What are mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are fly-like creatures that belong to the same groups as true flies. Adult mosquitoes have narrow bodies, and grow to about 1/4 of an inch in length. They come in a variety of colors including gray, black, or brown in color, some may also have white markings. Some species will have metallic scales covering their body. Mosquitoes have a single pair of wings covered in scales, and long, thin legs that dangle below when in flight.

Described as biting pests, mosquitoes are not only annoying, but dangerous. To feed, they use a proboscis: an extended mouth-like structure. Female mosquitoes bite and feed on the blood of people and animal hosts- transmitting diseases as they feed. They require blood meals to create healthy eggs that develop into new mosquitoes. Females feed on blood, but nectar is the main food source for both male and female mosquitoes.

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Despite their size and frail nature, mosquitoes are dangerous pests, and contact with them should be avoided as much as possible. In our Cypress service area, they carry and transmit a variety of diseases including encephalitis, Zika, and the West Nile virus. They also spread parasitic heartworms to our pets, which if not treated for is life-threatening.

In addition, to spreading diseases, mosquitoes are unwanted because they are relentless in delivering itchy bites. Excessive itching of the bite sites has the potential to lead to secondary infections, especially in young children.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

The biggest reason you have a mosquito problem is, there is easy access to standing water on or near your property. Females lay their eggs on top of areas of standing water; anything from the top of a trash can lid to a drainage ditch to a lake or pond act as breeding sites for mosquitoes. Other breeding sites include marshes, heavily wooded areas, and tree stumps.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

You will find mosquitoes most problematic and active in the spring, summer, and fall seasons when the weather is warm and humid. During the heat of the day, mosquitoes hide out in areas cooler areas like tall grass, under tree canopies, under decks, and in dense vegetation.

At dusk or dawn, large numbers of mosquitoes swarm around areas of standing water, and flowering plants. They also gather around people and animals as they search for a blood meal. Mosquitoes are mainly outdoor pests but do find their way inside while searching for blood meals. They often find their way inside through open windows or doors or damaged screens.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

The best solution to your problem with mosquitoes is a professional solution. At TNT Home & Commercial Services, we take our time and provide the thorough services needed to solve pest problems once and for all. Our central focus is to ensure that our customers are satisfied, and their property is free of pests! For more information about protecting your Greater Cypress home or business from mosquitoes and our area’s other common pests, reach out to TNT Home & Commercial Services today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

More than an inconvenience, pests can be dangerous and cause a lot of damage. In addition to our professional home pest control and commercial pest control services, use the following tips to keep mosquitoes out of your home:

• Eliminate standing water from your property.
• Store containers that collect water upside down or indoors when not in use.
• Change water in birdbaths, wading pools, and pet water bowls regularly.
• Fix any low lying areas in your driveway or yard.
• Mow your lawn often to keep the grass short.
• Limit the amount of flowering vegetation planted on your property.
• Avoid spending time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (at dusk and dawn.)
• Mosquitoes are weak flyers. Use outdoor fans to keep them away from decks and other outdoor seating areas.