Summer is in full swing in Austin, which means the mosquitoes aren’t far behind. While everyone knows that mosquitoes are a nuisance, you may not realize there are different types of mosquitoes around your home. Because different breeds of mosquito are attracted to different things, it’s important to know what kinds of mosquitoes you may be dealing with. Texas is home to 85 species of mosquitoes, but there are only a few that you should keep an eye out for.
Culex Mosquito
This genus includes several different species that all behave in a similar way. Culex mosquitoes are quite small and, like most other species, prefer warm, wet habitats. Because the females can lay up to 300 eggs at a time, these pests can quickly overrun a community.
It’s important to note that these mosquitoes are carriers of several deadly viruses, including West Nile and avian influenza.
The best way to reduce the chances of Culex mosquitoes breeding around your home is to keep your yard as dry as possible. The eggs and larvae cannot survive without an adequate water source, so eliminate any standing water.
Aedes Mosquito
This family of mosquitoes is one of the most common in the United States. Unlike the Culex mosquitoes that must lay their eggs in water, Aedes mosquitoes will lay their eggs anywhere that is damp enough and prefer to breed near stagnant water. This includes wet soil or marshy areas around bodies of water like creeks and ponds.
The Aedes genus is most active during the day. Most of their feeding happens in the mornings and early evenings, rather than in the midday heat. The Aedes aegypti is one of the better-known species of this family, as it has been identified as a primary transmitter of Zika virus. These mosquitoes are also responsible for yellow fever and dengue.
To help control the spread of Aedes mosquitoes, keep your yard and home as dry as possible. Once a week, check for eggs stuck to surfaces of any wet containers or spots that tend to stay moist and discard them in a sealed container.
Asian Tiger Mosquito
Unlike the other species mentioned so far, this breed of mosquito prefers the heat of the day, which means you’re most susceptible to bites in the afternoon and evening. They will feed on mammals, reptiles, birds and humans, which means they are dangerous potential carriers of a host of illnesses.
These mosquitoes can be found most often in forests or thick stands of trees.
To keep your home and family safe from these pests, contact Mosquitonix Austin for a consultation and treatment options. Mosquitonix Austin will make sure your family can enjoy the yard all summer long.
