What are mosquitoes?
The mosquito is a type of biting fly and part of the order Diptera, making it a "true fly." Females require blood meals to create their eggs; females are responsible for delivering the itchy bites that these pests are well-known for. Mosquitoes use their extended mouthpart (proboscis) to feed on blood or plant nectar, the primary food source for both male and female mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes in our area tend to be most active at dawn or dusk when the temperatures are cooler, but it certainly isn't unheard of to be bitten by these pests during the middle of the day. In Arizona, mosquitoes can be present and active year-round but are most prevalent from March through October.
Are mosquitoes dangerous?
A large number of mosquitoes living in our yards affect our ability to enjoy our outdoor spaces comfortably and safely. Nobody wants to be outside in their yard when they are constantly being swarmed by biting mosquitoes.
Not only are these pests annoying to contend with, but they have an almost unmatched ability to spread diseases to people and animals through their saliva. Mosquitoes in the Tucson area are responsible for spreading diseases like:
- West Nile virus
Why do I have a mosquito problem?
Mosquitoes have the largest populations in areas with a lot of rainfall and standing water where they can lay their eggs. Though Tucson is not known for its rainy weather, mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to utilize as a breeding site.
Mosquitoes can become a problem anywhere potential breeding sites are found. Common mosquitoes breeding sites in our Tucson yards include:
- Puddles under dripping hoses or outdoor fixtures.
- Clogged gutters.
- Ornamental ponds and water features.
- Areas of dense vegetation.
Where will I find mosquitoes?
Between June and September is monsoon season in the Tucson area. It is the time of year when rain brings some relief from the hot summer temperatures. The rainwater left behind offers a prime place for mosquitoes to breed and produces large populations of these pests.
In addition, to gathering around their breeding sites, mosquitoes will be found around popular resting sites. During the day, mosquitoes like to escape the sun and heat by hiding in dark, shady areas. Popular resting spots include areas under trees, decks, shrubs, bushes, and within areas of tall grass or dense vegetation.
Keeping mosquitoes off our Arizona properties is very difficult. Partnering with a knowledgeable professional is the best way to keep these pests out of your yard and away from your family. If mosquitoes are constantly buzzing around your yard, reach out to Pest Friends today. We have a deep understanding of the specific species of mosquitoes that thrive in our area. Our professionals will solve your property's unique mosquito problems through our modern pest control solutions, eco-friendly approach, and innovative services.
Our mosquito control program addresses the breeding sites that the larvae live in and develop into new biting adults. To learn more about significantly reducing the number of mosquitoes living and breeding on your Tucson property, call Pest Friends today!
How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?
Protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites is essential because of the diseases these pests can spread. While the best solution is a professional solution, there are some things you can do around your property to make it less attractive to mosquitoes and help keep their populations down.
Properties with many resting spots and standing water will experience the most problems with these pests. Here are some things you can do in your yard to help keep mosquito numbers down.
- Keep gutters clear of debris that will allow water to pool in them.
- Repair leaky pipes and hoses that will cause water to pool around your house.
- Do not overwater garden areas.
- Regularly change out the water in wading pools, pet water dishes, and birdbaths.
- Keep shrubs, bushes, and trees on your property cut back to reduce shady spots where mosquitoes can rest.
- Cut back weeds and other overgrown vegetation on your property.