Mosquito Identification & Prevention Guide

What are mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes have narrow, oval-shaped bodies with long legs that hang down during flight and long, thin mouthparts (proboscises) that they use for feeding. These insects have one pair of wings covered in fine hairs. Their exact color and color pattern depends on their species, but most mosquitoes are black or black and white. Although plant nectar is the mosquito's primary food source, females will also feed on the blood of warm-blooded mammals in order to obtain the required protein they need to create viable eggs. These insects are prolific breeders and thrive in warm, wet weather. Under ideal weather conditions, mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in a week or less.

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Mosquitoes are vectors of serious diseases that can make people and animals very ill. While not every mosquito harbors or spreads disease, it is vital to limit your exposure to them. These blood-sucking insects spread illnesses such as encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Zika virus. Along with the health risks, these pests are well known for driving people indoors and having large populations of mosquitoes living and breeding on your property will make it impossible to enjoy your outdoor space with family and friends.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

Mosquitoes are most problematic for properties near areas of standing water. Drainage ditches, marshes, ponds, wading pools, and wooded areas all act as breeding sites for mosquitoes and allow them to thrive. Other things that attract mosquitoes include containers that collect water, tall grasses, and flowering vegetation.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes live and breed outdoors, which is why they are so difficult to control. Sometimes mosquitoes find their way inside through open doors and windows, as well as torn door and window screens. They tend to be most active during dusk or dawn when the weather is a bit cooler. During the heat of the day, mosquitoes hide behind tree bark, in tall grasses, under shrubs, and underneath decks and other structures.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

At Roberts Termite & Pest Control, we have been providing high-quality pest control here in Austin, TX for over 60 years. Our technicians use environmentally friendly products and advanced techniques to get rid of mosquitoes and other common pests. Through quality customer service and flexible scheduling, we work with you to meet your unique Greater Austin pest control needs. Learn more about our mosquito control services or schedule a free consultation by reaching out to Roberts Pest Control today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

In addition to our professional mosquito control services, the following prevention tips will help you to prevent problems with mosquitoes in your home or business:

• Store containers that collect water upside down when not in use to eliminating breeding sites from your property.

• Place weatherstripping around windows and doors.

• Regularly clean gutters and downspouts.

• Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible, and repair all torn window and doors screens.

• Keep grass cut short, cut back overgrown vegetation, and limit flowering vegetation planted near your foundation.