Mosquito Season
Summertime is right around the corner and you know what that means: mosquitoes are too. Here’s what you need to know:
Mosquitoes & Water
It’s true that mosquitoes are more common where there is water, and this is due to their attraction to moisture. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on the surface of any standing water. The eggs will hatch and live on top of the water until they grow to be adults.
The Ectoparasite
Ectoparasite is another name for a female mosquito. Female mosquitoes are the only ones with tube-like mouths that are capable of piercing the skin in order to extract blood. This is called a proboscis, which is so sharp and thin you may not feel when it is inserted. Many people believe it’s the initial “bite” that causes the itching, swelling, and pain but it actually comes from the mosquito’s saliva. Proteins in the saliva trigger a mild immune system reaction that results in the characteristic itching and bumps.
A Mosquitoes Prey
The host in which a mosquito feeds on varies from mammal, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and some fish. The female lands on the skin and inserts her proboscis to begin sucking the blood. Female mosquitoes use the protein and iron found in blood to produce their eggs. They also feed on water and nectar, just like the male mosquitoes do.
The Dangers Of A Mosquito
Mosquitoes carry deadly diseases such as the Zika virus, Malaria, the West Nile virus, Yellow Fever, and more. These diseases are spread through mosquitoes when they feed on an infected person, and then transfer them to their next meal. They are also transferred when a parasite enters the mosquito’s abdomen and then exits through the proboscis during the next feeding.
Getting Rid of the Bloodsuckers
Treatment requires eliminating sources as well as chemical control products. Eliminating any standing water, keeping weeds trimmed and grass cut low, repellent spray and citronella oil are great ways to keep mosquitoes away on your own. Hiring a pest control company to inspect and identify the exact species of mosquito is highly recommended. Once the inspection and identification are complete, your pest management professional will prepare a mosquito treatment plan that provides recommendations and assistance for both source reduction and necessary chemical product use. Call 3 Seasons today to get an early start on mosquito control!