Topics: Mosquito, pests

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How Do I Know if I Need Mosquito Control?

Posted by Nate Bahler on Feb 13, 2020 1:08:36 PM
Nate Bahler

Throughout Connecticut we have over 48 different species of mosquitoes but only a dozen are considered pests. Female mosquitos are the only sex that bite humans and draw blood, while males feed on plant nectar. 

Mosquitos have existed for over 200 million years carrying numerous harmful diseases and are a nuisance when spending time outdoors.


What Diseases Do Mosquitos Carry?

As the weather gets warmer, mosquitos emerge from their dormant states.  Mosquito borne diseases are on the rise. Did you know that they are considered one of the most deadly animals in the world because of the diseases they can carry?

Common diseases that mosquitos can carry are:

  • Eastern Equine Encephalitis: EEE is spread by mosquitos infected with the virus. While rare, this infection can be fatal as it leads to brain swelling. In September 2019, Eastern Equine Encephalitis was found at a trapping site in South Windsor, Connecticut.  People all over the state were warned to take shelter at dusk to protect themselves from this potentially life threatening disease. 

    EEE in Connecticut
  • West Nile Virus:  The Center for Disease Control acknowledges West Nile Virus as the disease most widely spread by mosquitoes. Symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, chills, vomiting or aching joints. According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health there were 23 cases of West Nile Virus reported in 2018 in Connecticut.
     
  • Malaria: approximately 210 million people are affected with Malaria each year. 
  • Zitka: Transmitted primarily by the Aedes mosquito. This disease was first identified in humans in 1952. 
  • Yellow Fever: Can be prevented by vaccine and gets the “yellow” in its name from the jaundice that can affect its victims.

How to Control Mosquitos: 

Mosquitos bite humans in order to obtain protein to produce viable eggs for their next generation.  They are attracted to humans by the scent of carbon dioxide. Where does a lawn care company come in, you might ask?  View our Mosquito Control Service Page.

Backpack mist blower:  Liquid mosquito solution is forced into tiny particles by high-pressured air and blown into mosquito resting areas during the day. This method is very effective and can eliminate populations quickly. The top areas to target are:

  • Underside of tree leaves. 
  • Underneath decks
  • Drain spouts
  • High grasses 
  • Shaded areas

*Since most mosquitos have multiple generations per year and control products dissipate, multiple applications should be done per year for continuous control.  A solid mosquito management program requires spraying approximately every 21 days. This program typically starts in April and goes throughout the season until the end of September.

Male_vs_Female_Mosquito


Did you know
that mosquitos can breed in less than a half inch of water? That means that if you leave a tuna can (yes! something as small as a tuna can) out collecting water, you are giving mosquitoes a perfect little breeding ground. 

Simple at-home preventative actions can be taken by homeowners to supplement mosquito treatment provided by their lawn care company:

  • 1. Covering trash containers.
  • 2. Emptying pails
  • 3. Cleaning gutters & drains
  • 4. Draining ditches. 

Bottom Line: 

To eliminate large mosquito populations and make your lawn safer and more enjoyable for your family, call your trusted lawn care professional.  Be sure to stay on top of the easy at-home preventative actions to get the most out of your mosquito service. 

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