PEST OF THE MONTH
July - Mosquito
Mosquitoes are the most common uninvited guest to your backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings.
The transmission of malaria, yellow fever, dengue, and some types of encephalitis by the mosquito have all been past problems in the United States, however, these hungry pests are still a problem we will continue to fight throughout the world.
Mosquitoes undergo complete metamorphosis. This means the mosquito goes through four life stages, egg, larva, pupa and adult. Eggs are laid on a wet surface or in a place that they will become wet when water rises. Consequently, mosquito activity is highest during the summer months. Breeding site examples can be in clogged rain gutters, accumulating water sites, such as tires, barrels, cans, bird baths and so forth. In addition to the elimination of breeding sites, resting areas must also be removed. This includes overgrown vegetation and weeds.
Known for their severe bites, the females are the stage that feeds on blood especially at dusk and after dark. She uses a number of sensors to seek out her prey. These include chemical sensors, visual sensors and heat sensors. So if you are outdoors during these times, she will find you.
Outdoor control of mosquitos with residual treatments can then be coupled with wearing EPA-registered repellents to keep adult mosquitoes at bay.