Pest Showcase Series: Mosquitos

Mosquitoes: no matter how hard you look, it’s hard to find someone who has a good word to say about them. The bloodsuckers are not only an annoying nuisance, they are also a carrier of many deadly diseases,  like malaria, the West Nile virus, and the Zika virus.

But here at Killo Exterminating Co Inc, we believe that forewarned is forearmed, which is why we decided to dedicate this month’s blog post to everyone’s least favorite insect. Read on to learn where mosquitoes go in the winter, why only some people get bitten, and how to prevent mosquitoes from making a home in your yard.

So where do mosquitoes go in the winter?

Mosquitoes are cold-blooded animals, which means they can’t be active in temperatures lower than 50F. Of course, that’s cold comfort to us here in the Charlotte, NC area, since our average highs stay above that for much of the year. Still, the dead winter months can be very uncomfortable for mosquitoes. Some species will go into hibernation, but others die off, leaving behind eggs that will hatch in the spring.

Why are only some people bitten by mosquitoes?

According to lab studies, about 20% of people are “lucky” enough to be mosquito magnets. While scientists aren’t quite sure why this is, there are some theories out there. Some think the answer may be related to blood type; people with Type O blood are twice as likely to get bitten as those with Type A. Others think that mosquitoes may be attracted by skin bacteria or other chemicals present on the skin, like uric and lactic acid. Metabolism, size, and even shirt color may also play a role in how attracted mosquitoes are to certain people.

How can I keep mosquitoes out of my yard?

There are many ways you can prevent your home from becoming mosquito central. The first thing to do is to eliminate sources of standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water as little as ½ an inch deep, so make sure you take care of any puddles, birdbaths, flowerpots, tire swings, and other items that can hold standing water. Unclog your gutters and make sure leaky faucets and pipes are repaired. Finally, don’t be afraid to slather on insect repellent. Find one that contains 20% DEET, oil of eucalyptus, or picaridin.

Can Killo Exterminating Co Inc help me with mosquito control?

We certainly can! As part of a comprehensive pest control program, our exterminators can come to your property and fully treat it for mosquitoes. We have several treatment options, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. We’ll help you find the right mosquito control for your property.

Mosquito season in North Carolina starts as early as March, so don’t wait. Let this year be the one you keep the bugs at bay.

Call us today to learn more about your mosquito control options!