The true vampires of the sky, these disease-spreading insects are prehistoric nightmares for mother nature.
Mosquitoes are small flying-insects that you can find just about anywhere except Antarctica. With a petite size of around 1/4-inches long, these critters are equipped with slender legs and antennae that give them their distinctive appearance. In most cases, mosquitoes will be brown or black with a few species sporting speckles across their legs and abdomen.
Mosquitoes are drawn to animals, capable of sensing heat and the carbon dioxide that we exhale. This helps them zero in on potential targets for their next meal.
Mosquitoes are parasites, they rely on the blood of animals, and unfortunately, humans, for their meals. This makes them less than popular at summer barbecues and backyard sports outings.
Interestingly though, females are the only gender that will feed as males exist purely for breeding purposes. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water or damp soil. The resulting larvae then morph through a series of stages until they grow into full-fledged adult mosquitoes.
When feeding, female mosquitoes inject a hypodermic-needle like proboscis into the victim which emits a saliva that contains an anesthetic and anticoagulant allowing the mosquito to feed uninterrupted. Using this blood, the mosquito will go on to lay up to 100 eggs in her nesting area of choice.
Mosquitoes can be found in a plethora of habitats. These include forests, wetlands, and surprisingly, even our cozy homes. They have a soft spot for warm and humid environments, which makes places like North Carolina a paradise for these critters.
Mosquitoes can travel at upwards of 1.5mph and they’ve been known to travel very long distances.
Mosquitoes are not just a buzzing nuisance but can also pose significant health risks. They're known to transmit over 100 diseases, some of which are serious like malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever. On top of that, they're not the most considerate house guests, laying eggs in water containers and causing damage to property.
If you've got a mosquito problem, here are some helpful tips:
Mosquitoes can make their way into your home through cracks, holes in the foundation, open windows and doors, or even hitching a ride on standing water. They are like moths to a flame when it comes to light and moisture, so they're more likely to invade during the spring and summer months.
Spotting a mosquito isn't hard. They're small, flying insects, about 1/4-inch long, with long, thin legs and antennae. They are usually black or brown in color.
If you can't seem to enjoy your summer in peace, it's time to call the professionals. A pest control company with expertise in mosquito control can help you regain your peace quickly and effectively. In many cases, investing in a top-notch mosquito treatment is the best way to eliminate a mosquito problem.
Here are some bonus tips on how to keep mosquitoes at bay:
If you're dealing with mosquitoes in Charlotte, or any other part of North Carolina, remember these tips!
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