While most of us enjoy the warmth of spring and fall and the heat of summer, we can all agree that winter has its perks. One major perk is the lack of mosquitoes in the colder winter months. Unfortunately, we all know that it won’t last forever, but when will mosquitoes start swarming again?
When Will Mosquitoes Start Swarming Again?
The answer to this question isn’t entirely clear-cut. Mosquitoes either hibernate or die off in temperatures under 50 degrees, but that doesn’t mean that they’re active as soon as the thermometer reads 50°F. Between 50°F and 60°F, mosquitoes may be out and about, but they’ll be lethargic. They become more active over 60 degrees but prefer temperatures over 80 degrees.
Due to these ranges, the exact time of year that mosquitoes may start swarming can vary. It’s safe to say that when temperatures begin to consistently stay above 60°F, you will start to see them in larger numbers.
Why You Don’t Want Mosquitoes On Your Property
We all know that mosquitoes are annoying. They buzz in your ears, swarm around your head, and leave you with itchy bites all over. That alone is enough to not want them around. However, mosquitoes are quite dangerous as well. Worldwide mosquitoes are considered the deadliest animal alive, responsible for over 725,000 deaths a year. While not all of the diseases they transmit are a concern in the United States, there are several diseases, such as West Nile Virus, that mosquitoes do transmit in the United States.
How To Reduce Mosquito Populations On Your Property
With this information at hand, you can work now, before temperatures get warm, to reduce the chances of having mosquitoes swarm your property this spring, summer, and fall. Here are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Eliminate all areas of standing water on your property. Mosquitoes need only a small amount of water in which to lay eggs, so any area where water can collect is a potential breeding ground for them.
- Consider planting mosquito-repelling plants in your yard. These include lavender, marigolds, scented geraniums, and citronella grass.
- Make plans for the time you’ll spend outdoors. Have citronella candles and insect repellent on hand. Don’t wear scented perfumes or lotions when you know you’ll be spending time outside.
What To Do If You Still Get Mosquitoes
If mosquitoes lay eggs in water that dries up before they hatch, the eggs can survive for up to eight months. Then when they’re covered in water again, they’ll hatch. That means that eggs that were laid in the fall may end up emerging in the spring, even if you’ve taken preventative measures.
If you find that your property is overloaded with mosquitoes, call Aiken Pest Control. Our seasonal mosquito treatment will reduce mosquito populations in your yard, which will allow you to enjoy your time outside. Give us a call to learn more!