South Florida Mosquito Control: Tips For Your Yard
In Florida, it can be difficult to avoid mosquitoes as our tropical climate is the perfect place for them to breed and inhabit. These pests are known to take over yards, becoming a nuisance to your outdoor fun. In order to establish mosquito control around your home, it’s important to understand what these pests are attracted to and how you can reduce their activity for a buzz-free environment!
Standing Water
Female mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to start the process of breeding. Once mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, they develop into larvae and will float just above the water’s surface. It only takes around five days got the larvae to swim, and within 48 to 72 hours, the pupa will grow wings and become an adult mosquito. It’s essential to remove any standing water and items that can hold water from your yard including pots, tarps, toys, old tires, and pet bowls.
Yard Debris
Mosquitoes look for places to hide, especially during hot and humid days. These pests will often hide in thick foliage, plants, tall grass, and damp woodpiles in our yard. To keep them from invading your yard, keep your grass and shrubs short, mowing often, and cutting shrubs back regularly. It’s also essential to store wood in containers with lids, placing it at least 20 feet from your home.
Your Odor
Did you know that mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide and body heat that our bodies emit? These pests will smell our odor and will target us for their next blood meal. If you’re spending time outdoors, consider placing outdoor fans to help redirect and dissipate the carbon dioxide and body heat. Likewise, when outdoors, consider wearing light-colored clothing, avoiding perfume, and trying to stay cool with a cold compress or water.
If you’ve noticed that the mosquito activity around your home has increased, consider reaching out to our Punta Gorda pest control company for some extra help. These professionals can provide you with a mosquito control and prevention plan for peak mosquito season.