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Why Mosquito Populations Explode In June
June 20, 2018
We all are troubled by the bites and buzzing of mosquitoes each and every summer. Mosquitoes flying around your face while you are trying to enjoy the outdoors can be very annoying, and their incessant buzzing is enough to drive anyone crazy. And, let’s not forget that mosquitoes can be responsible for a variety of illnesses including malaria, chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Zika virus. Many of these diseases are not common, but there is still the potential, and it’s always best not to take the risk.
So why does the mosquito population explode in June? For one thing, there are over 60 species of mosquitoes in Oklahoma. Some emerge as early as March and can stay as late as November, but most of the species prefer warmer temperatures and are more common in April, May, June, and July. Mosquito populations are highly influenced by the weather in our state. Due to the warmer temperatures and the increased moisture from the scattered spring rain, mosquito populations will tend to be larger in June than the rest of the year.
Moisture is a huge draw for mosquitoes, especially during the wet, humid summer months. Mosquitoes are drawn to standing water of any size from small mud puddles all the way up to large ponds. In order to reduce the population of mosquitoes in the summer, you will need to keep standing water in your yard to a minimum. Fix leaky or drippy outdoor faucets that can cause puddling around your foundation; take in or overturn buckets, lids, toys, and other items that might collect any amount of water; and don’t forget to check gutters and downspouts to be sure they are clear of any obstructions that could cause water to collect. Another way to reduce the water in your yard is by adding wood chips or rocks to any low-lying areas on your property to prevent water from pooling. It is also wise to keep your grass as short as possible to limit places where mosquitoes can rest.
If you want to prevent mosquitoes from taking over your yard this summer, you should start now before the season is in full effect. Keeping mosquitoes at bay may require the assistance of a professional pest control company like Montgomery Exterminating in the Tulsa and Grand Lake Regions of Oklahoma. Call us today to learn more about our mosquito control programs and start enjoying a summer without mosquitoes!
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