Mosquito control in Goldsboro is a common subject of conversation. These annoying insects raise questions surrounding health and safety due to the diseases they sometimes carry. Keeping mosquitoes away from your Goldsboro home is the best way to reduce the risk of catching a mosquito-borne disease or suffering from an allergic reaction to mosquito bites.
In this article, we'll discuss how to identify mosquitoes, the types of diseases they can transmit, and how to keep mosquitoes away naturally with our effective pest control services in Goldsboro.
How To Identify A Mosquito
People often confuse mosquitoes with gnats and flies due to their similar small size and ability to fly. Each of these insects lingers around standing water and decaying matter, which can lead to mistaken identification.
However, mosquitoes are small, slender insects with long legs and a narrow, elongated body, growing to less than an inch on average. They have two wings and a pair of long antennae.
Female mosquitoes use their proboscis to pierce exposed skin and feed on blood. Females require blood to complete their egg-laying process. You'll find mosquitoes near sources of standing water as they lay their eggs in still water.
Mosquitoes are most active during the dawn and dusk hours. These are the times when their activity peaks, and they are more likely to seek out hosts for blood meals. Some mosquito species can also be active at night or in shaded areas throughout the day, depending on their species and environmental factors.
The Dangerous Diseases Mosquito Bites Can Spread
According to the CDC, mosquito bites can transmit several harmful diseases to humans and animals, including the following:
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted through the Anopheles mosquito.
Dengue fever is a viral infection that can lead to severe flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, hemorrhagic fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
Zika is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes, or more specifically, Aedes mosquitoes, that can cause birth defects in babies born to infected mothers.
West Nile virus, transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, is a viral infection that can lead to fever, headache, body aches, and more severe neurological complications.
It takes just one bite from an infected mosquito to transmit a dangerous disease. If you experience any of these symptoms after a mosquito bite, please see a medical provider immediately.
Naturally Effective Mosquito Prevention Tips For Around The Yard
Here are a few natural ways to get rid of mosquitoes near your home and keep them away:
Regularly empty or change the water in birdbaths, flower pots, gutters, and other containers where water can accumulate. Mosquitoes are more likely to spend time near stagnant water to breed.
Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lavender, basil, and marigolds around your yard to deter mosquitoes.
Essential oils, like citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus, serve as natural mosquito repellents due to their potent scents. They deter mosquitoes from approaching and biting when applied or diffused. However, efficacy may vary, and patch testing is advisable to avoid skin irritation. Always dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil, like olive oil, before using it directly on the skin.
Make sure all doors and windows have proper fitting screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Natural mosquito traps typically utilize attractants like carbon dioxide or light to lure mosquitoes, then capture them within the trap. Place the traps near standing water or in shady spots where mosquitoes are often active in groups. Regularly clean and maintain the traps to ensure their effectiveness in reducing mosquito populations.
Mosquitoes often hide in tall grass and dense vegetation, so regularly mow your lawn and trim the bushes.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can create a mosquito-free zone in and around your home.
The Best Way To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Yard
While natural prevention methods can help reduce mosquito populations, a more robust approach is sometimes needed. Hiring a professional pest control service that will deliver a quality mosquito treatment to your property is the best way to keep these pests away from your yard.
Don't let mosquitoes ruin your outdoor activities or put your health at risk. By identifying mosquitoes, understanding their risks, implementing natural prevention tips, and considering professional mosquito control, you can stay protected and enjoy the great outdoors on your Goldsboro property without worry.
If mosquitoes are taking over your yard, don't hesitate to contact Arrest A Pest Exterminators to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Goldsboro. Our business is family owned and operated, and we bring 20 years of experience to every job.