What Are Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are small biting pests. The female mosquitoes use their elongated mouthpart to pierce through the skin of an animal or human host to feed on their blood. They need blood meals to complete their life cycle, using the protein from blood to create viable eggs.
Mosquitoes belong to the same group (Diptera) as other true flies, and like other flies, they only have one pair of wings. These common Havertown insects have an oval body, long thin legs, and are brown or black. Some have white markings on their body and legs.
Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?
In nature, mosquitoes provide a valuable food source for many fish, frogs, birds, and bats. However, when they establish populations in areas where people spend time, mosquitoes are unwanted, dangerous pests.
The reason mosquitoes are so dangerous when on our properties is they spread pathogens and parasites to people and animals through their feeding habits. In Pennsylvania, mosquitoes spread the West Nile virus, eastern equine encephalitis, and chikungunya. In our region, mosquitoes also carry and infect our pets with parasitic heartworms.
In addition to the spread of diseases, mosquitoes are incredibly annoying. Their bites are itchy and unpleasant, and their presence can make it impossible for us to enjoy our outdoor spaces. Reactions to mosquito bites can range from mild swelling at the bite sites to large painful welts.
Why Do I Have A Mosquito Problem?
Mosquitoes can become a problem in any of our Havertown yards. These flying pests will travel to find both breeding sites and food sources. Standing water is where females like to lay their eggs, and plant nectar is the primary food source for both female and male mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are most active and breed fastest when temperatures are around 80 degrees. In Pennsylvania, mosquitoes are most problematic from March through October.
Where Will I Find Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are most active, and you are most likely to come into contact with these biting pests from dusk until dawn.
On bright sunny days, mosquitoes will rest during the day in areas of tall grass, under tree canopies or decks, and in other areas that provide them with shade. Unfortunately, cloudy days can mean mosquitoes are active and biting throughout the day!
Mosquitoes, especially young mosquitoes, swarm around their breeding sites. Most female mosquitoes prefer standing or stagnant water to lay their eggs. Water collecting in clogged gutters, tree hollows, woodpiles, buckets, and drainage ditches provides suitable breeding sites for mosquitoes.
In addition, heavily wooded areas house large populations of mosquitoes, so homes with or near wooded areas experience problems with swarms of mosquitoes.
How Do I Get Rid Of Mosquitoes?
To significantly reduce the number of biting, breeding mosquitoes living on your property, partner with the Havertown pest control experts at Cunningham Pest Control.
We want to help you reduce mosquito numbers on your property by providing targeted, comprehensive, and environmentally conscious services. Our technicians pay attention to detail and are committed to solving your property's unique mosquito problems.
Don't share your yard with mosquitoes for another day. Call us today to learn about our outdoor mosquito control options!
How Can I Prevent Mosquitoes In The Future?
Reduce mosquito numbers on your Pennsylvania property through professional mosquito control and the following prevention tips.
- Get rid of standing water from your yard.
- Store containers that collect water upside down or inside a shed or garage.
- Reduce resting spots by keeping the grass cut short and trees and shrubs well pruned.
- Mosquitoes are weak fliers. Place fans in outdoor sitting or eating areas to help push them away from you and your family.
- Limit the flowering vegetation you have near windows, doors, and sitting areas.
Reach out today for a consultation or information about mosquito control in Havertown!