Mosquitoes

What are mosquitoes? 

The mosquito is a type of fly. Female mosquitoes require blood meals to create their eggs and are responsible for delivering the itchy bites that drive us crazy. Mosquitoes are most active in the summer and fall when the hot, humid weather provides them with the food and water they need to complete their life cycle.

While females have blood meals, the primary food source for both male and female mosquitoes is plant nectar. In order to feed, mosquitoes use their elongated, piercing mouthpart, which is called a proboscis.

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

When someone begins to talk about a dangerous animal, your mind immediately goes to large predators like tigers, sharks, or bears. But the truth is, the tiny, easily squished mosquito is one of the world's most dangerous animals. Mosquitoes infect over 700 million people each year with diseases and cause more than one million deaths. The spread of malaria by mosquitoes in tropical and third-world countries is a serious concern.

Mosquitoes feed on a variety of hosts, and can pass along a whole host of disease-causing pathogens. In our area, mosquitoes are responsible for spreading the West Nile virus and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE).

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

Mosquitoes can become a problem on any property that provides them with their basic food and water needs. They gravitate to properties near areas of standing water where the females can lay their eggs. Lots of vegetation and tall grass also attract mosquitoes because they rest in these areas during the middle of the day.

When mosquitoes are living in large numbers on our properties, they reduce our ability to enjoy our outdoor spaces. No one wants to be outside being repeatedly attacked by mosquitoes.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes gather around any source of stagnant water. Marshes, swamps, heavily wooded areas, lakes, and ponds tend to have large populations of mosquitoes living there. Our yards attract mosquitoes because they are prone to having areas of standing water. Tree stumps, tree hollows, low-lying areas, trash cans, flower pots, old tires, and clogged gutters are things found in lots of our yards that collect water and act as breeding sites for mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn; they like to rest to escape the heat and direct sun during the middle of the day.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

Partner with the mosquito control experts at Master Mosquito Control. We provide the treatments necessary to reduce mosquito populations on your southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts properties. We offer recurring services to keep your property free of mosquitoes throughout the entire mosquito season or a one-time service to rid your yard of mosquitoes before hosting a special event.

Through personalized services, a deep knowledge of the local areas we serve, and effective mosquito control methods, we will help you take back your yard from biting mosquitoes. To learn more about our synthetic or natural mosquito control options, reach out to Master Mosquito Control today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

Prevent mosquitoes with the help of the professionals at Master Mosquito Control and our useful prevention tips:

• Always keep lids on trash cans and turn over containers you aren't using to stop them from collecting rainwater.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear to stop them from collecting debris and allowing rainwater to pool around your home's perimeter.
• Fill in low-lying areas on your property.
• Maintain your yards to prevent overgrown vegetation from attracting mosquitoes that are looking for a resting spot.
• If you own a pool, ornamental pond, or other water fixture, make sure to adequately treat the water and make sure it's always circulating.
• Place screens in open windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

Helpful Articles

What Happens To Mosquitoes During The Winter In North Reading?