After more than 30 years in the pest control industry, the team at ELDER Pest Control has answered countless questions about mosquitoes from homeowners across the state.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about mosquitoes and what you should know to protect your family and property.
Why Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Me?
Many people feel like mosquitoes target them more than others, and there is some truth to that. Mosquitoes are attracted to a combination of factors, including:
- Carbon dioxide you exhale
- Body heat
- Sweat and body odor
- Certain skin bacteria
- Dark-colored clothing
While you cannot control all of these factors, wearing light-colored clothing and using insect repellent can help reduce mosquito bites when spending time outdoors.
Where Do Mosquitoes Breed?
Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. Even small amounts of water can become breeding sites. Common mosquito breeding areas around homes include:
- Bird baths
- Clogged gutters
- Kiddie pools
- Plant saucers
- Buckets and containers
- Tarps that collect rainwater
- Low spots in the yard
A female mosquito can lay hundreds of eggs at a time, which is why eliminating standing water is one of the most effective ways to reduce mosquito populations around your property.
How Far Can Mosquitoes Travel?
Most mosquitoes do not travel very far from where they hatch. Many species remain within a few hundred feet of their breeding site. However, some mosquitoes can travel several miles in search of food or suitable breeding conditions.
This means that while reducing standing water on your property is important, mosquitoes from neighboring properties can still find their way into your yard.
Why Are Mosquitoes Worse at Certain Times of Day?
Mosquito activity depends on the species, but many of the mosquitoes found in New Jersey are most active during dawn and dusk. These cooler periods allow mosquitoes to conserve moisture and avoid the heat of the day.
If you notice increased mosquito activity during early morning or evening hours, that is completely normal. Planning outdoor activities during the middle of the day may help reduce encounters with mosquitoes.
Do Mosquitoes Only Bite Humans?
No. Mosquitoes feed on a variety of hosts, including:
- Humans
- Dogs
- Cats
- Birds
- Deer
- Other mammals
Only female mosquitoes bite because they need the protein found in blood to produce eggs. Male mosquitoes survive on nectar and plant juices.
Can Mosquitoes Spread Diseases?
Yes. Mosquitoes are capable of transmitting several diseases to both humans and animals. While the risk varies by location and mosquito species, mosquitoes can carry diseases such as:
- West Nile virus
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- Zika virus
- Dengue fever
- Heartworm disease in dogs
Although many mosquito-borne illnesses are uncommon in New Jersey, reducing mosquito populations around your home is an important step in protecting your family and pets.
What Plants Help Repel Mosquitoes?
Some plants are believed to help discourage mosquitoes due to their natural scents. Popular options include:
- Citronella
- Lavender
- Marigolds
- Basil
- Mint
- Rosemary
While these plants may provide some minor benefits, they are not a substitute for professional mosquito control. Large mosquito populations will not be eliminated simply by planting mosquito-repelling plants.
What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Mosquitoes?
The most effective mosquito control strategy combines several approaches:
Remove Standing Water
Inspect your property regularly and eliminate areas where water collects.
Maintain Your Landscape
Mosquitoes often rest in tall grass, dense shrubs, and shaded vegetation during the day. Keeping your lawn trimmed and landscaping maintained can make your property less attractive to mosquitoes.
Use Personal Protection
Apply EPA-approved insect repellents when spending time outdoors and wear long sleeves when mosquito activity is high.
Professional Mosquito Treatments
For homeowners dealing with persistent mosquito problems, professional mosquito control treatments can provide significant relief. Routine mosquito treatments target adult mosquitoes and their resting areas, helping reduce populations throughout the season.
When Should I Start Mosquito Treatments?
The best time to begin mosquito control is before mosquito populations reach their peak. In South Jersey, mosquito activity often increases during the spring and remains active through the summer and early fall.
Starting treatments early in the season helps reduce mosquito breeding and can provide more consistent protection throughout the months when outdoor activities are most common.
Need Help Controlling Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes can quickly turn a beautiful backyard into an uncomfortable place to spend time. If you’re tired of swatting mosquitoes every time you step outside, you can get a mosquito lawn spray from the pros for less than a dinner for two.
For more than 30 years, ELDER Pest Control has helped South Jersey homeowners reduce mosquito populations and enjoy their outdoor spaces with greater peace of mind. Contact our team today to learn more about our mosquito control services and schedule an inspection.