Mosquitoes

What are mosquitoes?

Delivering itchy, irritating bites, mosquitoes are an insect that can keep people inside when they should be outside enjoying the warm weather. 

These fly-like insects have a slender body, six long narrow legs, and hairy wings. They have a thin extended mouthpart they use for feeding. Plant nectar and plant sugars are the main food source for both male and female mosquitoes.

Females bite and feed on the blood of warm-blood animals, including people, to get the protein they need to create viable eggs. Males do not have blood meals.

Mosquitoes are eco-important as they are a food source for many species of animals, including birds, bats, and frogs. 

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Mosquitoes are considered one of the most dangerous animals in the world.  That's because they spread many diseases including Malaria, and yellow fever.  Here in Virginia, the most common mosquito-borne illnesses residents may face include West Nile virus, Eastern Equine encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis and St. Louis encephalitis.    

Mosquitoes may also infect dogs with parasitic heartworm, which can be potentially life-threatening. 

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

In order to breed, female mosquitoes require standing water. That's where they lay their eggs.  Properties that have standing water issues are far more likely to have greater mosquito activity.  Heavily wooded areas, stagnant water ditches, clogged gutters, containers, wheel barrows, and even kiddie pools are all common places to find mosquitoes breeding.  Properties that have ponds and marshes on them or nearby are also susceptible to mosquito activity.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes live and breed outside. Yards, parks, sports fields, lakes, and wooded areas are familiar places where people come into contact with mosquitoes.

Most species of mosquitoes tend to be most active during dusk or dawn when the weather cools. During the heat of the day, mosquitoes are less active and hide in tall grasses, under shrubs, behind tree bark, and under decks.

Though mosquitoes are most abundant outside, they do sometimes find their way into homes through torn screens and gaps around windows and doors. 

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

When it comes to dealing with mosquitoes, the best way to treat for these biting pests is with the help of a pest control company that specializes in mosquito control.  At Star City Pest Control & Wildlife Services, we offer effective mosquito treatments that are designed to target mosquitoes where they breed and where they rest.  

When you partner with our locally owned Roanoke pest control company, our team will work diligently to get rid of mosquitoes that are keeping your family inside when they should be out! Call us today or schedule your free pest inspection today! We can provide mosquito remediation for your business or home!

How can I prevent mosquito activity?

To reduce the mosquito population on your property and mosquito bites on your family, Star City Pest Control & Wildlife Services recommends implementing the following mosquito prevention tips:

• Repair ripped window and door screens.
• Place weatherstripping around windows and doors. 
• Store containers (buckets, wading pools, flower pots, wheelbarrows) that collect water upside down when not in use.
• Fix low-lying areas on your property that allow water to pool.
• Maintain gutters and downspouts to keep water flowing properly.
• Keep grass cut short.
• Remove tree stumps.
• Trim back overgrown bushes, shrubs, and trees. 
• To avoid mosquito bites wear a mosquito repellent.
• Stay inside when mosquitoes are most active—dusk and dawn.