Mosquitoes are parasites that require a host to feed on and reproduce. Most people know how they leave itchy bites, but many don't know how dangerous they can be. There are two common mosquito species in the Frisco, Texas area. These species include:
- Aides Aegypti Mosquitoes: Dark brown to black abdomen
- White scales on the thorax that form a violin-like pattern
- The tarsal segment on the hind legs has white bands, which give a striped appearance
- Can survive several months without water
- Thrive in urban areas
- Asian Tiger Mosquitoes: Black and white "tiger-striped" pattern on their body
- A white stripe running down the middle of their head
- White banding on their legs
- Daytime bites and can move quickly
- Aggressive nature
To better understand this pest around your Frisco home, you should know the truth behind these common mosquito myths.
Myth: All Mosquitoes Bite
Fact: Only female mosquitoes bite because they require proteins found in blood to reproduce. While male mosquitoes and females sustain on sweet liquids such as nectar. Many species of mosquitoes don't bite humans.
To keep yourself protected against mosquitos, it is safe to assume all mosquitoes will bite you since you will be unable to distinguish males from females with the naked eye.
Myth: Fair Skin People Are More Susceptible To Mosquito Bites
Fact: People with fair skin tend to have a more prominent reaction making it seem like they get bitten more, but this is not true. However, some factors do attract mosquitoes to certain people. These factors include:
- O-type blood
- Carbon dioxide
- Sweat
- Pregnancy
- Beer consumption
- Wearing dark-colored clothing
To help avoid mosquitoes when outside, you should wear light-colored clothing, shower before going out if you have been sweating, and avoid drinking alcohol, especially beer, when outdoors.
Myth: All Mosquitoes Carry Diseases
Fact: Only a small percentage of mosquitoes harbor dangerous diseases. However, there is no way to know what mosquitoes are carrying diseases, so it is best to steer clear of all. Diseases that mosquitoes are known to carry include:
- West Nile Virus
- Malaria
- Dengue
- Zika Virus
- Chikungunya
To reduce the possibility of being exposed to one of these mosquito-transmitted diseases, you should reduce populations on your property and take the proper precautions when outside.
Myth: Bats Are An Effective Way To Control Mosquitoes
Fact: Although bats do eat mosquitoes, these insects only make up a small percentage of a bat's diet. They prefer beetles, cicadas, and moths. So even though natural predators like bats, birds, and spiders can help with mosquito control, they won't reduce populations in your yard on their own.
To effectively remove mosquitoes from your property, you need to take ongoing preventative measures.
Myth: You Can Get Rid of Mosquitoes On Your Own
We are all guilty of spending a lot of money on mosquito preventatives such as sprays, citronella candles, and torches. But the truth is, these products are only putting a bandage on a much larger problem.
Fact: The best way to keep mosquito populations on your property down is with assistance from mosquito experts. If you are in Frisco, Texas, you should contact the professionals at All-Safe Pest & Termite. Our mosquito control options include backpack misting and the In2Care System. The In2Care system is a trap used on a seasonal basis to attract adult mosquitoes and target both adults and larvae.
Our mosquito control procedure ensures complete treatment of your property. We will also instruct you to minimize conducive conditions such as moisture issues and excessive foliage that are making your property more appealing to mosquitoes. So, don't let mosquitoes keep you inside; instead, call us at All-Safe Pest & Termite for assistance with this frustrating pest.