Mosquitoes are biting insects that feed on the blood of people and animals. Plant nectar and pollen are the mosquito’s main sources of food, while only female mosquitoes consume blood in order get the protein they need to create viable eggs. Adult mosquitoes have slender bodies; long, thin legs; narrow, hairy wings, and extended mouthparts that they use for feeding. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet climates, making spring and summer their most active seasons.

Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on top of standing water. Mosquitoes will happily live in any outdoor space that provides them with plenty of standing water to breed, as well as flowering vegetation to feed on. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. During the day, mosquitoes are found hiding in tall grasses, under trees and bushes, and underneath decks and porches. Mosquitoes feed on a variety of hosts which, unfortunately, allows them to transmit a variety of diseases to people and animals including equine encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Zika virus. They also transmit parasitic heartworms to our pets, which can be harmful or potentially fatal.

Our experts have some tips for preventing mosquitoes from invading your property. Eliminate standing water from your property by storing containers that can collect water upside down when not in use and regularly refilling birdbaths, pet bowls, and wading pools with fresh water. If you own a pool, properly maintain it. Keep your lawn cut short and remove overgrown vegetation from your property. Finally, keep mosquitoes out of your home by making sure window and door screens are intact.