When Do Mosquitoes Bite?
You can be bitten by a mosquito at any time of the day, although certain species are more active at different times. You have the highest risk of being bitten from just before dusk until dawn.
Female mosquitoes bite to suck blood, using the blood to develop their eggs.
What Attracts Mosquitoes To Us?
Mosquitoes are attracted to 4 stimuli:
- Carbon dioxide we exhale from as far as 50 feet away.
- Lactic acid on your skin when exercising.
- Certain scents or fragrances.
- Dark colors.
Do Mosquitoes Carry Disease?
Mosquitoes can transmit germs, but most mosquito bites will only cause itching or skin irritation.
Worldwide there are 3000 different species of mosquitoes, more than 150 found in North America. There are 51 recognized species of mosquitoes found in Massachusetts, where West Nile virus (WNV) is common.
How Do I Control The Mosquitoes Around My Home?
Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs. If your yard is wet and hospitable to mosquitoes, they are more likely to breed. The following are ways you can actively eliminate water sources and eradicate mosquito breeding:
- Drill holes in the bottom of any outside garbage or recycling containers.
- Clean and unclog your gutters.
- Make sure there is effective drainage from your gutters and no puddles in the drainage area.
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, even when not in use.
- Keep ornamental ponds aerated, and stock the pond with mosquito-eating fish.
- Dump water out of birdbaths, non-chlorinated wading pools, footbaths, garbage can lids, flower pots, and pet bowls. Discarding any unnecessary items that can hold water.
Will Active Lawn Care Affect Mosquito Breeding?
Most female mosquitoes live for less than two weeks and most males live for less than a week.
But if the condition of your lawn appeals to them, they can live for up to 8 weeks. Adult mosquitoes love damp, shady areas where they can hide from the sun, usually on tall weeds or other vegetation. Mow your lawn regularly, and keep weeds away from your home’s foundation.
