Mosquitos are a pest that no one wants around their home. These stinging pests can transmit dangerous diseases and be difficult to get rid of. Unfortunately, the warm and humid climate of Florida is a mosquito’s dream. With plenty of water and food sources for mosquitoes to enjoy, these nuisance pests breed rapidly and always seem to be around. But what attracts them to begin with and what steps can be taken to enjoy a mosquito-free summer?
Different Species of Mosquitoes in Tampa
There are over 3,000 different species of mosquitoes around the world, but only about 176 species are found in North America. Different areas of the United States will have different types of mosquito species to handle. Some species carry diseases, while others don’t. In Tampa, one of the most common species is the yellow fever mosquito, which is known to carry diseases. Additional common species found in the Tampa area are:
- Asian tiger mosquito
- Southern house mosquito
- Black salt marsh mosquito
Dangerous Species of Mosquitoes
The various mosquitoes found in Florida have the ability to transmit diseases to humans and animals. But the yellow fever mosquito is one of the most dangerous mosquito species. These mosquitoes have the ability to transmit malaria, Zika virus, and yellow fever to name a few. These mosquitoes are commonly found all over the United States, including Florida and the Tampa area.
Adult yellow fever mosquitoes are about 4 to 7 millimeters in length, females being larger than the males. On the top of their bodies, there is a white pattern and white bands around their legs. Male yellow fever mosquitoes will have longer antennas, while females have short hairs in place.
What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are most active in the summer, as the heat and humidity is paradise for them. The swamp areas of Tampa are a particularly popular breeding ground for mosquitoes. They search for standing water or damp soil to lay their eggs on.
The Diet of Mosquitoes
With a variation in their diets, male and female mosquitoes thrive in areas with plants and vegetation that are close to humans and animals. Female mosquitoes must feed off of human or animal blood, as they need blood to produce eggs. In fact, a female mosquito can eat up to three times her weight in blood.
However, mosquitos feast on more than just blood. Both male and female mosquitoes also feed on plant nectar. The natural sugars of flowering plants provide them with energy. While they love flower beds, mosquitoes are not only attracted to flowers. The pests are also attracted to floral scented products like soaps and perfumes.
Natural Predators of Mosquitoes
Fortunately, there are natural predators for mosquitoes. In the Florida area, there are several native animals and fish that like to snack on these pesky bugs. Birds, bats, frogs, spiders, and dragonflies are common predators and will happily devour any adult mosquitoes they come across.
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes
Since mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, check your property for any standing water. Common areas for mosquitoes to lay eggs are birdbaths, spare tires, gutters, and other areas around the home that have standing water. To help prevent mosquitoes breeding, be sure to:
- Wash out your bird baths once a week
- Clean out your gutters and unclog them
- Turn tires upright to drain water
- Check other areas for proper drainage
While bug zappers and citronella candles can help deter mosquitoes, for highly effective solutions, insecticides and mosquito repellant are a good option. If you’ve taken all the steps you can and are still dealing with mosquitoes, rely on the professionals at Critter Control® of Tampa to rid your home or business of the nuisance pests.
Leave effective mosquito control to the professionals at Critter Control® of Tampa.
Effective Residential and Commercial Mosquito Control Services
Critter Control® of Tampa offers both home and commercial mosquito control. Our In2Care system breaks the mosquito breeding cycle and discourages the pests from hanging around. To prevent a mosquito infestation, we will place traps around the exterior of your home to attract unwanted mosquitoes. Our minimally invasive, eco-friendly system does not involve toxic fogging and is safe to be placed anywhere around your home or business. For fast and affordable mosquito relief, call Critter Control® of Tampa today at (813) 328-6646 to schedule an inspection of your home or business and receive a free estimate for our effective mosquito control services.
