All About Mosquitoes

Feeding

Not only do mosquitoes feed on blood, but both males and females also feed on plant juices and nectar. Females mouthparts have adapted to be able to puncture the skins of animals, to feed on their blood. Females need blood meals to obtain the nutrients required to reproduce offspring. Mosquitoes are attracted to hosts with a type O blood type, excessive skin bacteria, pregnant women, and heavy breathers. Females hunt hosts by detecting the CO2 they breathe. They primarily feed in the evenings, after dusk and into the night.

Habitat

Mosquitoes are attracted to water sources and are more commonly found in areas with rivers, lakes, and ponds. They prefer to live in tall grass, shrubs, and low hanging branches of trees. Additionally, if rain gutters have poor drainage, there may be an increase in mosquito activity around the gutters.

Disease Transmission

Aside from having mildly painful and/or itchy bites, mosquitoes can carry diseases that can be dangerous or fatal. The most common diseases carried by mosquitoes, in the United States, include West Nile Virus and Zika Virus. The Zika Virus primarily affects pregnant women and the West Nile Virus affects those with a compromised immune system.

Control and Prevention

Mosquito control is best left to a professional, as most mosquito fogging products can be dangerous if not applied properly. Here at Spidexx, we provide ongoing mosquito maintenance for the spring and summer, as well as one time services for events.

Learn more about mosquito control by giving us a call at (855) 925-3550, or filling out the contact form below.