We are aware that mosquitoes can be a pain and spoil our outside activities, but they also provide a much greater risk. In fact, because of the diseases they may spread, mosquitoes are among the deadliest animals in the world. Mosquitoes are responsible for the spread of numerous diseases, including West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. In the United States, there are 12 genera and roughly 176 species of mosquitoes. Below are the three main species that are responsible for disease transmission and painful, itching bites.

The Anopheles mosquito, better known as the malaria mosquito, can be found in every continent except for Antarctica. As you can guess from the name, this mosquito is known universally for being the primary vector of malaria. The Anopheles mosquito is also responsible for transmitting heartworm disease to animals. The female malaria mosquito can lay her eggs in a wide range of locations, including inground pools, small streams, freshwater marshes and any other place with clean, slow-moving water. The Anopheles mosquito is most active at two times: just before dawn and right after darkness sets. An interesting fact about the malaria mosquito is that they can still be found in areas where malaria has been eradicated, because the parasite that spreads the disease has been eliminated, not the mosquito itself.

The Aedes mosquito was originally found in tropical and subtropical zones, but can now also be found in all countries except Antarctica. They are visually distinctive because they have noticeable black and white markings on their bodies and legs. The Aedes mosquito is also unique in that they are active and bite only during the daytime, mostly early in the morning and in the evening before dusk. Some of the biggest culprits in the Aedes genus include:

The common house mosquito gets its name from its typical behavioral pattern – coming into your house and biting you between sunset and sunrise, disrupting your night with multiple itchy, painful bites. The Culex mosquitoes are weak flyers and do not fly very far from where they develop as larvae. Their adult lives are short, rarely more than 15 days. An interesting fact about these mosquitoes is that unlike other mosquitoes that die when the winter months arrive, the house mosquito can hibernate during winter in protected places like sewers, crawlspaces and basements.

Fortunately, 24/7 Local Pest Control is here to help you rid your yard of any mosquito that is ruining your outdoor fun, as well as protect you from mosquito-borne illnesses. Here are a few ways you can help make sure mosquitoes don’t call your yard home:

From barrier treatments, all-natural treatments, special events and more, we can provide many different mosquito control options that best fit your needs. Our team is built of mosquito control experts and we’re here to help eliminate mosquito breeding grounds on your property. If you would like more information on how we can eliminate these pesky mosquitoes so you can get back to enjoying your yard, find your 24/7 Local Pest Control and give them a call today!