What are the signs of mosquitoes?

Identifying the signs of mosquitoes is not just a matter of avoiding those pesky bites; it’s your first line of defense against a full-blown mosquito infestation. These tiny insects are more than just an annoyance; they can pose serious health risks by transmitting diseases like West Nile, Zika, and dengue fever. Arming yourself with knowledge about mosquito behavior, breeding habits, and habitat can help empower you to reclaim your space from these unwelcome pests.

Signs of mosquito activity and infestations

Mosquitoes aren't exactly shy about making their presence known (or felt!). Here are some common signs of mosquitoes to watch out for:

• Bites: Those red, itchy mosquito bites are the most apparent sign mosquitoes are around.
• Buzzing sounds: That high-pitched whine you hear, especially at dusk and dawn, usually means mosquitoes are nearby.
• Seeing mosquitoes: If you see mosquitoes flying around, especially lots of them, it's a good indication you have a mosquito problem.
• Standing water: Anywhere water sits still—bird baths, clogged gutters, even flower pots—is a potential mosquito breeding ground.

When do mosquitoes come out?

Knowing when mosquitoes are most active is key to avoiding them. Generally, many mosquitoes are most active during twilight, meaning dawn and dusk. This is when temperatures are cooler and humidity is higher, which creates ideal conditions for them. However, some species, like the Asian tiger mosquito, can be active during daylight hours. 

Mosquito season largely depends on the regional climate. Typically, it begins when temperatures consistently rise above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and persists through the warmer months, extending from spring through fall. In warmer climates, mosquito activity can occur nearly year-round.

What can increase mosquito activity or cause an infestation?

Mosquitoes are attracted to a few things, but standing water is where they thrive. That's where they lay their eggs, so anything from bird baths and clogged gutters to even a forgotten flower pot can become a breeding ground. Adult mosquitoes are drawn to several factors, including the carbon dioxide we exhale, body heat, and specific body odors. They thrive in warm, humid environments. As a result, areas with high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and standing water tend to have the highest populations of mosquitoes.

Targeting mosquitoes before they become a major problem

If you're noticing frequent signs of mosquitoes, it's definitely time to take action. There are a few DIY control options, such as citronella candles, natural remedies, or simply eliminating standing water. Utilizing smells mosquitoes hate, such as citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus, may offer short-term relief. While these options can help temporarily, they're often ineffective against a persistent or large-scale mosquito infestation. That's where professional services, like those offered by Western Exterminators, truly shine. 

At Western Exterminator, we offer comprehensive mosquito control services tailored to your specific needs. Our expert exterminators will identify the source of your mosquito problem and implement a targeted treatment plan to help eliminate existing mosquitoes and prevent future infestations. Don't let mosquitoes ruin your summer—contact us to get started with Western Exterminator’s mosquito control services!