Tips to Win the War Against Iowa's Mosquitoes This Summer

May 30, 2019

Do mosquitoes attack you immediately when you step outside? Do you constantly feel like a mosquito magnet? If you’re in need of some backyard mosquito control, you are not alone! Mosquitoes can ruin a fun-filled day with your kids in the backyard, or an evening barbeque with friends. With a few of our helpful tips and tricks, you’ll discover the best way to repel mosquitoes from your yard so you can enjoy the rest of your summer outdoors.

A Mosquito's Life

You may find it hard to believe there’s more than 3,000 species of mosquitoes in the world, luckily there are only approximately 176 found in the United States. Mosquitoes, also known as True Flies, are members of the insect order called Diptera. They have two wings, six legs, and unlike other flies, they have scales.. Surprisingly, not all mosquitoes have the ability to bite humans. Only females have mouthparts formed with a long piercing proboscis that sucks up blood, whereas male mosquitoes have a feathery antennae and mouth not suitable for piercing the skin.

Mosquitoes are cold-blooded and prefer weather above 80 degrees, which is why Iowans typically only seek backyard mosquito control during our hot summer months. When weather consistently drops below 50 degrees, the mosquitoes begin to hibernate for the season. Adult female mosquitoes choose warmer areas such as holes for hibernation until the weather warms up, and in some cases, the female will lay their eggs in freezing water where they will hatch when the temperatures rise. Mosquitoes will spend their first 10 days in water until they have fully developed into adults.

Mosquito Fast Facts

• Average mosquito lifespan ranges from two weeks to two months
• They are typically between 1/8 to 3/4 inches in size
• Mosquitoes are carnivores
• ’Mosquito’ is Spanish for 'little fly'
• Mosquitoes do not have teeth
• A mosquito can consume up to three times its weight in blood
• Mosquitoes are considered one of the deadliest 'animals' in the world
• Mosquitoes can smell human breath
• Sweat and body heat help mosquitoes zero in on their target

Species of Mosquitoes Found in Iowa

There are two main types of mosquitoes found in Iowa: vector and floodwater mosquitoes. Floodwater mosquitoes tend to lay their eggs in relatively low-lying areas immersed in water and will hatch approximately two weeks later after a heavy rainfall. Floodwater mosquitoes can bite and be a nuisance, but they are not known to carry diseases. On the other hand, vector mosquitoes do carry diseases. These mosquitoes lay their eggs on the surface of stagnant water in places such as low ditches, ponds, etc. Their eggs will hatch in about two days and remain close to where they are born.

Backyard Mosquito Control & Prevention

Mosquito season is just beginning, and taking the right precautions by using mosquito repellent for your yard is crucial to staying healthy. Many mosquito problems are often caused by any location with standing water or items that hold water, allowing them to breed.

For the best ways to repel mosquitoes from the yard, follow these effective mosquito prevention tips:

• Eliminate standing water in nearby ditches, low spots or gutters
• Regularly empty items that hold water such as bird baths, pot plant saucers, pool covers, etc.
• Empty and clean pet water dishes regularly
• Repair any leaky outdoor faucets

What to Wear to Repel Mosquitoes

According to the American Mosquito Control Association, wearing light colored and loose fitting clothing is most effective when preventing mosquito bites. Recent studies suggest mosquito species within the United States tend to be more attracted to dark colors as well as tight clothing that is more accessible to bite through.

Mosquito Spray for Yard Protection

When choosing a mosquito repellent for the yard, be sure it has been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency. Approved products have been reviewed, and pose little risk to human safety when following label directions. When choosing repellent, DEET is considered to be one the most effective mosquito repellents for yards and patios.

Preferred Pest Control performs mosquito lawn treatment service that involves an inspection for potential breeding sites and one-time mosquito spray for the yard. If you have an outdoor event coming up or you’d like to enjoy your patio more often, reach out to our pest prevention experts. We will provide the best solution to repel mosquitoes from your yard.

Mosquito Control Services

Don't let mosquitoes ruin your summer! With effective mosquito spray treatments, you can still enjoy outdoor activities in your backyard. The professionals at Preferred Pest Control will help you ward off these pesky insects with our industry-leading backyard mosquito control solutions. Schedule a mosquito lawn treatment appointment today!