As wet weather becomes more frequent and the days are still warm, many of us look forward to relaxing in the evenings on our patios. However, the pesky presence of the mosquito population can quickly turn these relaxing moments into a swatting frenzy.
Make your patio a mosquito-free zone with some effective strategies and tips, as well as professional mosquito control services, to keep mosquitoes at bay so you can reclaim your outdoor space.
What Attracts Mosquitos?
It turns out that mosquitos have a keen sense of smell and can detect certain odors up to 100 feet away. One of the most potent scents that attract mosquitos is carbon dioxide, the gas that we exhale during breathing. Additionally, mosquitos are drawn to body heat, so the warmer you are, the more likely these pests are to come buzz around you.
Even standing water like a bird bath can play a huge part in attracting mosquitos. They also are attracted to perspiration and the bacteria on our skin, particularly lactic acid. So, if you’re planning on spending some time outside in Ocean County, New Jersey when the weather is warm wear mosquito repellent and while you’re at it, try to keep yourself cool and avoid sweating too much.
Preventive Measures For Mosquitos
The oppressive heat of summer may be over, but fall brings outdoor activities and fun. With back to school, end of season bbqs and trick or treating, come mosquitoes that love to crash your party. Here’s how to prevent mosquitos from bugging you and your family.
Regular patio maintenance is key to removing mosquito breeding ground and preventing standing water buildup. Look for areas where water can collect and eliminate them, such as emptying bird baths, emptying buckets, and filling in low spots.
Another way to deter mosquitos is to plant mosquito repelling plants into your garden. These plants, such as lavender, citronella, and marigolds, can help to repel mosquitos from your outdoor space and provide a beautiful and fragrant addition to your yard. Take these steps to ensure a bug-free “local summer” filled with enjoyable outdoor activities.
Mosquito Traps
Unlike other solutions, traps are a passive way to control mosquito populations without any need for harsh chemicals or sprays. Mosquito traps come in many different varieties, from electrically-charged models to ones that use CO2 to attract the pesky mosquitoes.
Some traps even use scent lures that mimic human breath, effectively filling the air which will attract mosquitoes into flying towards the trap instead of landing on unsuspecting humans. With a good mosquito trap on your side, you can finally enjoy the outside without fear of bites or disease.
Effective Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes are relentless pests that could ruin your outdoor activities but there are several effective products to repel mosquitoes available on the market. Many mosquito repellents often contain DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil, which are proven to keep mosquitoes at bay. However, if you’re looking for a more natural mosquito repellent, you can also make your own solutions using ingredients like essential oils, garlic, or apple cider vinegar. Or use the citronella candles method
While some homemade solutions may not be as potent as their commercial counterparts, they are better for the environment and safer for your skin. Whether you prefer store-bought or homemade repellents, there’s no excuse to let mosquitoes ruin your outdoor fun.
Physical Barriers
It’s too cool out for indoor air conditioning, but it’s too warm in the house. Open those windows, but leave the bugs outside! Mosquito netting and screens are among the best physical barriers against insects. Fine mesh barriers prevent mosquitoes, flies, and other insects from entering homes while facilitating ventilation. Proper installation is crucial for getting the most out of your mosquito net or screen.
It’s important to ensure that every opening is covered and that there are no gaps or tears. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance can significantly prolong the lifespan of these barriers. When used properly, mosquito nets and screens can not only improve the quality of your sleep but also protect against insect-borne diseases.
Professional Help
Mosquitoes can be not only a nuisance but also a health hazard. We know that the cold weather is coming all too soon and you want to enjoy the last few weeks of comfortable weather outdoors in your yard! At Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control, we offer prompt, quality exterminator services for mosquitoes and other pests. Our family-owned and operated company is led by proprietor Mike Callahan, who ensures that our inspectors and technicians are skilled, experienced professionals.
We are fully insured and licensed by the state of New Jersey to provide you with comprehensive pest control options, including wood destroying insect inspections, mold removal, and crawl space encapsulation. We also offer repair services for any damage caused by previous infestations. Count on us to rid your home of mosquitoes and leave you with customer satisfaction as our ultimate goal. Choose the right pest control service – choose Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control.
How To Detect Mosquito Larvae?
The mosquito species can be a real nuisance, especially during the warm weather that sometimes persists well into Fall at the Jersey Shore. While there are many methods for controlling mosquito populations, one of the most effective is identifying and eliminating mosquito larvae. To do so, you’ll need to know what to look for. Mosquito eggs are often found in standing or stagnant water and can be recognized by their small, worm-like bodies and their tendency to move erratically.
Detecting these larvae early on can help prevent the spread of disease, so it’s important to act quickly if you suspect a problem. With a little bit of knowledge and some careful observation, you can help keep yourself and your community safe from these pesky pests all season long.
Final Thoughts About Mosquito Control
Effective mosquito control is a multifaceted approach that involves preventive measures, the use of traps and repellents, physical barriers, and even professional help when needed. It’s also crucial to detect and eliminate mosquito larvae to stop the problem at its source.
By implementing these methods, we can enjoy our outdoor activities, protect our homes, and most importantly, safeguard our health from mosquito-borne diseases. Remember, a proactive approach to mosquito control is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a mosquito infestation. Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy your mosquito-free yard.