The State of Mississippi has consistently ranked among the top five U.S. states with the highest levels of humidity and the most annual inches of rainfall. The excessive moisture level appeals to mosquitoes, which have consistently been a public health risk across the country. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in pools of standing water, where they develop through stages as larvae and pupae before maturing.
The state’s health department estimates that Mississippi has approximately 50 different species of mosquitoes. The term mosquito originated from the Spanish or Portuguese word used for describing “little flies.” Belonging to the order Diptera, mosquitoes have wings with a “scaly” appearance and antennae that allows for detecting heat and carbon dioxide that humans generate.
Do mosquitoes bite or sting? Female mosquitoes use a mouthpart called a proboscis for piercing the skin of a human or animal and extracting blood. Female mosquitoes require blood to acquire sufficient proteins needed for producing eggs. Male mosquitoes predominately consume nectar and similar plant-based liquids.
Property owners struggling with excessive numbers of mosquitoes may contact a professional for assistance. An experienced Baldwyn pest control professional knows how to eliminate mosquitoes and how to keep mosquitoes out of your yard area.
The Role Mosquitoes Play In Our Ecosystem
What is the purpose of mosquitoes in the realm of nature? While mosquitoes represent a troublesome pest among individuals participating in outdoor activities during the warmest months of the year, they play an important role in nature as a food source. For example, creatures such as frogs, lizards, spiders, and birds consume mosquitoes in some regions. Further, many types of fish rely on mosquito larvae for survival.
Why Mosquitoes Are Considered So Dangerous
The majority of those bitten by a mosquito will experience a mild reaction as red, irritated, and itchy skin. Mosquitoes can also potentially transmit a host of diseases as they travel among humans and animals, including the West Nile virus, forms of encephalitis, malaria, and other significant health concerns.
Six Eco-Friendly And Effective Mosquito Prevention Tips
As outdoor pests that exist in large numbers, eliminating 100% of the mosquito population in a region is unlikely, but several best practices have demonstrated some preventative benefits, including:
- Remove any unnecessary objects and clutter from yard areas that hold water, such as kiddie pools, old tires, tarps, and flower pots.
- Prevent puddles of water from accumulating in the ground by filling holes and leveling out surfaces.
- Remove birdbaths or regularly change the water, which might contain mosquito eggs.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear so that rainwater properly moves away from the structure.
- Apply a product containing permethrin to outerwear and gear when hiking, camping, etc.
- A properly positioned fan capable of generating airflow will likely discourage mosquitoes by disrupting their flight path.
Keep in mind the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) compiles and maintains a list of mosquito repellants that are effective and safe for the ecosystem. Wearing full-length shirts and pants also will limit the area of exposed skin.
The Most Effective Mosquito Control Solution For Baldwyn Homes
The experts with McCary Pest Control will deploy a comprehensive strategy for safely and efficiently limiting the population of mosquitoes. A spray formula will kill adult mosquitoes when applied throughout trees, shrubs, and other areas of vegetation. Dissolvable tablets placed in areas of standing water will impede mosquito egg development. Our technicians also offer one-time mosquito treatment options for those hosting outdoor events.
In addition to mosquitoes, our specialists are well-trained in ousting rodents, ants, and many other harmful pests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.