Mosquitoes

What are mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are tiny fly-like insects and are described as biting pests. It is the female mosquitoes that “bite” and feed on the blood of people and animals to get the protein needed to make viable eggs. Mosquitoes are common Wilmginton pests and are usually found living and breeding together in large numbers. Adults have a narrow oval-shaped body, long legs that hang down when in flight, and a long thin proboscis (nose) they use for feeding. Their one pair of wings has a covering of fine hair.

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

In addition to ruining your outdoor plans by the relentless, itchy bites they deliver, mosquitoes pose health risks to people. The female feeds on a variety of hosts, allowing them to pick-up and transmit a wide range of diseases to people. The West Nile virus and encephalitis are examples of diseases mosquitoes spread to people in the U.S.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

Mosquitoes are prolific breeders and thrive in warm, humid weather — making North Carolina a prime location for these insects. In ideal weather conditions, mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in a week or less. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. If your yard has problems with standing water or is near areas of standing water, you will experience issues with mosquitoes.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes breed on properties that have or are near sources of standing water. Ponds, marshes, wooded areas, drainage ditches, buckets, flower pots, wheelbarrows, and wading pools attract mosquitoes.

Both male and female mosquitoes feed on plant nectar as their primary food source, so lots of flowering vegetation also attract large populations of mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn when the weather is cooler. During the heat of the day, they rest on properties with lots of overgrown vegetation and tall grasses.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

Eliminating mosquitoes is a job for professionals. Control the number of mosquitoes on your Wilmington area property with the help of the local experts at Jay Taylor Exterminating. With over 80 years of experience in the industry, we know how to help homeowners minimize their exposure to mosquitoes. We deliver high-quality pest control and exceptional customer service that you can count on.

For homeowners who want to protect themselves and family from biting mosquitoes, reach out to Jay Taylor Exterminating and learn about our mosquito control solutions!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

Avoid attracting mosquitoes to your North Carolina property by implementing some of these mosquito prevention tips around your home:

• Eliminate as many sources of standing water from your property as possible.

• Store containers that collect water upside down when not in use.

• Maintain gutters and downspouts.

• Fix leaky outdoor faucets and hoses.

• Keep grass cut short and cut back overgrown vegetation.

• Limit the amount of flowering vegetation on your property.

• Repair loose or torn screens to help stop mosquitoes from finding their way inside of your home.

• Wear an appropriate mosquito repellent when spending time outside in mosquito-dense areas.

• If you own a pool, make sure it is properly maintained.