The Top 7 Ways to Fight Summer Mosquitoes in Alabama
In Alabama mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance. Over the last few years there have been human cases of West Nile in Morgan and Pickens County. Mosquitoes are the carriers of this potentially fatal virus. Last year the mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus was found in Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa County and Colbert County. Mosquitoes also pose a threat to pets because they can give a dog or cat heartworms.
Getting mosquitoes under control this summer is the top priority for many of our customers that call us for pest control in Alabama. The state is a breeding ground for approximately 60 different mosquito species. Because it can take less than a week for some mosquitoes to go from egg to adult, management has to address the pest at all life cycles. Even if you haven’t seen mosquitoes yet they could soon be a problem if overwintering eggs haven’t hatched.
Use the tips below to keep mosquitoes from ruining the summer fun outside.
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes need standing water or moist soil to lay their eggs, which is why mosquito activity is typically higher around lakes, ditches, etc. It doesn’t take much moisture to attract mosquitoes. Even a single flowerpot that has been overwatered is enough for them to lay eggs. Regularly check your yard for areas where water is pooling. Fountains, ponds and swimming pools are okay as long as you have a pump that is constantly circulating the water. You can also put mosquito-eating fish like Gambusia in your pond. Birdbaths and pot saucers should be removed since they common places for mosquito activity.
Put Mosquito Repelling Plants in Your Garden
There are a number of plants that mosquitoes just don’t want to be around. Planting a few of them in strategic areas, like around a pond, can help to control mosquitoes. A few to try include citronella, stone root, lime basil and lemon balm. You can also use plants that attract mosquito-eating insects like dragonflies.
Keep Fans Blowing
The moving air makes it difficult for mosquitoes to fly and land on a surface. If you don’t have fixed overhead fans installed use standing fans to keep outdoor areas comfortable and mosquito-free.
Wear the Right Protective Clothing
Covering up when you’re outside is the best way to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. You can go a step further than just wearing regular long sleeve shirts and pants. The CDC suggests that people wear clothing that’s been treated with permethrin, a synthetic insecticide specifically for disease-carrying pests.
Avoid Going Outside During Times of Peak Activity
You can also avoid being bitten by scheduling outdoor activities when mosquitoes are less active. Typically mosquitoes come out in full force during the late afternoon and dusk.
Use Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus for Natural Protection
If you don’t want to use DEET mosquito repellent, health officials suggest that you use oil of lemon eucalyptus. It has the potency of low-concentrate DEET and is safe to use on anyone 3 years old or older.
Customized Mosquito Control Treatments
One of the most effective ways of controlling the mosquito population around your home is with professional pest control. At Vulcan Termite & Pest Control Inc. we offer treatments that are specially formulated to exterminate mosquitoes. Focus is on identifying and eliminating trouble spots where mosquitoes can breed in order to break the cycle that keeps mosquitoes present during the summer.
Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/home-pest-control/the-top-7-ways-to-fight-summer-mosquitoes-in-alabama/