Not only are mosquitoes incredibly annoying, but these summertime pests can also be extremely dangerous due to the number of diseases they carry. From Malaria to West Nile Virus, it only takes one bite from the wrong mosquito to be exposed to one of these deadly illnesses.
When it comes to preventing mosquito bites, it is important to know what is attracting them in the first place. Keep reading to learn what may be attracting these pests to your Northeastern Pennsylvania home and why professional mosquito control is the only long-term solution to your mosquito woes.
Standing Water for Breeding
Mosquitoes are known to be attracted to standing water, as this serves as a breeding ground for their larvae. For this reason, you may notice a lot of mosquitoes flying around things like bird baths and kiddie pools.
Therefore, having standing water on your property can be extremely dangerous if you or someone in your home is pregnant, as getting bitten by a mosquito can expose you to a variety of different diseases.
Solution
Examine your yard after a rainstorm for any pools of water inside of gutters, bird baths, or even just your lawn. Consider also dumping out your child’s kiddie pool after use instead of leaving it filled up during the season.
Foliage and Yard Debris for Shelter
Mosquitoes tend to hang around yards with excess foliage and debris, which gives them a place to dwell and hide. Failing to maintain your yard will not only invite mosquitoes but also a wide variety of pests, including cockroaches and ants.
Solution
Keep a consistent lawn and yard care routine, including regularly cutting the grass and trimming excess foliage. This will reduce the amount of mosquitoes hanging around your property.
Perspiration and CO2 for Food
Unfortunately, human blood is full of protein and amino acids, which are essential ingredients for mosquito survival and reproduction. One way they can sense a human host from several feet away is by sniffing out the CO2 you exhale and the sweat you perspire. CO2 indicates heat, while perspiration is full of lactic acid and ammonia, which mosquitoes tend to desire. The combination of sweat and air makes you a savory host for mosquitoes looking for a quick snack.
Solution
While we can’t hold our breath while outside, there are several things you can do to deter mosquitoes. First, shower as soon as possible after spending significant time outside. By rinsing off after sweating, you will give mosquitoes less reason to be attracted to you.
Likewise, long sleeves will cover any sweat and limit the surface area mosquitoes have to bite you.
Colognes and Perfumes in Floral Scents
Speaking of smells, wearing strong colognes or perfumes, especially with floral scents, can attract mosquitoes and increase your chances of being bitten. Likewise, studies even show that showering with floral scents can also increase your likelihood of being bit.
Solution
Try to refrain from using strongly scented perfumes before spending time outdoors. This also includes shampoo, body lotion, and any other scented products that could make you a target for these bothersome pests.
Dark Colors for Heat Retention
Mosquitoes tend to prefer dark colors due to their ability to absorb and retain heat. Dark colors also typically stand out more than light colors, making it easier for mosquitoes to spot you.
Solution
Choose the color of your clothing carefully before heading outdoors this summer. If you can help it, try to avoid wearing dark colors and instead opt for lighter colors when getting dressed.
How to Keep Mosquitoes Away from You and Your Yard
Before you go switch up your hygiene routine and wear brighter colors, there are several things you can do to keep mosquitoes away from your property, including:
- Using a mosquito yard spray around the edge of your property (professional assistance recommended)
- Installing mosquito nets in outdoor spaces, such as a patio or deck
- Growing mosquito-repellent plants like citronella and lavender
- Installing high-speed fans on outdoor patio areas
- Burning citronella candles at night
Why Professional Pest Control Is the Only Surefire Solution
When dealing with a pest problem of any kind, it is always wise to reach out to a trusted professional. Mosquitoes can be difficult to eliminate, especially if you live near ponds or other water bodies that you cannot remove.
While many of these prevention tips can temporarily keep mosquitoes away, the only long-term solution is to apply a yard spray.
Be cautious though, as yard sprays contain dangerous chemicals that require proper application. Likewise, these sprays can harm beneficial insects, like honeybees, if haphazardly applied.
A trusted exterminator, like The Pest Rangers, will diligently apply a yard spray around the perimeter of your property to avoid unwanted exposure and ensure 100% effectiveness. Yard sprays are generally applied every six weeks throughout the warmer months to ensure a mosquito-free yard. If you’re interested in getting rid of mosquitoes from your NEPA yard for good, contact us to learn more about our mosquito yard sprays.
FAQs
Why are mosquitoes attracted to some people more than others?
People with a higher metabolic rate, such as those who work out a lot or are pregnant, may notice that they get bitten by mosquitoes more than others. This is because they tend to exhale more CO2, which makes them more attractive to mosquitoes.
What is the best way to avoid mosquito bites outdoors?
One of the best ways to prevent mosquito bites is to wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors. Making it more difficult for mosquitoes to land on you will greatly reduce the number of bites you get, so consider covering your arms, legs, and feet before heading outdoors this summer.
Do mosquito-repellent wristbands work?
Mosquito-repellent wristbands are marketed as a more natural way to prevent mosquito bites than topical bug sprays, but they are unfortunately not known to be effective. While wearing a mosquito-repellent wristband won’t hurt, you should double up on protection by covering your arms and legs when spending time outdoors.