Believe it or not, some of the most dangerous creatures on the planet are also the most annoying: mosquitoes. (Learn more in the Rose Pest Solutions Pest Library!) Home mosquito control goes beyond just citronella candles, sprays, and wearables. Simply killing mosquitoes only addresses part of the problem. It’s important to take a more comprehensive approach to protect your home and family.
What’s Wrong With Mosquitoes:
- Zika. West Nile virus. Malaria. Dengue. Mosquitoes carry viruses, diseases and parasites that can pose serious health issues and can even be fatal.
- Then there’s all the scratching, itchiness, redness and general soreness that happens after the bite.
- Their breeding grounds are very small—think 1/2” of standing water under a leaky faucet, on top of a grill cover or under your car.
- Mosquitoes find shelter in the shade on the west side of buildings to hide from the rising sun.
- There are multiple mosquito species that are active throughout the day.
- The mosquito season gets longer based on more water, higher humidity and higher temperatures. Does this sound like the current Chicagoland summer to anyone else?
How to Manage Mosquitoes:
The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has compiled helpful information on how to manage mosquito breeding grounds, choose the most effective repellents, and apply them correctly. The infographic above highlights common areas where mosquitoes tend to breed in and around your yard, so be sure to tackle these potential problem spots first.
Mosquitoes are an unavoidable part of life during warmer months, so it’s essential to protect yourself with a repellent. Make sure to check the label for the right concentration of DEET, Picardin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 to ensure it meets the recommended standards for effectiveness.
