Mosquito

Mosquitos are, unfortunately, a common issue in our area, especially when we have lots of moisture. While a mosquito bite is usually a temporary irritation, it can transmit various human and animal diseases, which we should avoid. Mosquitoes are small primitive flies that breed near standing water. They depend entirely on water as they grow in their first few life stages. The entire process from egg to adult can take as little as 7 to 10 days, depending on the species. Female mosquitoes are the only mosquitoes that feed on blood, and usually, they must have a meal before being able to lay eggs.
Many mosquito breeding sites can be traced to backyard containers filled with water, ponds, and other standing water.

One of the easiest ways to reduce your mosquito population is to dump out toys, pots, bird feeders, etc, every couple of days to prevent mosquitoes from using it as a breeding ground. Unfortunately, this must be a community effort as mosquitoes can travel up to half a mile looking for a meal. If you can’t get rid of all the standing water in your backyard, water treatment can prevent mosquito larvae from growing. There are a variety of products that are available to reduce the mosquito population. Mosquito foggers can be used to relieve mosquitos temporarily for an evening, and bug zappers and other mosquito-trapping devices can work to reduce the population. Use sprays with caution because they can harm beneficial insects as well. When outside, try to wear long sleeves, especially early in the morning or at night, and use a repellent.

 

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu