Mosquitoes: information and resources

Mosquitoes go through four stages in their life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The egg stage lasts about two to three days, after which the larvae hatch. During the larval stage, the mosquito lives in water and molts several times as it grows. After about a week, the larva transforms into a pupa, during which it does not feed and is relatively inactive. Finally, the adult mosquito emerges from the pupa, and the cycle starts anew. The average lifespan of a mosquito is around two to three weeks, but some species can live for up to a month.

These tiny pests typically feed on nectar and other plant juices to get the necessary sugar and nutrients. However, the female mosquito requires a blood meal to produce eggs. They use their proboscis to pierce the skin of animals, including humans, and then suck the blood. Males do not feed on blood and only feed on plant juices.

The mosquito species are highly adaptable creatures that can thrive in a variety of environments. These tiny insects can be found in various habitats, from wetlands and swamps to urban areas and even deserts. They are attracted to areas with high humidity and temperatures, making warm and damp environments ideal for their growth and reproduction. They require a source of standing water to lay their eggs, and for the larvae to develop, so they are commonly found near bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. In urban areas, these pests can breed in standing water sources such as bird baths, flower pots, and gutters.

A mosquito can be attracted to various factors, including body heat, carbon dioxide, and lactic acid. They are also attracted to certain fragrances, such as perfumes, scented lotions, and dark-colored clothing. 

Mosquito bites are itchy because when a mosquito bites a person, it injects saliva into the skin, which contains several foreign substances, including an anticoagulant to prevent blood clotting. The body's immune system recognizes these foreign substances and reacts by releasing histamines, which cause itchiness, redness, and swelling around the bite area. The severity of the reaction to mosquito bites varies from person to person.

Mosquito season can vary depending on the location and climate. In general, mosquito season starts in the spring or early summer when temperatures warm up and lasts until the fall or first frost. In some areas, mosquito season may start earlier or last longer due to warmer temperatures.

Professional mosquito control is the most effective way to eliminate these pesky insects. Our professional mosquito control services are designed to provide effective and long-lasting solutions for reducing mosquito populations. Our trained technicians use specialized equipment and products to target these biting pests and reduce their population, ensuring your property remains protected.