Houston Mosquito Control

Why Does Houston Have Such a Huge Mosquito Problem?

Mosquitoes are so common in the Houston area particularly because our climate is essentially perfect for them to flourish. Our sub-tropical location means that during spring and summer months, these bugs have the heat and humidity they need to not just survive, but to thrive. Populations tend to explode around the time of the first major heatwave of the year, and these bugs tend to stay around until the weather starts to cool for good.

We can treat your home for all types of mosquitoes, including:

• The Aedes Aegyptii: A small species of mosquito that is the primary carrier of the Zika virus
• The Asian Tiger Mosquito: These mosquitoes are primarily active in the evening hours, and thrive on standing water. They contribute to the spread of diseases including West Nile virus, dengue fever, and yellow fever.
• The Culex Pipiens: These mosquitoes are strongly attracted to sugar sources, and females feed on the blood of birds and humans to develop eggs. They spread meningitis, encephalitis, and other diseases commonly associated with birds.
• The Anopheles Quadrimaculatus: Outbreaks of malaria are frequently attributed to these bloodsuckers, as well as cases of canine heartworms.

How To Prevent The Need For Mosquito Control

1. Trim hedges and bushes - Since mosquitos thrive in shady areas and are susceptible to sunlight, you should minimize shade in your yard in order to prevent the need for mosquito control.

2. Consider a dehumidifier - Since mosquitos thrive in moist conditions, dehumidifiers can be great in order to keep your humidity at a level that mosquitos can't survive in.

3. Treat standing water you can't get rid of - You should always be wary of an empty bucket full of rain water, but for your swimming pools and other bodies of standing water you should make sure there's chlorine or minnows in your water garden that will eat the eggs and prevent the need for our Houston mosquito control experts.

4. Use fans and air movement to throw them off - If you're hosting an event of people, it's a good idea to set up blower fans at ankle level and your ceiling fans. Since mosquitos are so light, they'll blow away easily and avoid places that restrict their movement.

5. Clean out your gutters - If your gutters haven't been cleaned lately, you should be worried about leaves and standing water that isn't draining properly because it will leave the perfect breeding ground that could require mosquito control.

Mosquito Growth Factors

What can cause mosquito populations to explode and grow rapidly? There are several factors. First, depending on the species of mosquito, there needs to be a source of moisture. In some cases, this moisture needs to be something like blood that females can consume to help lay eggs. More often than not, they lay their eggs in standing water, making lakes, ponds, unkempt swimming pools, and even puddles breeding grounds for mosquito populations. Our crew can help you locate any of these mosquito hotspots on your property and suggest methods to help eliminate them.

Finally, mosquitoes also need a food source to keep them alive, and that’s where humans and animals come in. This is one of the reasons why mosquitoes will so often live close to homes, businesses, and other buildings where people frequently are. Spraying these areas with mosquito control chemicals can help keep mosquitoes away and prevent you from having to suffer from painfully itchy bites just from walking outside.

Understanding the Causes of Mosquito Population Growth

Mosquito infestations pose significant health risks and can create various nuisances for individuals and communities. The dangers associated with mosquito infestations stem primarily from their ability to transmit diseases through their bites. 

Here are some of the key dangers of mosquito infestations:

• Transmission of Diseases: Mosquitoes are vectors for numerous diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and chikungunya. These diseases can range from mild to severe and can have long-lasting health implications.
• Risk to Public Health: Mosquito-borne diseases can spread rapidly within populations, posing a significant threat to public health, particularly in regions where healthcare infrastructure may be limited.
• Disruption of Outdoor Activities: Mosquito infestations can disrupt outdoor activities such as gardening, barbecues, and sports, as people are forced indoors to avoid mosquito bites.
• Impact on Livestock: Mosquitoes can also transmit diseases to livestock, leading to economic losses for farmers and affecting food security.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to mosquito bites, resulting in itching, swelling, and discomfort.
• Potential for Secondary Infections: Scratching mosquito bites can break the skin, increasing the risk of secondary bacterial infections.

Efficient mosquito control measures are crucial to mitigate these dangers and protect public health. Through targeted interventions such as habitat reduction, mosquito repellents, and professional pest control services, communities can minimize the risks associated with mosquito infestations and ensure safer environments for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I schedule mosquito treatments?

The frequency of treatments depends on various factors, including the severity of the infestation, weather conditions, and the presence of breeding sites. Our technicians will assess your specific needs and recommend a treatment schedule.

How long do mosquito treatments last?

The duration of a mosquito treatment can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, the severity of the infestation, and the specific products used. Typically, treatments can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

What is the best time of day to apply mosquito repellent?

It's best to apply mosquito repellent before going outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity times, which are typically dawn and dusk.

How can I prevent mosquitoes from entering my home?

To prevent mosquitoes from entering your home:

• Repair any screens or holes in windows and doors.
• Use weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows.
• Keep doors and windows closed, especially during peak mosquito hours.

If you’re tired of your mosquito problem, reach out to the team at Preventive Pest Control for Houston Mosquito Control and our experts will help you come up with the solution you need!