Mosquitoes pose many health threats, from the Zika virus to West Nile virus. While the risk of contracting these diseases is relatively rare, these little buzzers annoy victims with their itchy bites wherever they go. The Georgia heat and humidity provide ideal conditions for these pests, making mosquito control a must.
Mosquito Behavior
Understanding mosquitoes’ behavior can help you avoid being bitten. Their most active time of day is around dusk, so avoid going out as it starts to become dark or wear long pants and shirts to cover your legs and arms. Afternoons – the hottest, sunniest time of the day – are their least active biting periods. This is when they seek out wet, cool areas where they’re no longer at risk of dehydration beneath the sun’s rays. If they make their way indoors, beware. There’s nothing slowing them down in the comfortable confines of your temperature-controlled, shaded home.
Mosquito Season
Many species of mosquitoes hibernate or incubate as eggs when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. As other species die off, eggs hatch and a last burst of activity occurs before swarms disappear for the colder months. The first frost usually signals their disappearance, but a warm spell can bring them out of hiding; 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher brings the most activity. In Georgia, mosquito season usually starts early to mid-March depending on the weather.
Mosquito Magnets
The female mosquito is the only one that bites and is attracted to the carbon dioxide in our breath. It needs our blood – or more specifically, the protein in our blood – to lay her eggs. While we all know the biting insect with this one uncontrollable element, we have some control over a few of these other odors that draw certain species of the biting insects:
- Sweat
- Certain foods
- Body odor
- Some fragrances/perfumes
As we mentioned, mosquitoes are also drawn to water. Reducing standing water on your property is an excellent form of mosquito control, so eliminate as many water-accumulating areas as possible. Some of these areas include:
- Birdbaths
- Clogged gutters
- Landscaping water features
- Tires, trash, and other water-collecting debris
Controlling Mosquitoes
Knowing when mosquitoes are active is the first step in limiting their presence. From staying inside during their busiest times to reducing opportunities for water to accumulate, there are plenty of preventive mosquito control measures you can take. If already you have an infestation, contact the Georgia pest control pros at Bug Out.
