When Are Mosquitoes the Worst?

Mosquitoes are one of the most annoying pests. For many, the thought of spending time outside when mosquitoes are present is enough to make them stay indoors. Knowing when mosquitoes are most active can help you avoid them and their itchy bites. Here’s what you need to know about when mosquitoes are the worst.

When Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Mosquitoes generally become most active at dawn, dusk, and during the night. That’s because they prefer cooler temperatures and shade, so they’re often found near water sources or in wooded areas.

In addition to the changing temperature, mosquitoes are also attracted by certain scents, such as human sweat and carbon dioxide. The warmer the weather gets, the worse it can be for your mosquito problem.

Unfortunately, mosquitoes don’t just come out in the summer. Even during cold winter months, there are plenty of species that can survive the chill. Many start reproducing as soon as the weather allows, so you’ll likely find a large population of mosquitoes even during the wintertime.

If you want to escape mosquitoes, you should avoid being outside when they’re most active.

Go outside in the morning or late afternoon, and you’ll likely find fewer mosquitoes buzzing around than in the evening. You can also protect yourself by wearing light-colored clothing and wearing bug repellent.

Worst Times for Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes seem most active when the temperature is between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually means that summer months are the worst for mosquitoes, but it can also depend on where you live.

In some areas, mosquitoes can also be a problem throughout the spring and fall months.

Tips for Dealing with Mosquitoes

If you’re dealing with a mosquito problem, there are several things you can do to reduce their numbers.

1. Avoid Water

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in still water, so standing water should be emptied or covered. If a pond is nearby, consider stocking it with mosquito-eating fish. Look around your home and yard for any sources of standing water, such as buckets, tires, or even bird baths.

If you have flower pots with soil, empty their excess water after watering.

You can also use mosquito traps or invest in a mosquito fogging system to keep your yard free of mosquitoes for weeks.

2. Keep Your Yard Tidy

Mosquitoes are attracted to dense vegetation and piles of organic debris. Ensure your lawn is trimmed, weeds are pulled, and leaves and grass clippings are removed.

Keep your bushes, flower beds, and garden areas free of clippings and debris. This will make your outside space less attractive to mosquitoes and reduce the number of potential breeding sites.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

Wear protective apparel such as long sleeves and pants when you’re outdoors. Light colors are less attractive to mosquitoes, so that’s another thing to consider when choosing clothes.

Additionally, you can spray your clothes with safe insect repellent to protect yourself further.

4. Use Repellents

Repellents are a great way to keep mosquitoes away. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are all effective in keeping mosquitoes out of your yard. DEET and picaridin are the best options because they provide long-lasting protection. But they can be unpleasant and could irritate sensitive skin.

The oil of lemon eucalyptus is an excellent alternative for those who want something less harsh. When applying repellents, follow the instructions on the label and avoid spraying directly onto your face or skin.

Some DIY-repellent recipes include a mixture of essential oils or garlic oil. You can also purchase citronella candles and tiki torches to burn in your yard.

When to Contact Pest Control

For more severe mosquito infestations, you may need to contact a pest control company.

Van Den Berge Pest Control has been voted the Best of West Michigan Pest Control companies for eight consecutive years. Contact them at 616-392-7367 to get rid of your mosquito problem for good.

No matter how many steps you take to reduce the number of mosquitoes on your property, there will always be a chance of them returning. By enlisting the help of Van Den Berge Pest Control, you can be sure your backyard is mosquito-free.

So don’t wait; contact them today and enjoy your outdoor space without pesky mosquitoes!