Mosquitoes are notoriously known for harassing Martha’s Vineyard locals. They can be easy to identify as they are a common summer and fall pest. With hair-like scales that cover their bodies, a long proboscis, mosquitoes feature one pair of wings. The proboscis is made up of mouthparts and they are designed to suck up fluids. The mosquitoes can be different colors ranging from pale brown with whitish bands to bright whitish markings down their abdomens, or even black with white stripes across both its body and legs, depending on the species. Also, depending on the species, their sizes range from ¼”-1/2” in length. To elaborate on mosquitoes and mosquito control, we at Fragosa Landscaping would like to share some information to keep these pests away from your loved ones.
Mosquito Lifecycle
Within their natural lifespan, mosquitoes have 4 life stages. Starting as an egg and ending in adulthood, females will lay eggs, totaling between 100-300 eggs at a time. Eggs are commonly deposited on either the surface of standing water or on the ground in areas that regularly flood. They need as little of an inch of water is all it takes for a mosquito to lay her eggs. Eggs need water to hatch and they will hatch in 2-3 days. Earning the nickname wigglers, the larvae emerge, once hatched, and they stay in the water and wiggle to swim. Typically, they hang from the surface of the water and breathe through tubes. Larvae shed their skin and develop into pupae, and in about a week as they feed on organic matter in the water. Making them the easiest time to destroy them, using oils to block their breathing or bacteria to poison the larvae. Known as tumblers, in the pupae stage, they will tumble into the deepest part of the water when predators are threatening them. With the head at one end and tiny flippers at the other, they are shaped like commas since they are partially encased in cocoons. They do breathe through tubes while developing, the pupae do not feed. The pupae become adults in about 4 days. After adult mosquitoes climb out of the water and dry, males will develop the reproductive organs for the next day or two and then seek out a mate. Feeding on fruit and plant nectar, males live 3-5 days. After a feeding on a host for blood, the females need to mate once where she can lay eggs the rest of their life, which is about a month or 2.
How to Deter Mosquitoes
Apply the following steps to deter mosquitoes:
1) Remove standing water: Items that collect rain, sprinkler, or pool water are potential nurseries for mosquitoes, remove old tires, birdfeeders, wheelbarrows, flowerpots, and buckets. This helps avoid females laying eggs close by.
2) Maintain clean gutters: Giving mosquitoes an opportunity to lay their eggs there, clogged gutters with leaves, sticks, dirt, and other debris prevent waterflow. To avoid mosquito attraction, routinely clean your gutters.
3) Level out the ground: Water pools in low levels in the landscaping. Fill in any areas that collect water regularly and maintain the level ground.
4) Repair or replace window screens: Be sure that you have a 16-18 mesh that is the recommended size for pest control installed on the windows or around the doors and patios for added protection to keep the mosquitoes from wondering indoors.
5) Fix any leaks and cracks: Also, to avoid standing water, prevent entry, seal any cracks in the structure or foundation and repair any leaks.
6) Call a professional: For effective mosquito control services to keep you and your family safe from the mosquitoes, call Fragosa Landscaping.
All Natural Mosquito Control, Bee Safe Organic Land & Lawn Care Treatments in Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven & West Tisbury, Massachusetts
The quicker you address a mosquito issue, the easier it is to control — so it is best to not wait for populations to increase. Take action and stay consistent with the professionals at Fragosa Landscaping to ensure your home stays clear of mosquitoes and ticks. Our natural mosquito and tick control and prevention services are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical pest control programs. Call us today to get started.
