Hot Weather + Heavy Rain = New Orleans Mosquitoes

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June 12, 2014

Mosquitoes . . . those annoying little blood suckers! If you haven’t been a target of hungry mosquitoes yet this summer, just wait! Because of the excessively warm weather coupled with heavy rains in the New Orleans area, the setting is right for an explosion in the mosquito population in our area.

While local governments work to combat the problem, budget cuts have had an impact on spraying frequency and, in some cases, eliminated mosquito spraying completely. West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes which is another reason to take action to prevent them. Here is more info on mosquito borne diseases.

According to Chris Caire, Vice President of DA Exterminating, “There are a number of things a homeowner can do to prevent mosquitoes. Local yards are ripe with opportunities for mosquito breeding but with a little effort, you can have a big impact on the mosquito population around your yard.”

  • Change birdbath water every two weeks. Mosquitoes breed and develop in just two weeks so replacing water in birdbaths goes a long way in preventing theses pesky creatures.
  • Purchase “dunks” – small donut-shaped material to float in fountains and ponds to prevent mosquito larva from developing into biting adults.

Check the following for standing water and remove it!

  • Roof gutters that are plugged with leaves and holding water
  • Pet dishes
  • Saucers under potted plants
  • Trash or “spare items” such as children’s toys
  • Old tires
  • Rain or irrigation barrels
  • Unused or poorly maintained pools
  • Boats or trailers, dry docked or unused
  • Water gardens
  • Fountains
  • Open septic tanks
  • Bottles, jars, cans
  • Buckets, pails
  • Flower pots, urns
  • Garbage cans, lids
  • Grills
  • Garden equipment
  • Sandbox, wading pool
  • Storm drains

If you must be outside during mosquito season, here are some ways to keep from getting bitten.

  • Mosquitoes rest in the shade so avoid those areas.
  • Schedule your activities at any time but dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are active.
  • Light your deck or patio using yellow “Bug Lights”. These lights are not repellant, but they do not attract mosquitoes like other incandescent lights.
  • Mosquitoes are relatively weak fliers, so placing a large fan on your deck or patio can provide an effective low-tech solution.
  • Wear protective clothing such as long pants and long sleeve shirts when outdoors.
  • Use insect repellents containing DEET.
  • Repair door and window screens.
  • Eliminate standing water on your property.

FINALLY, call DA Exterminating for our Total Home Protection that includes mosquito treatments.