Mosquitoes are flying pests that often irritate people participating in hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities, particularly during the year's warmer months. Estimates now suggest that over 3,500 different species of mosquitoes exist in the world today. Roughly 400 of these species pose substantial human health risks. Historians suggest that the term “mosquito” originated from the Spanish or Portuguese word meaning “little fly.” Traditionally, the British referred to these pests as “gnats.”
Female mosquitoes consume the blood of humans and animals, which provides them with ample protein needed for generating eggs. Male mosquitoes do not bite and primarily consume nectar and similar plant-based liquids. Female mosquitoes have a special mouthpart (proboscis) that allows for piercing the skin and accessing a blood meal. During this process, the skin faces exposure to its saliva, which results in mild or moderate symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and irritation.
Have mosquitoes developed into a major concern throughout your property? After speaking with a Yakima County pest control professional, they will deploy an expert to the property for a thorough inspection of the premises. Licensed professionals maintain knowledge regarding how to eliminate mosquitoes and many of the things that repel mosquitoes.
The Role Mosquitoes Play In Our Ecosystem
Despite having a bothersome reputation, mosquitoes in Yakima County serve some useful purposes in the natural environment. Certain mosquito species assist with pollination, and most types are a primary food source for fish, birds, bats, and other creatures.
Why Mosquitoes Are Considered So Dangerous
Are mosquitoes dangerous creatures? Yes. Mosquitoes are one of the leading public health concerns worldwide as well as at the state and local levels in the U.S. State initiatives and local health department officials often remain active in monitoring the population of mosquitoes, implementing treatment programs, and serving as advocates and educators that keep the public informed about these dangerous pests.
Mosquitoes are vectors of various diseases such as dengue fever, yellow fever, malaria, and many other known health concerns. Mosquito-borne diseases impact nearly one billion people on Earth each year. In some cases, immigrants to the U.S. carry malaria and other dangers.
Removing Factors That Attract Mosquitoes To Your Yard
Female mosquitoes generally place their eggs in pools of standing water, meaning that properties with ponds, lakes, or swampy conditions will likely attract these pests. Some of the most important property conditions to address are:
- Removing buckets, tarps, kiddie pools, and other objects that will hold water from the yard.
- Regularly refresh the water in birdbaths to ensure the removal of any developing eggs.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear to make sure that rainwater flows away from the property.
- Cut the grass regularly and trim any overgrown shrubs, weeds, and other forms of vegetation.
Mosquitoes commonly hide in tall grass or other foliage during the sunny midday hours. Avoid outdoor activities during the hours near dusk and dawn when mosquitoes will likely emerge.
Are mosquitoes attracted to UV light? Many flying pests congregate near light sources after dark, including mosquitoes. Many bug “zapper” products use ultraviolet (UV) light to attract mosquitoes; however, some studies reported contradictory results regarding whether UV lighting is effective.
The Best Mosquito Control Solution For Your Yard
The local experts with Prosite know how to keep mosquitoes out of your yard. Based on the potential health risks that mosquitoes pose, property owners who notice an excessive mosquito population in their yards should speak with a licensed pest control company. Although no treatment option will eliminate 100% of the mosquitoes in outdoor areas, experienced pest controllers will significantly reduce the prevalence of mosquitoes in your yard.
Contact our office today to schedule an onsite property inspection.