Did you know that there are more than 175 different species of mosquitoes in the US? They are not only a nuisance, but they can also spread harmful infections. You and your family will be able to stay safe and make the most of your outdoor experiences by being aware of these annoying little critters' peak activity times and locations.

Mosquito season refers to the time of year when mosquitoes are most active. This term really only applies to regions where temperatures become too cold for mosquitoes to survive. In general, all species of mosquitoes prefer warm weather, typically above 50 degrees. So, when temperatures rise above 50 degrees in your location, mosquito season begins. When they dip below 50 degrees, the season is coming to a close.

Different species of mosquitoes have different lifecycles and habitats. In some locations, where a change in temperature follows from winter into spring, some mosquito species will emerge from hibernation while others are born from eggs that had been laid the previous year. In regions where there isn’t a drastic change in temperature, mosquitoes are around all year round.

Did you know that female mosquitoes are responsible for all of the bites that humans experience? They need blood in order to lay their eggs.

All mosquitoes need water to breed and lay eggs. Female mosquitoes will lay their eggs in anything that has standing water: ponds, planters, birdbaths and even rain gutters. Because mosquitoes usually only travel a few hundred feet from their breeding sites, keeping these areas clear and dry will help to reduce the population in your yard.

Mosquitoes are most active during early morning hours before the sun has fully come up and the air temperature isn’t as hot. Mosquitoes find daylight to be deadly, as direct daylight can dehydrate them.

For this reason, shaded woods, wetlands, and ponds—the most common locations that mosquitoes seek out for protection from the sun—are places to avoid during the day. Mosquitoes become active again during the evening hours when the sun isn’t as hot. If you’re going to engage in physical activity (e.g., running, biking, hiking) it is best to avoid these times.

Staying away from mosquitoes at all times is not only impossible, but also impractical. Below, however, are a few tips for keeping them at bay:

The surest way to take back your backyard from these dangerous biting insects is to contact 24/7 Local Pest Control for seasonal mosquito treatments for your yard. Our barrier sprays not only repel mosquitoes, but are also effective on other pests, such as ticks, fleas, and some flies.