Mosquitoes In Virginia

What do mosquitoes look like in Virginia?

Adult mosquitoes have narrow, oval-shaped bodies, distinctive long legs, and a long proboscis used for feeding. Both female and male mosquitoes feed on the nectar of flowers as their main food source; however, the females also need to feed on the blood of people and animals to get the protein that they need to produce their eggs. Though mosquitoes' exact appearance and color pattern depend on their exact species, they are typically black or gray and have white markings on their bodies and legs.

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Yes, mosquitoes are dangerous for a couple of different reasons. Therefore, you should take measures to prevent these pests from living and breeding on your property and keep them away from you, your family, and your pets.

First of all, mosquitoes' bites can be painful and leave itchy red welts behind; these welts can become infected due to excessive scratching and may require medical attention. Second is the fact that mosquitoes feed on the blood of a wide variety of hosts, meaning that they have the potential to pick up and spread a wide variety of diseases and parasites to you, your family members, and your pets. Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading many serious diseases, including West Nile virus and Zika virus to people and parasitic heartworm to our pets.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

Mosquitoes are attracted to properties that offer them places to feed, breed, and thrive. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on top of standing water, and therefore, properties with areas of standing water attract mosquitoes. Common breeding spots for mosquitoes include the tops of tarps and trash can lids, wading pools, birdbaths, buckets, plant pots, wheelbarrows, and low-lying areas of your property.

During the heat of the day, mosquitoes like to hide out in spots that offer refuge from the heat of the sun. Some examples of these areas include tall grass, overgrown shrubs and bushes, wooded areas, and underneath porches and decks. As we previously stated, both male and female mosquitoes feed on plant nectar, so properties with lots of flowering plants and trees may also attract mosquitoes.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes live and breed outdoors, so it is impossible to eliminate them from any property; however, you can take steps to reduce their populations on your property significantly. While trying to treat a mosquito infestation on your own using products bought from big box stores may be tempting, it is important to know that DIY pest treatments won't get the job done! DIY treatments won't work to find and treat the root of the infestation. In addition, using unknown chemicals in and around your home is never a good idea.

To reduce mosquito populations on your property, reach out to the mosquito control professionals found at All Pest Control & Solutions! Our professionals will complete an inspection of your property, accurately identify the infestation, and customize a treatment plan specific to your property. To learn about our mosquito control solutions, contact us today at All Pest Control & Solutions!

Does All Pest Control have any mosquito prevention tips?

Preventing problems with mosquitoes on your property can be difficult, but there are a few things you can do to help deter these biting, disease-spreading pests.

• Reduce the amount of flowering vegetation found on your property, especially planted near the exterior of your home.

• Keep your lawn cut short by mowing it regularly.

• Cut back any wooded areas and overgrown vegetation away from your home’s property line.

• Store items on your property that can collect rainwater upside down when not in use. Maintain the pools on your property (treat large pools, dump out kiddie pools when not in use, etc.), make sure your gutters are clear of debris and are not collecting water, and regularly remove any trash from your property. It may also be helpful to poke holes in items like tire swings and plant pots to allow for proper drainage.

• Make sure to caulk any spaces found around your windows and doors and that all window and door screens are intact to help prevent mosquitoes from finding their way inside your home.

Helpful Mosquito Articles

What Am I Doing To Attract Mosquitoes To My Yard?
5 Things Christiansburg Residents Should Know About Mosquitoes