Mosquito Season Is Upon Us
Author: Jessica Bushnell, Mosquito Board
Mosquito Season is Upon Us
Jessica Bushnell
Mosquito Board
April showers bring May flowers, but they also signal the start of mosquito season. It can seem like mosquitoes appear out of nowhere, and sometimes they do! When overnight temperatures consistently stay above 50 degrees, mosquitoes begin to come back for the season.
In Broadwater County, this warm-up typically occurs closer to mid-June. Mosquitoes can survive the winter in different forms: as adults, eggs, or larvae. When adult female mosquitoes emerge from their winter hibernation (known as diapause), they seek a blood meal to complete their life cycle. While their ability to transmit viruses is limited, they are still very hungry. Female mosquitoes require the proteins found in blood to produce eggs. The small amount of blood they draw from humans, mammals, birds, and even reptiles fuels their reproductive cycle.
Once the mosquito season begins, the next challenge for them is finding stagnant or flooded water, as fast-moving water is unsuitable for laying eggs. Many mosquito species only need a tiny amount of water to lay their eggs, meaning even a pond, a birdbath, an overwatered garden, or the folds of a tarp can serve as breeding grounds. To help control the mosquito population, start by removing standing water around your property.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Fill in low-lying areas where puddles and mud form to keep your property dry.
2. Turn over or remove objects that can collect water.
3. Cover boats to prevent water accumulation.
4. Dispose of old tires or drill holes to allow drainage.
5. Smooth out any creases in tarps and coverings.
6. Clear clogs in downspouts to ensure they drain properly.
7. Adjust rain gutters so that water drains quickly from them.
8. Circulate water in ponds and horse troughs.
9. Chlorinate swimming pools regularly.
10. Trim overgrown grass and thick vegetation where adult mosquitoes may hide.
By taking these steps, you can help reduce mosquito breeding sites and enjoy a more pleasant outdoor experience.
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