Mosquito Identification & Prevention

A type of flying insect, mosquitoes are a pest that lives worldwide. They thrive in tropical climates that provide them with a constant source of heat and humidity. In Philadelphia, our hot, humid summer offers the perfect backdrop for these pests to thrive.

Some essential facts to know about mosquitoes include:

• They have scales covering their tiny bodies, are winged, and have six legs that dangle below them when in flight.
• Mosquitoes tend to be most active at dawn and dusk but can and will bite day and night.
• Only female mosquitoes bite and feed on the blood of people and animals.
• Adult mosquitoes have a short lifespan of two to four weeks. 

The reason female mosquitoes need to consume blood meals is so that they can get the protein required to create healthy, viable eggs. Though mosquitoes may rely on us to help them complete their life cycle, they are unwanted, dangerous pests we must keep out of our backyards.

The mosquito's ability to spread parasites and disease-causing pathogens through their feeding habits makes these insects dangerous. Though the spread of disease by mosquitoes isn't as serious of an issue in the United States as in other parts of the world, it is still a threat. 

Mosquitoes in the U.S. are most known for spreading the West Nile virus, encephalitis, and parasitic heartworms. While not every mosquito that bites you is infected with a disease, the potential is there, so limiting your contact with these biting pests is always best.

In addition to the spread of disease, mosquito bites are itchy and unpleasant. Furthermore, excessive itching at the bites can lead to a secondary infection that requires medical attention.

There are several reasons why mosquitoes may have become a problem in your yard. The most common reason is an excess of standing water. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water, where the eggs hatch into larvae and eventually become new biting adults. 

Another reason why mosquitoes may gather in your yard is because of an abundance of vegetation. Mosquitoes like to rest in damp shady areas of overgrown grass, trees, and shrubbery. They also hang out under decks, wood piles, and yard debris. 

The more breeding and resting sites on or near your property, the more problems with mosquitoes you will experience.

In Philadelphia, mosquito populations are highest in the spring, summer, and early fall. Because mosquitoes rely on standing water to provide breeding sites, mosquito populations often increase after periods of rain. 

Places in our yards where rainwater collects and offers breeding sites for mosquitoes to take advantage of include:

• Plant pots and buckets
• Wading pools
• Low lying areas
• Clogged gutters
• Tops of trash cans or tarps
• Pet water bowls
• Bird baths

In addition to professional mosquito control, reducing standing water on your property can go a long way in avoiding issues with mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are outdoor pests that use their wings to move to and from our outdoor spaces as they please. The best way to keep them away from your yard throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons is to partner with a local pest control professional. 

Regular mosquito control services are the best way to control biting mosquitoes continuously and for you and your family to enjoy your backyard whenever you want. If you want to learn more about mosquito control in Philadelphia, please reach out and speak with one of our friendly professionals today. Harpoon Pest Solutions is here to help you maintain a property free of unwanted pests!

Below are some simple mosquito prevention tips that will help you to limit mosquito activity on your property. 

• Keep mosquitoes out of your home by placing intact screens in windows and doors. Never keep your home's windows and doors propped open. 
• Around outdoor sitting or eating areas, plant lemongrass, lavender, and other plants that naturally repel these insects.
• Remove as much standing water from your property as possible. 
• Avoid overwatering your potted plants, gardens, or lawn.
• Store empty containers that can collect water inside or upside down. 

For mosquito and home pest control near you, call Harpoon Pest Solutions today!