There are many reasons why people want to keep the mosquitoes away from their loved ones and pets, ranging from deadly transmitted diseases such as malaria or heart worms in your pets to just plain annoyances when you spend time outside with your friends and family. In many cases, we are our own worst enemy when it comes to mosquito control. We, unknowingly, create ideal habitats for them to reproduce around our residences. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as a cap full of water and emerge as adults in 7 days. So as a rule of thumb, anything holding water for more than 7 days should be treated or removed. Here are a few tips to help stay ahead of mosquito population growth to make your yard a less ideal breeding ground and prevent mosquitoes from camping out on your property:
Keep your grass cut
Mosquitoes rest and hide out in tall grasses and shrubs. A well maintained lawn gives mosquitoes fewer places to hide from the sun while waiting for a snack to come along.
Remove/change standing water
Small puddles and stagnant water are ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Even the smallest puddles that hang around a few days can allow them enough time to reproduce. Anything holding water should be removed. If it can’t be removed (dog bowls, bird baths), the water should be changed out every couple of days. If it can’t be changed out, the water needs to be treated with larvicide.
Keep gutters clean
Gutters can get clogged with leaves and debris, holding water for an extended period of time.
Check tree holes
Tree holes can possibly hold water. These should be treated or filled in.
Remove old tires
Tires create an ideal habitat for mosquitoes. They keep them warm while providing shade and standing water for them to reproduce.
Check boat covers/tarps
These could get loose over time so its a good idea to check them occasionally for standing water.
If none of these things are a problem in your yard and you still have mosquitoes, it may be time to call a mosquito control professional.
