Mosquito Facts

Mosquitoes are classified into the order Diptera (true flies) and have four distinct life stages (egg, larva, pupa, and adult).  Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on water or moist substrates such as soil and the interior walls of tree holes, cans, and old tires that are likely to be flooded by water. Most larvae hatch within 48 hours and the larvae and pupa live in water.  The adult mosquito emerges from the pupal case and rests on the water's surface until its body dries and its exoskeleton hardens.  Female mosquitoes require a blood meal before they lay eggs.  They bite every few days during their entire adult lives, which may last several weeks. (click here to see video clips of the life cycle of a mosquito.)

Homeowners can effectively reduce the number of mosquitoes around their homes and neighborhoods by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes grow and breed.

• Dispose of any refuse that can hold water, such as tin cans, containers, and in particular, used tires.  Tires have become the most important mosquito-breeding sites in the country.
  
  
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and check uncovered junk piles.
  
  
• Clean clogged roof gutters every year, and check storm drains, leaky outdoor faucets, and window wells.
  
  
• Empty accumulated water from wheelbarrows, boats, cargo, trailers, pet dishes, toys, and ceramic pots.  If possible, turn these items over when not in use.
  
  
• Do not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, ornamental pools, water gardens, and swimming pools or their covers.  Ornamental pools can be aerated or stocked with fish.  Swimming pools should be cleaned and chlorinated when not in use.
  
  
• Alter the landscape of your property to eliminate standing water.  Keep in mind that during warm weather, mosquitoes can breed in any puddle of water.
  
  

• Larvicide's are highly effective in controlling immature mosquitoes and should be considered when standing water cannot be eliminated.
  
                   

Even though your property may lack mosquito-breeding sites, mosquitoes can travel 2 to 3 miles from their breeding site in search of a blood meal.  Therefore, it may be necessary to supplement larval control with other control measures directed at adult mosquitoes.  The following tips can help to reduce your risk of being bitten by a mosquito:

• Make sure window and door screens are "bug tight."
  
  
• Use the proper type of light outside: incandescent lights attract mosquitoes, whereas fluorescent lights neither attract nor repel mosquitoes.
  
  
• Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active.  If you must go outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
  
  
• Insect repellents when applied (sparingly) to exposed skin deter mosquitoes from biting.  Spray thin clothing with repellent because mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing.  The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents used on children contain no more than 10 percent DEET, the active ingredient in mosquito repellents.  Be sure to follow all directions on product labels.