Mosquitoes

What are mosquitoes?

We all know what mosquitoes are; they are those small flies we hear buzzing around our heads right before they land on our skin to deliver their itchy bites. Mosquitoes are most commonly associated with the spring and summer when the weather is hot and humid, providing them with the perfect breeding conditions.

Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on top of areas of standing water or in regions that are likely to flood. To create their eggs, the females require blood meals from warm-blood animals. Only the females supplement their diet with blood; the primary food source for male and female mosquitoes is plant nectar and other sweet liquids. Mosquitoes feed on plant nectar and blood using their elongated, piercing mouthpart called a proboscis.

Contact a Boise home pest control professional to completely protect your home from mosquitoes. 

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Mosquitoes have short lifespans, but they wreak a lot of havoc while they are here. Mosquitoes are unpleasant to have in our yards as their constant bites make it impossible for people to enjoy their outdoor spaces. Nobody can relax when being constantly bitten by mosquitoes and dealing with the aftermath of their itchy bites.

Mosquitoes feed on blood, and through their feeding process, they quickly and efficiently spread pathogens that make people ill. Worldwide, mosquitoes spread diseases like West Nile virus, chikungunya virus, dengue, and deadly malaria.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

If you have excess moisture or areas of standing water on or near your property, you will have problems with mosquitoes.

Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water, the eggs hatch, and the larvae develop into adults. The new adults tend to stay close to where they hatch. Therefore the more breeding sites or standing water you have on your property, the more mosquitoes you will have swarming your outdoor space.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

There will be mosquitoes wherever there is water, vegetation, and warm-blooded animals. Wooded areas, fields, orchards, marshes, parks, and drainage areas are areas where mosquitoes make themselves at home.

Our Idaho yard also provides mosquitoes with the perfect habitats to thrive. During the middle of the day, mosquitoes like to hide in the shade. Yards with many trees, tall grass, and dense vegetation attract mosquitoes looking for a resting spot.

The following are things found in many of our yards that collect rainwater and provide mosquitoes with the standing water they need to complete their life cycle.

• Tree stumps and tree hollows
• Old tires
• Clogged gutters
• Trashcans and recycling bins
• The tops of tarps
• Containers like flower pots, buckets, and wheelbarrows
• Pet bowl

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

To reduce the number of mosquitoes on your Idaho property, partner with a professional. At Affinity Pest Control, we perform pest control services that are effective, responsible, and eco-friendly.

Our mosquito treatment services are completed monthly from May through September when mosquito numbers are highest and most active. Our Boise pest professionals are committed to treating the mosquitoes and their breeding sites on your property, making it possible for you and your family to be comfortable in your backyard. Protect your home and family by trusting Affinity Pest Control! For more information about our mosquito control services and high-quality treatments, reach out today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

The most effective way to prevent swarming and biting mosquitoes is to partner with us at Affinity Pest Control and implement the following prevention tips:

Eliminating standing water and shady areas are the two best ways to limit the number of mosquitoes flying around your property.

• Regularly mow your lawn to keep the grass cut short.
• Cut back tree limbs and shrubbery.
• Remove leaf piles, brush piles, and unnecessary woodpiles from your yard.
• Store containers that can collect rainwater upside down or indoors.
• Regularly change the water in birdbaths, wading pools, and pet dishes.
• Shake water off of tarps and the tops of trash can lids.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris that can cause water to collect.