Mosquitoes

What Are Mosquitoes?

One of the most common summer pests in New York, mosquitoes are actually a part of the family of flies and are noted for having the ability to develop from egg to adult within 14 days. Interestingly enough, female mosquitoes are the ones responsible for biting people. That’s because they require a blood meal in order to breed. Male mosquitoes have no need for blood and instead feed on nectar.

Things You Should Know:

• Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.
• Only female mosquitoes bite.
• Mosquitoes can spread a number of dangerous diseases.
• Mosquitoes only need half an inch of water to breed in.

Why Are They In My House?

While mosquitoes may access your home through ripped or torn screens or other openings, they are more likely to be a pest outside of the home. If you have standing water present on your property, tall or overgrown grass or if you are located in an area that attracts mosquito activity, then you are likely to have a mosquito problem.  Female mosquitoes require a small amount of water in order to lay eggs. Water that has accumulated in gutters, flower pots, buckets, bird baths and kiddie pools, as well as other items commonly found in the yard, could be attracting mosquitoes.

Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?

Mosquitoes are considered dangerous because they have the ability to spread many diseases to people. Diseases that mosquitoes are known to spread include but are not limited to: the West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, malaria, and the Zika virus. For more information about the Zika virus in the state of New York, visit the Zika virus web page of the New York State Department of Health. For information regarding the Zika virus in the United States, visit the Zika virus section web pages on the Center for Disease Control & Prevention's (CDC) website. Mosquito bites are also an unfortunate side effect of having an active mosquito population on your property and may leave an itchy, red welt on the skin. 

What Does It Take To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes?

Getting rid of mosquitoes is nearly impossible due to the nature of the pest. However, you can eliminate the conditions that attract them to your property including removing any standing or stagnant water and keeping your lawn trimmed. For help with mosquito control, you can also contact Parkway Pest Services. We offer mosquito control services for Long Island and our entire service area that are designed to reduce mosquito activity on your property.

How Can I Prevent A Future Infestation?

Preventing mosquitoes can be nearly impossible given their breeding cycle and the fact that they will travel several miles in order to find a blood meal. If you are tired of mosquito bites covering you and your family members, contact us today to find out how we can help!

Helpful Articles About Mosquitoes

• The Zika Virus and Mosquitoes in NY
• Things Everyone Can Do To Limit Mosquito Exposure
• What Attracts Mosquitoes?