How To Protect Yourself From West Palm Beach Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are flying insects that exist in more than 3,000 types throughout most areas of the world. These winged pests have antennae capable of detecting the carbon monoxide we generate, eyes that can detect movement, and long legs. Both males and females consume types of nectar and juices that exist in plants. However, females also use their proboscis to pierce the skin of humans or animals to ingest blood needed for proteins used in egg production.

The two most common types in this region include the Aedes aegypti and the Aedes taeniorhynchus mosquito, which both flourish in humid climate. The Aedes aegypti, or yellow fever mosquito, has a brown or black body with white striped rear legs. The yellow fever mosquito generally prefers to feed on human blood. The Aedes taeniorhynchus, or salt marsh mosquito, has a brown body with grayish patches on its sides. It also aggressively seeks human blood. While most mosquito bites result in red, itchy, and irritating patches of skin, these pests can also pose serious health risks. Mosquitoes are known to carry the West Nile virus, the Zika virus, encephalitis, and other dangerous pathogens. 

What Factors And Conditions Attract Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are very active in areas near standing water, because females typically lay their eggs on or near pooled water. Often, multiple eggs form attached floating groups on the water. As these eggs develop, they pass through stages of development as larva and pupa, before reaching adulthood. Studies indicate that mosquitoes are attracted to certain blood types, such as type O. 

Best Ways To Prevent Them

Eliminating standing water is critical. Clear the yard of buckets, flower pots, kiddie pools, or other items that can hold water. Maintain gutters and downspouts to route water away from the structure, and regularly refresh the water in bird baths that might contain eggs. 

Methods To Avoid Getting Bitten

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants to keep the skin covered. 
• Avoid outdoor activities in the dusk and dawn hours of the day when mosquitoes are most active.
• Apply CDC-approved insect repellents, such as Picaridin or IR3535, to exposed areas of skin.
• Do not wear strongly-scented fragrances or lotions.

Do I Need A Professional Pest Controller? 

Many property owners make the mistake of purchasing mass-market do-it-yourself home treatment options, such as foggers, traps, and concentrated liquid formulas, that are often sold using exaggerated claims of effectiveness. The vast majority of these products create mediocre results that create further frustration, and might contain harmful agents. The best course of action is to reach a local pest control professional for a detailed inspection to assess the problem, and propose the proper solutions.

At Native Pest Management, we recognize the importance of safety, and use many of the industry-leading products and treatment methods. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach ensures that our customers, their pets, and our local West Palm Beach ecosystem are free from any potential harm. IPM involves creating a comprehensive plan that addresses serious pest-related concerns without using harmful chemicals. 

Leading Provider Of Pest Extermination Services In West Palm Beach

Did you know that the local team of experts with Native Pest Management has been creating positive outcomes for customers throughout this region that are faced with concerns, such as intrusions from ants, mosquitoes, rodents, and many other potentially dangerous pests? We operate according to the current best practices for eliminating these critters from both home and business environments.

Part of our long track record of success is attributed to a firm commitment to delivering high-quality customer service. We encourage you to contact our office today for a detailed interior and exterior property inspection, and a no-obligation estimate of our mosquito control services.