How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes don’t just bite; they suck! It’s no secret that mosquito bites are quite itchy and irritating, but it’s not just the itch you need to worry about. Diseases caused by mosquitoes can make you, your family, and your pets extremely sick. Read on about how to get rid of mosquitoes this summer.

There are over 3,500 different species of mosquitoes across the world, with 175 of them found in the United States. Of these 175 species, there are typically 3 types of mosquitoes in Atlanta that homeowners and business owners need mosquito treatment for.

Mosquito Control in Atlanta

Mosquitoes love warm temperatures and moisture. Atlanta’s warm climate combined with wet summers make Atlanta a perfect location for mosquito infestations. Mosquitoes pose many risks to Atlanta residents, including transmitting diseases to us, our loved ones, and our pets. This is why mosquito treatment for your yard is extremely important.

When is Mosquito Season in Atlanta?

In Atlanta, Georgia, mosquito activity can last into October.

 Did you know.. Mosquitoes can breed in standing water the size of a bottle cap!

The 3 Types of Mosquitoes in Atlanta

In Atlanta, there are 3 types of mosquitoes to look out for. We call them “the Big Three”.

Who are the Big Three?

• Culex aka House Mosquito
• Asian Tiger
• Anopheles

1. Culex aka House Mosquito

• This is a common type of mosquito that is popular throughout the United States. They are attracted to body heat and the carbon dioxide we exhale. It’s important to note that only female mosquitoes feed off human blood. The male mosquito feeds off plant nectars.
• When are they active? The Culex mosquito is most common during the later evening and nighttime hours. However, they still pose a threat to people outside during the evening.

2. Asian Tiger Mosquito, aka the Aedes Mosquito

• The Asian Tiger mosquito is fierce like its name. This species of mosquito is exclusive to the South, which makes Atlanta at high risk. These mosquitoes are mainly found in forests and areas with tall grass.
• When are they active? The Asian Tiger mosquito is most active during daylight hours, but they will also feed at dusk and dawn.

3. Anopheles

• The Anopheles mosquito carries malaria—but in Africa only. While malaria has been eradicated in Georgia, the Anopheles mosquito can still transmit heartworms to dogs and livestock.
• When are they active? The Anopheles mosquito is most active in the early morning and late evening.

How to get rid of mosquitoes in your yard:

1. Remove all sources of standing water

First, eliminate any standing water. Mosquitoes go through four stages in their life cycle: egg, larvae, pupa and adult. The first three stages of a mosquito’s life occur in water. Without water, mosquitoes are unable to reproduce. After a mosquito bites a human, it searches for water to lay eggs.

Bird baths or larger yard items are common areas of standing water, but it’s important to look for slow or standing water on small things, as well.

To prevent mosquitoes, remove the following sources of standing water from

Small and Large items, such as:
-Kids’ toys
-Dog/cat outdoor water bowls
-Garden supplies
-Top of grill cover
-Garbage can top
-The “saucer” under potted plants
-Bird baths
-Wading Pools
-Rain Barrels
-Old Tires
-Rain Gutters

2. Trim shrubs, and keep your lawn mowed

Mosquitoes like to hang out in cooler, damp places during the heat of the day.  This is why mosquitoes tend to be hanging out near the bottom of tall shrubs, grass, and vegetation. Mosquitoes feast on plant nectar when they aren’t pillaging for blood, so they are often found in the heavy vegetation near your home. Be sure to trim back your shrubs, and keep your lawn regularly mowed to prevent these pests from having a place to hang out around your home.

3. Clear away yard debris

Get rid of any areas where debris collects in the yard, such as grass clippings and piles of leaves. Remove twigs, leaves, and branches that have piled up in the corner of your yard or against the fence. Debris needs to be removed so that it does not become a point source for mosquito breeding.

Call us for a free inspection for mosquitoes today at 678-888-0035!

It’s important to get mosquito treatment for your yard to prevent mosquitoes from hurting you, your family, and your pets. Contact the pest control experts at Lookout Pest Control today to get mosquito treatment services for your home or business. Call us at today for mosquito yard treatment, or contact us online!