Texans love Houston’s subtropical climate and year-round sunshine. However, the high humidity and warm temperatures make this Texas city the perfect environment for mosquitoes to thrive. It’s no surprise that Houston ranks as one of the most mosquito-infested cities in the U.S., making mosquito infestations a potential issue for all Houston property owners.
Our long mosquito season — beginning in March and ending in October — means that a mosquito infestation isn’t going to go away any time soon. And infestations can extend beyond being just a nuisance, as these insects can be the carriers of multiple diseases like dengue, malaria, Zika Virus, and more.
Common Mosquitoes in Houston, TX
There are over 3000 mosquito species on Earth, and about 200 inhabit the U.S., all of which have different habits and behaviors. Some of the most common types of mosquitoes found in Houston include:
Asian Tiger Mosquito
The Asian Tiger Mosquito feeds on the blood of humans, domestic animals like dogs and cats, and birds. It is known to carry more than 30 viruses and deadly diseases, including Yellow Fever and the West Nile virus. The type of mosquito can behave very aggressively, with the female mosquito often biting the victim multiple times. It is identifiable by its small, black body featuring white stripes running along the back of its head.
Common House Mosquito
The Common House Mosquito is the most pervasive mosquito species in America. It feeds on the blood of humans and animals, transmitting diseases like the West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis, and, to canines, heartworm. While it is most active at night, only the female dines on human blood, after which it lays eggs in stagnant water like that in ponds. It has an inconspicuous appearance, which might seem grayish-white or light brown, and hunts by detecting the body heat of humans.
Common Malaria Mosquito
The Common Malaria Mosquito is the primary vector of malaria and may also transmit West Nile disease. It is large in size, and feeds on mammals, including humans, rendering its presence a health hazard. It has a brownish black body, and the most identifiable trait of this type of mosquito is its unique resting position, whereby its abdomen sticks upwards instead of lying flat on the surface. The female typically lays about 200 eggs on water surfaces where there is mild vegetation.
Yellow Fever Mosquito
The Yellow Fever Mosquito is the chief vector of Yellow Fever and might also spread dengue and Zika virus. It typically lives in containers like flowerpots, buckets, spare tires, and vases. It is most active during the day, especially during dawn and late afternoon. Small in size, it has a black and white pattern on its legs. It prefers to live and breed near stagnant water which puts it in close contact with humans.
Effective Mosquito Prevention
Living around mosquitoes is a health risk to you and your family. A bite from these insects can be worse than an itchy bump — their prick can cause a fatal disease. Adopting the necessary precautions is imperative and will prevent an infestation in your home. The following are some tips to protect your home from mosquitoes.
Get Rid of Any Stagnant Water
Standing water is the primary habitat for female mosquitoes to lay their larvae. It is crucial to eliminate stagnant water sources, such as flower pots, birdbaths, or any other outdoor containers that may fill up with rainwater.
Control Humidity
Mosquitoes can also reproduce on wet surfaces. Prevent damp areas by repairing plumbing leaks and damaged or obstructed gutters.
Try To Limit the Vegetation Around Your Home
Mosquitoes typically hide and rest in protected sites during the daytime. If your yard has lots of trees, thick shrubbery, and other dense vegetation, it will make a welcome attraction to mosquitoes.
Introduce Mosquito-Resistant Plants
Several plants contain essential oils whose scents repel mosquitoes. Basil, rosemary, catnip, lavender, citronella, and marigolds can all protect your home from mosquitoes.
Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites
There are a few ways you can protect yourself from mosquito bites when spending time outside.
- Spray yourself with bug repellents that contain DEET
- Set up outdoor electric fans to disrupt mosquitoes’ flight patterns
- Wear light-colored clothing, as mosquitoes are attracted to darker colors, and long sleeves and pants to limit skin exposure
- Avoid drinking alcohol or using perfume, as their smells will attract mosquitoes.
All of these tips can help prevent mosquito bites.
Consider Seasonal Mosquito Treatments
Seek seasonal mosquito treatments to reduce the mosquito population in your yard. Stampede Pest Control offers effective treatments to help you prepare for the mosquito season in Houston by eliminating them during the larva stage.
When To Seek Professional Mosquito Control
If you’re experiencing an increasing number of mosquitoes on your property it is vital to seek out the help of a professional. Early detection and treatment can help avoid mosquito bites that may lead to serious and deadly diseases these pesky insects carry.
Stampede’s Mosquito Control Program is proven to be effective for the long-term protection of you, your family, and your pets against mosquitoes. Talk to our expert mosquito exterminators to find out more about our services!