Mosquitoes remain a common flying pest that creates aggravation among people that participate in outdoor activities—most particularly during the hot summer months. Over 3,000 various species of mosquitoes exist throughout the world that will land on the bodies of humans and animals and use their sharp, elongated proboscis for piercing the skin and consuming a blood meal. Research suggests that the term “mosquito” originated in the Spanish and Portuguese languages as a word referring to a “little fly.”
Mosquitoes may function as vectors, which are creatures capable of spreading potentially harmful pathogens. Only female mosquitoes bite, as they derive protein in the blood that allows for the development of eggs needed for reproduction. Male mosquitoes primarily consume nectar and other plant-based material.
Adult mosquitoes range in size from roughly ¼ to ½ of an inch in length and typically appear in shades of brown or grey. Mosquitoes have a pair of wings, a slender body style, and long legs that usually dangle below their body during flight.
Austin mosquitoes thrive in the region’s hot and humid summer months and can make any outdoor activity less desirable. Have mosquitoes become a major concern throughout your property? A licensed expert specializing in pest control in Austin will determine the best product to keep mosquitoes away from your property.
The Role Mosquitoes Play In Our Ecosystem
Despite being a persistent nuisance among those participating in outdoor activities during the warmer months, mosquitoes play a significant role in the overall ecosystem. Mosquitoes represent a source of food for many creatures, including fish, birds, bats, and frogs. Meanwhile, male mosquitoes primarily consume nectar, a process that can pollinate types of plants.
The Potential Dangers Of A Mosquito’s Bite
Are mosquitoes dangerous creatures? Yes. When humans endure a bite, the mosquito’s saliva usually creates an adverse reaction that results in a red bump that becomes itchy and irritated. What diseases can mosquitoes carry? As mosquitoes travel between individuals, they may spread malaria, dengue fever, the Zika virus, and many other potentially dangerous health-related concerns.
Across the U.S., federal, state, and local agencies of public health routinely implement initiatives for limiting the mosquito population and providing education regarding the dangers that these creatures pose. Some of the categories of individuals who might experience more adverse reactions when bitten by mosquitoes include children, those without any previous exposure to mosquitoes, and those with weakened immune systems.
People who experience a bite should promptly clean the skin area with soap and water. Applying ice is often helpful for limiting swelling and skin irritation. Some individuals find that applying a mix of baking soda and water to the affected area helps with limiting itchy skin.
Mosquitoes might also harm various types of animals. For example, mosquitoes can expose dogs, horses, and other animals to concerns, including heartworms and eastern equine encephalitis.
Are you wondering how to stop mosquitoes from biting you? Applying 0.5% permethrin to your clothes and equipment when participating in activities such as hiking, camping, and canoeing generally keeps most mosquitoes away. Wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants when venturing into outdoor areas, which limits the area of exposed skin that mosquitoes target. Keep in mind that mosquitoes usually remain active during the hours around dawn and dusk.
Why Do-It-Yourself Mosquito Control Is Such A Hassle
Internet retailers and local home improvement stores sell a host of various mosquito control products that they cleverly market with exaggerated claims such as “highly effective” or “simple and easy” solutions for limiting mosquitoes in Austin. Unfortunately, many of these mass-market options fail in demonstrating the sensational results that homeowners expect and simply generate prolonged frustration.
Some of the products available today include aerosol sprays, fogging devices, and traps that create very mediocre results. Further, a host of different gimmicky options exist in the market, including electronic zappers, ultrasonic noise-generating devices, and lanterns that also prove ineffective.
The course of action experts recommend for limiting the mosquito population on your property involves consulting with a qualified pest control professional that has the proper training and equipment with the most effective treatment options.
Call The Pros For The Best Mosquito Control For Your Yard
The specialists with Accurate Termite and Pest Control employ a comprehensive approach that generates results. One of the tools is the In2Care Mosquito Trap System which uses a larvicide for limiting the development of mosquito eggs. We also deploy fogging units for treating adult mosquitoes that will not harm the environment.
We encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an onsite property inspection.