Eliminate all standing water sources, including gutters, yard debris, birdbaths, fountains, and koi ponds.
- Cut away any trees, bushes, or vegetation that could be harboring stagnant water. It is important to eliminate moisture as quickly as possible to prevent mosquito egg-laying.
- Add mosquito larvicide to any standing water you cannot remove. This will eliminate pests before they become biting adults.
The elimination of mosquito larvae begins with do-it-yourself (DIY) prevention. However, the most foolproof, cost-effective, and efficient methodology involves the work of Tuxedo Mosquito Control.
Tuxedo Mosquito Control Takes The Guesswork Out Of Pest Management
In business for over 20 years, Tuxedo Mosquito Control makes it easy to detect, eliminate, and monitor the spread of mosquito larvae throughout their lifecycle. Our professional mosquito control crew quickly and easily identifies ways to keep your home safe while reducing the environmental footprint left by sprays and traditional treatments.
The best way to ensure the removal of all potential mosquito larvae and their breeding grounds is with professional assistance from Tuxedo Mosquito Control. See for yourself by requesting a free home estimate today! Contact us for effective mosquito control in Atlanta.