Of all the pests that we have to deal with here in Ventura County, perhaps the most obnoxious is the mosquito; they buzz around your head, bite your exposed skin, and leave itchy red welts. However, mosquitoes are far more than just obnoxious. They are quite dangerous. In fact, mosquitoes are considered to be the most dangerous animals on the planet.
That is precisely why you need to know the best methods for reducing mosquito populations around your Ventura County property. Not only will it keep these obnoxious pests from annoying you and your family, but it will also keep you safer.
Identifying Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are small fly-like insects with six legs, wings, and tube-like mouthparts which they use for feeding. Though all mosquitos will feed on plant nectar, the females also feed on the blood humans which is when they become both annoying and dangerous to us. The reason for this is because female mosquitoes require the blood of mammals to produce viable eggs.
Additionally, female mosquitoes require standing water, on which they lay their eggs. As such, mosquitoes are often found in areas where standing water is abundant. This could be ponds, lakes, marshes, or even your yard if there are pools of standing water somewhere.
Are Mosquitoes Dangerous?
As previously stated, mosquitoes are considered to be the most dangerous animals in the world. That is because they are known to spread a vast array of bloodborne diseases as they feed on different animals and people. Although here in the United States, mosquitoes are not as dangerous as they are in developing countries, there are still instances of mosquitoes transmitting diseases here. Some of the diseases that mosquitoes have been known to transmit include encephalitis, malaria, dengue, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and yellow fever. So, although the risk may not be as great here in the U.S. as in developing countries, you are still potentially at risk. This is why you should take steps to limit the number of mosquitoes around your yard.
Mosquito Prevention
Mosquitos will, more often than not, come into a yard or property if there is easy access to food or standing water available in the area. With that in mind, some of the best ways to prevent mosquitos from invading your property include:
- Keep gutters clear of debris to prevent pooling.
- Fix leaky pipes, water spouts, and fixtures.
- Fill in low-lying areas and holes around your property so that they do not fill with rainwater.
- Keep all containers and lids stored upside down so they do not fill with water.
- Keep your lawn well-manicured.
- Trim overgrowth and vegetation around your property.
- Install window and door screens in your home.
- Mend any rips or tears in currently-installed window and doors screens.
If you are able to accomplish these mosquito-prevention techniques, you should be able to greatly reduce the mosquito population around your property and thus limit your exposure to the potential threats that mosquitoes pose.
For More Mosquito Prevention Advice And Treatment.
If you have questions about mosquito prevention on your property, or if you are currently dealing with a mosquito infestation, contact the trained pest professionals here at Ventura County Pest Control immediately.
Here at Ventura County Pest Control, we have the requisite experience and expertise to effectively treat and eliminate any mosquito infestation with which you may be dealing. Additionally, we will work with you to take the necessary steps to prevent future infestations. Don’t put your health at risk. Give us a call today.
