Summertime pests really know how to crash an outdoor dinner party, and none are more dangerous than the humble mosquito. They don't look like much of a threat, with their weak flying abilities and small stature, but don't let their modest appearance fool you; these pests are basically dirty needles with wings. They're definitely not a welcome sight in Tampa neighborhoods, and if you've discovered your property is overrun with these menaces in the twilight hours, it might be time to learn how to control them.
Facts About Mosquitoes In Tampa
Florida is home to a plethora of insects, including over 80 different species of mosquitoes. Only about 33 of those species are aggressive towards humans and pets, though, and even fewer are more common in residential areas:
- Asian Tiger Mosquitoes
- Gallinipper Mosquitoes
- Yellow Fever Mosquitoes
- Southern House Mosquitoes
Each of these species has its own unique characteristics, whether big or small, black and white striped, or dusty brown, but they all have the tell-tale structure that mosquitoes possess; gangly-legged, elongated body, and a single set of wings. Most mosquitoes are incredibly small, only measuring between 4 to 10mm long, but gallinipper mosquitoes can grow up to 25mm in length! That's just about an inch in imperial measurements. For an insect whose common name means “little gnat” in Spanish, this species of mosquito in particular overwhelmingly surpasses its namesake.
The Dangers Mosquitoes Pose To Your Tampa Property, And How To Keep Them Away
Mosquitoes are considered the most dangerous animal on the planet for one reason alone – blood-borne pathogens. Because of their super-spreader abilities, mosquitoes are linked to over one million deaths worldwide from illnesses such as:
- West Nile Virus
- Dengue Fever
- Zika Virus
- Yellow Fever
- Malaria
- Chikungunya Virus
- Several different strains of Encephalitis
With all of the deadly diseases, mosquitoes are known to spread, keeping your Tampa property free of mosquitoes is crucial to making sure you and your loved ones are safe this summer. Taking extra precautions may not be a complete guarantee to a mosquito-free backyard, but it will significantly reduce your chances of an overwhelming infestation.
These pests are attracted to overgrown foliage, standing water, and an abundant food source. The best first step is to remove any standing water from your property – dump out receptacles that collect an excess of rainwater and aerate your lawn to ensure proper drainage. Trimming back trees and bushes, pruning your garden, and keeping a regularly scheduled mowing routine should be your next priority, as they often hide in foliage during the hotter hours of the day.
Reducing their food supply may be a bit more tricky, especially if you enjoy spending time outside after sundown, but you may be surprised to learn that mosquitoes don't only drink blood; in fact, only female mosquitoes require the protein within the blood to create viable eggs. Their other food source is plant-based liquids, which are then reduced once scheduled yard maintenance is implemented, but wearing long sleeves and pants, applying insect repellent, and keeping tight-fitting lids on outdoor trash cans to deter rodents also reduce their food supply.
How To Battle A Mosquito Infestation On Your Tampa Property
Mosquitoes are pretty tough insects to eradicate, and store-bought pesticides can severely damage the natural ecosystem of your Tampa property. Take the guesswork out of pest control, and contact the professionals at Bold Servicing instead. We always use the highest quality pesticides and products in all of our treatments, and each visit comes with our pest-free guarantee. Don't let summer pests keep you indoors this year. Get in contact with us today to start discussing your mosquito control options!