Mosquitoes are always a nuisance, especially in the warmer months when they spread like wildfire throughout the state. These insects are attracted to you and your property for a number of reasons, from water sources to even your blood type. If you’re wondering why mosquitoes seem to love you and what you can do about it, read on. In this article, the Decatur pest control experts from Tuxedo Pest Control will cover important mosquito facts and ways you can keep them away from you and your property,
Mosquitoes: Habits And Behaviors Of The Little Fly
Believe it or not, most mosquitoes are harmless pollinators that consume nectar from flowers. Only female mosquitoes bite humans, and only for the sake of their eggs which use protein from your blood to hatch. The females lay their eggs in water, especially stagnant water. When their eggs hatch, mosquito larvae fill the water and rapidly begin growing.
Some mosquitoes, like the Asian tiger mosquito, feed during daylight hours, but the majority of mosquitoes search for food during dawn or dusk. Despite the sheer number of bites you may receive, humans are not the only source of blood for mosquitoes. They will also target dogs and cats, causing similarly irritating bites.
Why Mosquitoes Love You But Not Others
Despite being insects, mosquitoes in Decatur do have their preferences, not unlike humans. Certain people will be more likely to attract mosquitoes, while others may not get bitten very often. The first thing mosquitoes will be attracted to is exposed skin, as it’s the easiest to pierce and drink through, though they will attack through thin clothing if necessary.
Mosquitoes seem to also have a preference for certain blood types, which they can detect by smell. Research has shown that people with type O blood seem to be more attractive to mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are also attracted to carbon dioxide, which we exhale when we breathe. If you’re breathing heavier than others nearby, the mosquitoes may be attracted to your carbon dioxide.
Dark clothing can also attract mosquitoes, so if you tend to wear darker clothes, you might be making yourself a target for mosquitoes. Similarly, mosquitoes may be attracted to individuals who have consumed alcohol. This could be due to any number of reactions alcohol has with our bodies, including an increase in carbon dioxide production.
How To Make Yourself Less Attractive To Mosquitoes
While there’s nothing you can do about your blood type, there are several other ways you can make yourself less enticing to mosquitoes. Making yourself less attractive to mosquitoes can be simple. Here are a few ways to keep mosquitoes away:
- Wear long sleeves and pants whenever possible outside. Exposed skin gives mosquitoes easy access to your blood, attracting them to you.
- Use mosquito repellents that contain DEET. DEET has been shown as the most effective mosquito repellent ingredient.
- Consider using essential oils for repelling mosquitoes, such as citronella, thyme, or neem oil. These oils have been shown to be effective, and the plants they are made from can be used to deter mosquitoes as well.
- Wear lighter-colored clothing, since darker clothes seem to attract mosquitoes.
- Avoid going outdoors around dawn and dusk, when mosquito activity is at its highest.
In addition to making yourself less attractive to mosquitoes, you should also make your property less attractive. You can do this by eliminating any standing water around your yard and cutting back overgrown vegetation.
Preventing encounters with mosquitoes is the best way to avoid itchy mosquito bites and the dangers that can come from them. A mosquito infestation can cause undue stress for you, your pets, and your family if it’s left unchecked. The most effective method of prevention isn’t something you can do alone, however.
The Best Way To Protect Your Yard From Mosquito Invasions
The best way to repel mosquitoes is to contact a pest control specialist to protect your yard. The mosquito technicians at Tuxedo Mosquito Control offer routine misting and spraying services to give you control over how your yard is protected.
DIY solutions can only last so long, and sometimes they can be risky to your health. Don’t put your faith in a solution without a professional opinion. Contact the mosquito technicians at Tuxedo Pest Control today to learn more.