Is There Anything I Can Do Now About Mosquitoes?

If you're worried about mosquitoes, we understand. There was a time when mosquitoes were just irritating pests that left itchy welts on our skin, but now, with mosquitoes appearing in the news more and more, and dangerous viruses like Zika and West Nile spreading their reach further into the U.S., we're starting to find out what the rest of the world already knows; these are not just nuisance pests. So, what can you do to protect yourself and your family?

The Secret Mosquitoes Don't Want You To Know

Mosquitoes love still water. Knowing this can make an immediate impact on how many mosquitoes you'll have in your yard. Why? Because many of the mosquitoes that bite you in your backyard came from somewhere on your property, or a neighbor's property. These insects aren't very good at flying. That is why a good breeze can keep them away. These are not insects that travel miles to get a bite to eat. In fact, many mosquitoes don't travel more than a couple miles away from breeding areas.

The mosquito species known as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are considered prime vectors for Zika and other harmful viruses, have a limited flight range of between 100 and 500 meters. Keeping your yard free of breeding areas can keep your family safer when you're at home.

Preventing breeding areas isn't easy. And, depending on your yard, it may not be something you can do on your own. Here are a few tips:

• Make sure your gutters are not obstructed. It doesn't take much water for these mosquitoes to breed.

• Address areas of your yard where dampness remains after it rains.

• If you have a bird bath or some other object that holds water, you may want to consider swapping it for something less mosquito-friendly.

• If you have objects in your yard, like a tarp spread over something, be aware that mosquitoes can use tiny pools of rainwater to breed in.

• Kid's toys in the yard, and other lawn clutter, can capture rainwater. These should be stowed away as often as possible.

For complete control of mosquito breeding areas, especially on properties that have ponds, brooks, and other water sources, or to address mosquitoes that are currently hiding in the vegetation in your yard, professional mosquito service is the best option.

At All-American, our Perimeter Plus program addresses mosquitoes, along with four other common outdoor pests, in one easy service. Give us a call to schedule service for your home or business.