How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Texas Yard
Mosquitoes live worldwide. They have a fly-like appearance - slender bodies, long legs, narrow wings that are covered in fine hair, and an extended mouthpart (proboscis) that is used for feeding. Female mosquitoes feed on the blood of both people and animals to get the protein required to create eggs.
Two of the most common species of mosquitoes found living and breeding in Southeast Texas include:
- Asian Tiger Mosquitoes which have a black and white “tiger-striped” pattern on their bodies.
- Southern House Mosquitoes are medium-sized and brown in color. They have a banded lower abdomen.
When are mosquitoes most active in Texas?
When it comes to mosquito season here in Texas, we have good news and we have bad news. The good news is that if the temperature drops below 50 degrees we will see a massive drop in the mosquito population. The bad news is that our temperatures rarely drop that low, even in the wintertime. That is, unless you live in northern Texas. This means that mosquitoes, for the most part, are a year-round pest problem here in Texas. However, this does not mean that they do not get worse during the summer months. Mosquitoes thrive more during hotter weather, you can expect an increase in their presence as spring turns into summer.
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
Mosquitoes are considered dangerous to both people and pets. The Asian Tiger mosquito and the Southern house mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting West Nile virus. Other diseases that mosquitoes have the potential to spread in the United States include encephalitis and the Zika virus. Mosquitoes commonly infect dogs with canine heartworm, a parasite that, if not prevented against or treated, is life-threatening.
Why do I have a mosquito problem?
Mosquitoes are attracted to areas of standing water. Standing water is where females lay their eggs and they then hatch, allowing larvae to develop into adults.
Ornamental ponds, marshes, wading pools, drainage ditches, and water that has collected in containers can all allow mosquitoes to thrive on any property. Plant nectar is the main food source for both female and male mosquitoes. Properties with an abundance of flowering vegetation are most attractive to mosquitoes.
Where will I find mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes tend to swarm together near areas of standing water, especially at dusk and dawn, when they are most active. During the middle of the day, when temperatures are at their highest, mosquitoes hide and rest. Common hiding spots for mosquitoes include in tall grasses and areas of dense vegetation, along fence lines, in roadway ditches, along tree lines, and underneath decks or porches.
Mosquitoes will make their way inside homes while searching for a blood meal. They enter through spaces found around windows and doors, open windows and doors, or through tears found in screens.
Do DIY mosquito treatments work?
While prevention tips can be a great way to minimize your exposure to mosquitoes, the only sure way you can keep your Texas property mosquito-free this summer is with professional mosquito treatment services from Bill Clark Bugsperts. While DIY methods can help some, the truth is that these treatments aren't very effective when it comes to protecting your home from such irritating insects. Here at Bill Clark Bugsperts, our licensed pest specialists have the equipment and experience you need to keep your Texas home protected over the entire mosquito season. For quality mosquito treatments you can trust, contact the Bugsperts today!
How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?
Thankfully, mosquitoes are simple insects, despite how difficult they can be to get rid of. Mosquitoes can find everything they need to breed and lay eggs on our properties. One of the best ways to minimize mosquito exposure this summer is to eliminate the factors that attract them and other pest insects to your property. While not 100% effective, these tips can help reduce the chances of attracting mosquitoes to your Texas home.
- Maintain clean gutters.
- Keep grass cut short.
- Remove dense vegetation from your property.
- Fill in low-lying areas to prevent water from collecting in them.
- Regularly remove water that collects on the tops of trash can lids, tarps, and similar items.
- Store buckets, wheelbarrows, baby pools, and other containers that collect water, upside down when not in use.
- If you own a pool, make sure that it is properly maintained.
- Regularly empty and refill kiddie pools, birdbaths, and your pet’s water dish.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
The best way to reduce the number of mosquitoes found living on your property is to partner with a professional. At Bill Clark Pest Control, our highly trained 'Bugsperts' receive continuous education and are up-to-date with the latest information and industry trends. To control mosquito populations, our professionals can provide thorough inspections and treatment through our mosquito control programs. For exceptional mosquito control in Southeast Texas, reach out to Bill Clark Pest Control.