Mosquitoes A Bigger Problem than Usual
All the water left from last week's rain could serve as a breeding ground for the pests. Find out what you can do to prevent the pesky insects from making your summer miserable.-->By: Jamiese Price
Updated: June 18, 2012
Mosquito season came early this year and experts predict it could be around longer than usual. David Davis works with the Wiregrass Mosquito Squad and on average he gets nearly 100 calls a week from people concerned about mosquitoes. The blood-sucking insects survived the mild winter and are already becoming a major nuisance this summer.
" The mosquitoes seem to be worse this year than in previous years. We had such a mild winter and the adults continued laying eggs. Mosquitoes can reproduce every ten to 14 days so mosquitoes have been an epidemic with this additional rain fall," explained Davis.
Davis says last week's rain hasn't helped. The left over water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
"When we have a large amount of rain especially coming off a drought, eggs that were laid in swampy areas will hatch," continued Davis.
Davis said homeowners should follow the five "T's" to keep mosquitoes out of their backyards.
Tip: Reduce standing water to eliminate mosquito threats including gutters and flat roofs.
Toss: Remove excess grass, leaves, firewood, and clippings from your yard.
Turn: Turn over items like old dog bowls and planters holding water underneath. If that water stays in their for a long period of time the mosquitoes will find the water and lay eggs and in ten to 14 more days you're going to have more mosquitoes laying more eggs.
Remove Tarps: If tarps stretched over firewood piles, boats or sports equipment aren't taut, they're holding water.
Treat: Utilize a mosquito elimination barrier treatment around your home and yard.
For more information visit Mosquito Squad at www.Mosquitosquad.com.
