Mosquito Control: Can It Be Done?
In July 2019 the TV and print media across Florida heralded the increase of a mosquito-borne virus known as Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Mosquitoes are annoying enough, but when they turn deadly it is just scary.
We are not trying to scare you, but we at Heath Pest Control know that there are mosquito control steps that homeowners can take to fight the battle with what seems to be the inevitable mosquito onslaught during our warm and wet months.
There is no need to feel captive to tropical Florida’s mosquitoes. While there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure, only a well-considered treatment plan by professionals has the hope of freeing you of this constant nuisance. Let’s learn more.
That Darn Gallinipper
The mosquito native to our area is the Psorophora ciliata, lovingly known as the gallinipper due to its aggressive behavior and painful “bite.” These are large ones, the same species that Texans claim to put saddles on. They have been known to carry encephalitis and West Nile virus pathogens, but are not significant players infecting humans.
The Asian Tiger Mosquito
The invasive Aedes albopictus or Asian tiger mosquito originated in Southeast Asia. They are smaller than our gallinippers, but these tiger mosquitoes have a black-and-white striped body and legs if you are looking closely. But we hope you don’t have to look too closely as this one is responsible for carrying a number of viruses, including West Nile virus, Zika virus, and dengue fever!
But that’s not all. There are around 80 known species of mosquitoes in Florida, which wins the prize for the most of any U.S. state. Of these, 33 can cause problems for people and pets, and 13 can carry potentially serious diseases. That list again is West Nile virus, Zika virus, Eastern equine and St. Louis encephalitis, chikungunya fever, dengue fever, malaria, yellow fever, and Rift Valley fever.
What can you do??
Eliminate the mosquito’s natural breeding ground.
A female mosquito only needs a tiny bit of moisture in order to lay her eggs. She can lay as many as 300 eggs every three days!
A homeowner’s first step in mosquito control is to minimize this moisture by removing or covering objects that collect water such as lawn furniture, flower pots, garbage cans, debris, and poorly maintained swimming pools. Not all the moisture can be removed — bromeliads capture enough water for more than one mosquito mama.
Call in the Professionals
There are treatments that we can implement to eliminate adult mosquitoes, kill eggs and larvae, and provide protection over time.
Call us in to assess the hot spots on your property that are providing refuge for mosquitoes and their breeding grounds. We can agree on the treatment plan to provide you the relief you need.
TESTIMONIALS
“Unfortunately we had fleas all over our new house ,brought in by a dog we babysat.? I immediately called Heath Pest Control (who was already my pest guy) to schedule an emergency appointment, to which he clearly explained to me my options with his company, but also my options of trying to deal with it myself. And through his guidance and information, I was able to rid my house of fleas on my own. It was very refreshing to have someone honest just trying to help me, instead of just trying to make money off of me. I will always use Heath Pest Control, And will always recommend them to my friends and family.” (Amanda Robinson)
