Mosquitoes

Habits

Mosquitoes can breed in any form of stagnant water, including ponds, flood waters, marshes, drainage ditches, woodland pools and artificial containers. They regularly feed on nectar, but females require at least one blood meal before they are able to lay fertile eggs. Mosquitoes bite most often at dawn and dusk, but there are some that bite people during the daytime as well.

Threats

Mosquitoes can transfer numerous diseases including the Zika virus, West Nile virus, yellow fever, malaria, encephalitis and dengue fever. The bites can create raised itchy bumps on people, causing them to be scratched. If they are scratched enough, the skin can be broken further and become infected.

Prevention

Eliminate areas of standing water around your property. Mosquitoes only need a half inch of water to breed. Screen all windows and doors, repairing even the smallest hole or tear. Minimize activity outside during dusk and dawn, as that is when mosquitoes are most active.

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