Winter is here and your chances of being bitten by mosquitoes in the frigid weather have almost disappeared. However, it is not because they have died and they don’t migrate to Florida to stay in the warm weather. In Virginia and other areas around the DMV mosquitoes that carry Zika virus, as well as other disease pathogens, are known as the Aedes aegypti. As temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit the adult female mosquitoes are preparing us for when warmer months return.
Adult female mosquitoes take dropping temperatures as a sign to deposit their eggs into water-holding items that contain as little as a half inch of water. These eggs enter diapause, which suspends the egg development while you are layering in wool clothing to stay warm in freezing temperatures.
Items that are likely to hold water and mosquito eggs deposited in the fall may include:
Flower pots
Bird baths
Tire swings
Grill covers
Any items that collect water
As temperatures rise and rainfall picks back up in the spring, mosquito eggs become re-submerged in rainwater where they will later hatch. This is when the aggravating bloodsuckers start the next generation of Aedes aegypti. These recently hatched mosquitoes will quickly be on the hunt for humans that will be their next food source. With Zika being a serious concern, you should know that the offspring is likely to carry Zika.
Now that you know your home could be surrounded by these pesky flying insects you should exercise caution. Follow these steps along with your mosquito-safe habits from the summer to decrease the chances of mosquitoes choosing you for their next meal.
Inspect your property for items that could hold water and mosquito eggs that were likely deposited in the fall.
Unclog gutters, repair any leaky pipes on the outside of the home, make a drain hole in objects that hold water, and keep trash cans tightly sealed.
Consider planting mosquito repelling plants like rosemary, mint, and lavender.
Apply insect repellent when outdoors, especially when in warmer areas, following the directions on the insect repellent label.
American Pest offers a special mosquito and tick program to help control mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests in your home in Virginia. American Pest also offers other residential and commercial services for a variety of pest. Contact us today to learn more!
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