What Are Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are small, flying, blood-feeding insects. Generally, mosquitoes are about ? of an inch long. They have elongated but slender bodies that are predominantly gray with iridescent scales. Among their features are antennae, a set of wings, a long proboscis (mouthpart), and six skinny legs.
Mosquitoes in Georgia lay eggs in standing water. High numbers of mosquitoes on your property likely means that mosquitoes are breeding nearby. Adult mosquitoes like to rest in the shady areas of your yard during the hottest part of the day, becoming more active around dawn and dusk.
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite People?
Everyone knows that mosquitoes bite, but it is actually only females that do so. They do so in order to reproduce – they can't make eggs without blood. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, feed on plant nectar and do not bite humans or animals.
The reason bites itch, turn red, and appear swollen is that humans have bodily reactions to the pest's saliva. Mosquito bites can be extremely itchy and annoying, but they generally clear up within a few days. Unfortunately, it is possible to contract diseases from mosquitoes. Some of the diseases that you can get from mosquitoes in the United States include West Nile virus, chikungunya, and encephalitis.
What Attracts Mosquitoes To Yards?
Our environment partly depends on mosquitoes to pollinate plants by consuming the nectar. These critters often flutter around shrubs, bushes, trees, and the like. They also rely on trees and vegetation to provide shady areas for them to rest during the day. Water is also a magnet, as mosquitoes lay eggs in it. Sources of standing water, such as birdbaths, water-filled flower pots, and clogged gutters, can all serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
What's The Best Way To Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Many purchase over-the-counter products or try home remedies for mosquitoes to address these pests. While these avenues may reduce their populations, it will only be for a brief time. That said, there are a few ways that you can reduce mosquitoes in your yard:
Burn citronella candles and use fans to repel mosquitoes.
Cover or remove standing water.
Don't let grass or vegetation become overgrown.
Keep your gutters free of debris to prevent them from filling with water.
Don't waste your efforts and money on "do it yourself" approaches. Tuxedo Mosquito Control can provide reliable, safe, and cost-effective treatments for mosquitoes. Our MistAway system releases timed doses of insecticide, which will create a protective barrier around your property. With two or three mists each day, mosquitoes will be gone before you know it. Call or email us today to request a free quote!