Mosquito Identification & Prevention

Mosquitoes are small flies that, believe it or not, play two vital roles within the ecosystem. 

1. Mosquitoes are a food source for many insects, birds, reptiles, and other animals.
2. Their diet means that mosquitoes are vital pollinators. Though mosquitoes are well-known for being biting, blood-feeding pests, their primary food source is actually plant nectar.

Though mosquitoes are important to the balance of the ecosystem, when they invade our outdoor spaces in large numbers, they quickly wear out their welcome! Mosquitoes are biting pests that cause red, itchy welts on their human and animal hosts.

Female mosquitoes use their elongated, piercing mouthparts to pierce the skin of their hosts and consume blood meals. Only female mosquitoes bite because they require blood meals to create their eggs and complete their lifecycles.

Though not every mosquito is riddled with disease, some are, making them a danger to be around.

Female mosquitoes carry and spread diseases through their feeding process that can make people and animals ill. The West Nile virus is the most reported virus spread by mosquitoes in Georgia. Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and vomiting.

In Georgia, mosquitoes are also well known for spreading parasitic heartworms to dogs and cats. Heartworm disease is a serious problem in our region, and pets should be on a year-round heartworm preventative prescribed by their veterinarian.

Controlling mosquito populations in places where people spend a lot of time, like parks, athletic fields, campgrounds, and our backyards, is key to preventing the spread of disease.

Georgia and its climate is the perfect place for mosquitoes to call home. These flying insects thrive in hot, humid climates and are active throughout the entire summer and most of the spring and fall seasons. Anytime the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, mosquitoes are active.

During the day, most mosquitoes seek out shady spots to rest and escape the direct sunlight. Mosquitoes are most problematic in areas with a lot of grass, trees, and other vegetation, making most of our Atlanta yards places they can thrive.

Standing water is the biggest attractant for mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs on top of areas of standing water. The more standing water there is, the more problematic mosquitoes will be. Their attraction to areas of standing water is the reason why are long periods of rain or heavy rains, mosquito populations explode!

Things found in most of our yards that collect water and provide breeding sites for mosquitoes include clogged gutters, flower pots, low-lying areas, tree hollows, yard debris, trashcans, and the tops of tarps.

The answer to the common question of “how do I get rid of mosquitoes” is easy- with the help of a local Atlanta pest control professional!

Mosquitoes are outdoor pests and can use their wings to fly onto any property that meets their needs. Therefore regular mosquito treatments performed by a caring and experienced professional are the most effective way to keep these pests at bay. Here at Solstys Environmental, we offer comprehensive treatment plans that include a thorough inspection, identifying the types of mosquitoes present, recommendations to reduce water sources, and effective treatment.

For a long-term solution to your property’s mosquito problems, please get in touch with Solstys Environmental today and learn more about the high-quality mosquito control services we offer in Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding areas!

Use the following four simple tips to help prevent mosquitoes from swarming your Atlanta backyard.

1. Keep your yard free of yard debris and keep the grass cut short.
2. Plant, plants that deter mosquitoes in gardens around your home- marigolds, mint, lavender, rosemary.
3. Remove standing water from your yard.
4. Cut back trees and shrubs to limit shady resting spots in your yard and near your home.

Along with the above tips, partner with us and implement regular mosquito control services to guard your yard and your family against these biting pests.