“FUN” (?) Facts about Mosquitoes

Although we have lived with mosquitoes our entire lives, how much do we really know about them? The following are some interesting facts about our pesky pests, according to the American Mosquito Control Association:

• Mosquitos are responsible for more human deaths than any other living creature, accounting for more than a million deaths worldwide. In the US, mosquitos cause West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis  and even heartworm in dogs. Plus, the ever growing threat of Zika remains in the news (not to mention a few cases each year of Malaria and Dengue Fever).
  
  
• In the Northeast, there are 167 different types of mosquitoes. And in Massachusetts we have about 17 variations, the most common being the ___________________________ which is responsible for carrying the _______________  disease.  
  
  
• Females are the most annoying of mosquitoes. They need blood to lay their eggs (using the blood protein).  And they also feed on glucose found in plants. That’s why we spray thoroughly around foliage.
  
  
• Mosquitoes develop from egg to adult in 4-7 days. Adults live for 4 to 8 weeks. And they don’t travel far, mostly staying within a 1-2 miles circle of where they were born.
  
  
• One mosquito can be responsible for one billion offspring in one month! 
  

• To lessen that possibility, remove all standing water from your property. Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs…even just a teaspoonful is fertile breeding ground. So any marshy land or unattended bird baths are a welcome mat for the mosquito. Be diligent in maintaining your property. 
  
  
• Carbon Dioxide attracts mosquitoes from as far away as 35 feet. 
  
  
• Dark clothing attracts them more than light colored clothing.
  
  
• “Mind your P’s & Q’s”: People drinking beer attract mosquitoes greater than not.
  
  
• Women are usually more attractive to mosquitoes than men because of the difference in hormones produced by the sexes.
  
  
• Blondes tend to be more attractive to mosquitos than brunettes.
  
  
• Smelly feet are attractive to mosquitos as is Limburger Cheese.
  
  
• DON’T MOVE!  Movement increased mosquito biting up to 50% in some research tests.
  
  
• A full moon increased mosquito activity 500% in one study
  
  
• West Nile Virus has symptoms similar to the flu: headache, fatigue, aches or possibly a rash. It can last up to several weeks. WNV is transmitted via mosquitoes between birds, mammals and humans.  Of the 30,491 cases reported to the CDC in 2010, 12,650 resulted in meningitis and encephalitis with 1196 being fatal. Just the tip of the iceberg, though, as the CDC estimates that 1.5 million are infected each year, but most go unreported. 
  
  
• Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and can also affect cats too. In either case it can be deadly for your pet.
  
  
• , Eastern Equine Encephalitis can affect the central nervous system and can cause severe complications and even death. Survivors can be left brain damaged.

These last few points weren’t fun at all! And it needs to be emphasized just how important it is for you to be aware of your surroundings and have a professional, like Master Mosquito Control, develop a season-long plan to protect your yard and your family.  Call us today! 888-321-4486