Mosquitoes are nasty and abundant pests, especiallyin the humid climates found in California. That’s why it’s important for every local property owner to realize what attracts mosquitoes and how to reduce their numbers. From prevention tips to the scientific information related to their bites, there’s plenty to learn about these parasitic pests.
Mosquitoes & Who They Target
No one is immune to a mosquito bite and, chances are, you’ve been bitten by one in the past. If so, you know that they leave unpleasant and itchy welts behind on the skin, after they puncture it with their long noses. While all people, and even many animals, can be targets of mosquitoes, some are more prone to being bitten:
- Pregnant women: While pregnant, women’s bodies produce higher levels of carbon dioxide, which mosquitoes are attracted to. Pregnant women also have higher core body temperatures, and mosquitoes also seek out warm-blooded bodies.
- Type O blood: Those with Type O blood are universal donors, and also extra attractive to mosquitoes. Scientists theorize that it’s due to the unique pheromones secreted by those with this specific blood-type.
- Intoxication: No, it’s not like mosquitoes are trying to draw alcohol from people’s blood. Instead, those who are intoxicated often have higher heart rates, which increases body temperature and metabolism. Alcohol, specifically, is a blood thinner, making it all the easier for mosquitoes to draw from the skin.
Dangerous Bites
While mosquitoes look for certain factors, they can be a risk to anyone and everyone. It’s not just the gross parasitic feeding that you need to protect yourself from, either. You also need to deter mosquitoes to avoid the serious illnesses that they can carry:
- Malaria: One of the scarier mosquito-borne illnesses, malaria is a microscopic parasite that attacks red blood cells in the body.
- West Nile virus: While symptoms tend to be mild, containing West Nile virus is crucial for not overburdening hospitals, especially in impoverished countries.
- Ebola: Yes, mosquitoes also spread the blood-borne virus that made a name for itself a few years back.
How To Protect Against Parasitic Pests
All this has probably got you wondering what you can do to reduce mosquito populations around your property. Not to worry, professionals are on-hand to offer superior protection. You can also take the following preventative steps around your yard:
- Landscaping: Mosquitoes may be flying pests, but they don’t like to expend the energy it takes to stay airborne for long. Instead, they wait on leaves, grasses, and other vegetation and wait for something with a pulse to wander by. Keeping your yard trimmed will reduce landing points for mosquitoes.
- Moisture control: Mosquitoes get all the water they need from the blood they feed on, but they require standing water to lay their egg clusters in. Even a slight amount of still water can attract mosquitoes to your yard.
- Treatments: The best way to keep mosquitoes out is with professional treatments of your exterior. Contact Excel Pest Management to learn more about effective yard solutions.
Professional Assistance Is The Way To Go
Due to the serious threats they can pose to your health, mosquitoes are considered some of the most dangerous pests in the world. That’s why every property owner should get started today on proper prevention and control of mosquitoes and the factors that draw them to a property. At Excel Pest Management, we offer assistance at every step of the way, from early prevention to prompt removal of pests that are already there. Contact us today to get started with a routine inspection, so you can make sure you’re doing all you can to avoid mosquito bites.