Do you know the role that water plays in mosquito population growth?
It all starts with the mosquito life cycle; three of the four life stages take place in water. Without water, Louisville mosquito populations cannot grow and spread. While lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams are what comes to the top of your mind, you might be surprised to learn that hidden sources of standing water right in your own yard foster more mosquito growth than the former.
Standing Water Elimination
Mosquitoes prefer standing water. The key point being standing. Small sources of water collected from the last rainfall and swamps are the key source of life for mosquitoes in Louisville. They cannot sustain in larger moving bodies of water due to other wildlife (predators) and too much water movement.
Mosquito Source Reduction
Echoing the University of Kentucky, we all need to our part to ensure our streets, neighborhoods, and city are not a mosquito haven by following source reduction methods. By eliminating places where mosquitoes can successfully lay eggs that will survive into adulthood, we can lower the overall mosquito population. A vital team effort for reducing our risks for mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus.
How to eliminate mosquito sources from your yard:
At Mosquito Squad of Louisville, we offer the 5 T’s of mosquito control. Tip, Toss, Turn, Remove Tarps, and Treat – an easy way to remember to tip over items that could collect water including tarps and cleaning up yard debris.
The University of Kentucky takes it a step further with a reminder about specific and sometimes overlooked items that require your attention:
- Areas in your yard that can puddle need to be filled in and leveled.
- Keep water gardens or ornamental ponds stocked with fish to eat mosquito larvae.
- Check ditches and sewer drains for proper drainage – clearing debris if necessary.
- Fix leaky faucets and hoses.
- Encourage insect-eating birds and animals to come into your yard.
If everyone does their part to eliminate the source of mosquito population growth, we can all enjoy a more care-free outdoor lifestyle. Be sure to spread the word to your neighbors, friends, and family to help protect us all. If you’re ready to take your mosquito control efforts to the next level, call Mosquito Squad of Louisville for a free quote on season-long mosquito control for your home.