What do mosquitoes look like?
Asian tiger mosquitoes are one of the most prevalent species of mosquitoes in South Carolina, and are identifiable by the black and white “tiger-striped” pattern on their bodies and legs. These small mosquitoes are about ¼-inch long and have a single silver-white line running from their heads down their backs.
When are mosquitoes most active?
Why do mosquitoes bite humans?
Female mosquitoes feed on the blood of humans (and other mammals) in order to obtain proteins needed for egg development. Without that blood meal, they cannot reproduce.
Do all mosquitoes bite?
No, only female mosquitoes bite. Male mosquitoes do not need blood, and therefore do not bite.
What do mosquitoes eat?
Male mosquitoes feed on plant nectar. In addition to blood, females have a nutritional need for sugar and acquire it through the nectar of flowering plants.
What attracts mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are attracted to flowering plants, standing water, yard debris, tall grasses, and thick vegetation attract mosquitoes.
Body heat, carbon dioxide, body odor, and chemicals found in sweat attract mosquitoes to humans, as does dark clothing and floral scents.
Do mosquitoes transmit diseases?
They certainly can! In fact, Asian tiger mosquitoes are known vectors of several diseases including Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus. It is important to note that not all mosquitoes carry disease, only infected ones.
Do natural mosquito repellents work?
Natural repellents such as citronella, eucalyptus oil, and tea tree oil are said to repel mosquitoes, however their effectiveness is questionable.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes?
To reduce the mosquito population on your property, contact Harris Pest Control for proven mosquito treatments! Our seasonal mosquito control is available in Florence, Myrtle Beach, and throughout the Pee Dee and Grand Strand areas and include monthly services April through September. While it is impossible to completely eliminate these biting pests, our pest control specialists will drastically reduce their numbers so that you can enjoy your outdoor living space. In addition to our seasonal services, Harris Pest Control also offers home pest control plans that include seasonal mosquito misting treatments.
How can I prevent mosquitoes?
Since mosquitoes develop in water, we highly recommend eliminating all standing water on your property. This includes:
- Emptying bird baths once a week
- Making sure your pool cover isn’t storing water
- Turning over toys, flower pots, wheel barrows and other items that can hold water
- Unclogging rain gutters
- Filling in holes in the yard
Since mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, try to schedule activities when they’re not out and about in order to prevent mosquito bites. You should also:
- Clear away yard debris
- Mow your lawn regularly
- Trim back and/or thin out vegetation
- Install or repair screens on windows and doors
- Keep garage doors closed when not in use
- Use yellow lights outside
