Experts predict a vicious mosquito season
There are many things to enjoy in the spring, but mosquitoes are not one of them and especially not this year. Experts across the region are predicting an especially fierce mosquito season again this year due to the warm winter we experienced and in many areas the infestations have already started.
“A mild winter means we don’t see the typical reduction in pest populations,” said Shay Runion, Hughes Pest Expert. “Combine that with wet weather and an early start to the reproduction process and it’s the perfect recipe for a huge population. And, in addition to leaving behind itchy red bites, they can also spread diseases like West Nile Virus and Encephalitis.”
Mosquitoes breed very quickly in stagnant water a bottle cap full is enough. It only takes 10 to 14 days to develop from an egg into an adult. Additionally, these pests are always hungry and will travel up to 14 miles for a meal.
To help homeowners protect themselves against mosquitoes this year, Hughes Exterminators recommends the following simple, proactive measures:
Eliminate all sources of standing water such as children’s wading pools, birdbaths and flower pots;
Keep rain gutters cleaned out to prevent water from standing in drains;
Cut back or get rid of unnecessary vegetation around the home where mosquitoes can breed and/or nest;
When swimming pools aren’t in use, keep them covered to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs;
Remove water that has collected in tree holes and hollow stumps;
Screen windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from getting inside homes; and
Consider using yellow bug light bulbs in outdoor light fixtures the bulbs reduce the number of flying insects around your home.
Courtesy Hughes Exterminators, www.hughes-exterminators.com