Tips for Mosquito Control
Since the deadly West Nile outbreak of 1999, people have been more terrified of mosquitoes. Once thought to be just an annoying insect that tries to suck your blood, people now are more aware that mosquitoes can transmit deadly viruses and disease. Some of these are: West Nile Virus, yellow fever, heartworm (in animals), malaria, and many others. You can even have an allergic reaction to just the bite of the mosquito! Because of this, many homeowners want to know what they can do to better protect themselves from mosquitoes. If this sounds like you, please read on for some tips on mosquito control.
The first thing people think to do for effective mosquito control is to use poisons. Poisons are a good idea, however, you need to keep in mind that poisons do not last forever and they can often be expensive. You can also use mosquito traps, but they cannot possibly kill them all. What most people don't realize is that they may be harboring a mosquito environment right in their own yard. Mosquitoes breed and lay their eggs on free standing water. Eliminating all free standing water sources is an important tool for effective mosquito control.
First, eliminate all free standing water sources. This can be: bird baths, kiddie pools, animal watering containers, trash cans, flower pots, ponds, etc. If you cannot get rid of it, change out the water every two days. Second, remove debris from your rain gutters. If water is clogged up and not allowed to drain, you will have free standing water for mosquito breeding. Third, fill up any holes, potholes, ditches, etc. that collect water from drainage or rainfall. Fourth, check any tarps that cover boats, cars, etc. These may collect water. Maneuver them so that the water can drain off. Fifth, watch your sprinkler system and watering techniques. If it allows for free standing water after the watering is done, you may need to change how your lawn or yard gets watered.
Keep in mind that there are some free standing water sources that you cannot get rid of. One is your animal dishes and bird baths. In this situation, try to empty the water out at least once a week, preferably every day. Another example is with ponds. In this situation, place minnows and mosquito fish in your pond. These small fish are known to eat mosquito larvae as well as other bugs.
Now that you know various means to mosquito control, you should be better prepared to handle the situation. If you utilize all of these methods, you should notice a dramatic drop in the amount of mosquitoes in your yard. Mosquito control is very important for you, your family, and your animals.
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