There’s no denying it; mosquitoes are some of the most obnoxious pests that we face here in Plano. They bite, buzz nonstop, and swarm in large numbers. But did you know that mosquitoes are far more than just annoying? They are some of the most dangerous animals on the planet. You need to know the preventative steps you can take to keep the mosquito population around your Plano property to an absolute minimum. Furthermore, you need to know the effective mosquito control options that you can count on should your property become overrun with these annoying, and dangerous, pests.
Mosquito Basics
Mosquitoes are fly-like insects with six long, slender legs; small bodies; and tube-like mouthparts for feeding. Mosquito means “little fly.” As for feeding, it is only the female mosquitoes that bite and feed on blood. This is because they require a certain enzyme found in blood to produce viable eggs. Male mosquitoes, instead, feed on plant nectars and other sweet substances. In addition to blood, female mosquitoes also need standing water to lay their eggs on. There are around 3,500 species of mosquitoes in the world. However, we only need to worry about a few of them here in Plano.
Mosquitoes – One Of The Most Dangerous Animals on Earth
Despite their small size, mosquitoes are considered to be one of the most dangerous animals on the planet. This is because mosquito-borne illnesses account for a large percentage of animal-related deaths. Because female mosquitoes need to feed on blood, they can transmit all sorts of bloodborne diseases from person to person. Although this is more prevalent in developing countries, they have been known to transmit harmful illnesses here in the United States, as well. Some diseases that mosquitoes have been known to spread include malaria, dengue, yellow fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and various types of encephalitis.
Factors That Attract Mosquitoes To Properties & How To Limit Them
Several factors might attract mosquitoes to your Plano property. For starters, because females need standing water to lay eggs, any area of standing water on your property could quite literally turn into a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Furthermore, dense vegetation and unkempt lawns are also attractive to mosquitoes.
- To keep the mosquito population around your property to a minimum, you should:
- Fill in any low-lying areas or holes in your yard that could collect water.
- Store lids and other containers upside down so as not to collect rainwater.
- Make sure your gutters are free of debris and drain spouts are working properly.
- Keep your lawn well-maintained.
- Remove any dense vegetation from your yard and keep all bushes trimmed back.
In addition to these prevention methods, there are some other precautions you can take to limit your exposure to mosquitoes such as:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when venturing into mosquito-populated areas.
- Stay indoors at dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Avoid going outside after drinking alcohol or while wearing dark colors as both are attractive to mosquitoes.
Effective Mosquito Prevention For Your Plano Property
If you have any further questions regarding mosquito prevention for you or your property, or if you require assistance in dealing with the mosquitoes around your Plano home, don’t hesitate to contact the pest professionals here at All-Safe Pest & Termite.
Here at All-Safe Pest & Termite, we offer quality pest control solutions that you can count on to effectively eliminate any infestation with which you are dealing. Furthermore, we also offer ongoing protection plans that ensure your property and home remain pest-free all year long. Don’t let mosquitoes keep you from enjoying your yard. Give us a call today to get started.