Identify the Pest: Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes, also known as order Diptera, are a flying insect commonly seen in the summer months. They may seem like a simple bother, but they can actually be problematic for anyone who is allergic to them. These insects can even spread disease. Getting them under control is critical to maintaining the health of your family and pets.
Identify the Pest: Mosquitoes
While there are 3000 species of mosquitoes, most are similar in appearance and habitat. In North America, there are 150 known species. To determine if you have mosquitoes or just a common housefly, look at the wings to spot the pair of scaled wings all mosquitoes have. They also have a pair of halteres and thin bodies with most having six long legs. Some are smaller than 15 millimeters in length while others are significantly larger. These insects seem to be very fragile creatures but they are quite durable, especially when it comes to treating them.
The Mosquito Danger to Humans
Mosquitoes are anything but safe because they carry a wide range of severe illnesses including malaria, dengue, yellow fever and encephalitis. In addition to this, many people are allergic to their bite. The bite mosquitoes make on people or animals can cause red, swollen areas that itch. Over time, most people do develop immunity to mosquito bites, but these creatures are still dangerous because of the infectious disease they can carry. Those with a weakened or compromised immune system should take precautions against mosquitoes.
Facts about Mosquitoes
The earliest recorded presence of mosquito’s dates back to 144 million years ago during the Cretaceous period; these household pests are resilient. They have four distinct life cycles starting with an egg and progressing to a larval, pupal and then an adult. The lifespan of mosquitoes is on average four days, but others will survive overwinter to lay eggs in the spring. These pests will remain outdoors for the most part, but will come into homes where light, warmth or a host may be available. Mosquitoes like to breed near standing water, so removing sources can be one way to prevent larva development.
Only the female of the species extracts blood through the piercing and sucking devices in the mouth. When a female bites a person, a nerve stimulation substance causes the reaction. The mosquito uses the blood to produce eggs rather than for consumption. Some varieties do not use an animal or human host at all, but rather feed on the larva of other insects. In some cases, it is possible to use this type of mosquito to help control the population of other mosquitoes in the area, though this is best only for large infestations of animal-host mosquitoes.
Signs of a Mosquito Infestation
In general, mosquitoes are noticeable when they come into an area. A variety of things attract them, including smells and light, but in some cases, they simply seek out a host to bite. In all cases, the most common way to know you have an infestation of mosquitoes is by noticing a larger number of the flying creatures in a small area. This may indicate a large population of the insects. It is nearly impossible to spot eggs or larva from this species and thus, most people will not know they have an infestation until the pests are adults and are flying.
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes
Since mosquitoes most commonly remain outdoors, controlling mosquitoes is only possible in a limited fashion. It is possible to use mosquito control devices, such as electric zappers which work best in heavy population situations. Repellants can work too, in a limited fashion, since you must apply these to your skin to get the best results. Those containing diethyl carbate, ethyl hexanediol, diethyl phthalate and similar chemicals are the best at reducing the bite of these pests. Citronella, in the form of candles or oils can also work, but it is not as effective as skin topical treatments.
Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance in the backyard on a summer day. In addition to the information listed here, keep in mind that mosquitoes are attracted to open pools of water. This is where breeding occurs. To prevent infestations, ensure there are no containers holding rainwater or other water for any length of time. It is nearly impossible to eradicate all mosquitoes from the entire yard, though.
Mosquito Articles
- Mosquito Facts – Where do mosquitoes live? What do they eat (besides our blood)? How long does a mosquito live? All this and more in our special mosquito facts report!
- How to Kill Mosquitoes – Discover how to kill mosquitoes fast and prevent them from returning. Nobody likes mosquitoes and if you are dealing with an infestation then you need to know how to get rid of them quickly.
- Natural Mosquito Repellent – There are many options for you if using natural mosquito repellent appeals to you. You can choose from several store bought and home organic mosquito repellent solutions. Here are our top tips.
- Plants that Repel Mosquitoes – Mosquitoes are the fastest way to ruin a nice day outdoors. When you surround yourself with plants that repel mosquitoes, you create a virtual mosquito free zone. Discover our top four choices to keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Why do Mosquito Bites Itch? – Have you ever wondered why do mosquito bites itch? The answers may surprise you!
- Thermacell Mosquito Repellent – Thermacell Mosquito Repellent is a simple and easy to use system that will create a virtual mosquito barrier. Find out why we recommend this system to anyone looking for some relaxing mosquito-free outdoor time.
- How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes – Getting rid of mosquitoes is a fairly simple and straightforward process. Ideally prevention is the best cure, but for those of you already suffering from an infestation we’ve got the tips you need.
- How to Get Rid of Mosquito Bites – You will want to get rid of mosquito bites as quickly as possible to avoid any possible disease or infection from spreading. Find out the fastest methods available.
- How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching – There are several home remedies and over the counter solutions to help stop mosquito bites from itching. Take a look at this list and find the solution that is best for you.