If you have spent any amount of time in the Georgia area, chances are you are familiar with the presence of mosquito activity. With tiny bodies, buzzing wings, and a sharp proboscis, mosquitoes in Atlanta outnumber the human population by more than 100 to one. According to scientists, there are 63 species of mosquito common to Atlanta. However, only 10 or 12 of these species cause problems for humans and their pets.
Below are just a few problematic mosquito species in the Atlanta area:
- Asian tiger mosquito
- Yellow fever mosquito
- Common house mosquito
Almost everyone in Atlanta knows that mosquitoes feed on blood, cause itchy bites, and sometimes be very dangerous. However, various internet myths surrounding these predatory pests still exist. Let’s dispel some of the most common mosquito myths below.
Checking The Facts About Atlanta’s Most Common Mosquito Myths
Myth: All mosquitoes will bite humans.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, only female mosquitoes bite human beings. This is due to their need for blood proteins to reproduce and fertilize their eggs successfully. As a side note, many different species of mosquito do not bite humans at all. The vast majority of them feed on plants, nectar, and other juices.
Myth: People with fair skin are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes.
Fact: People with fair skin indeed tend to have a more obvious reaction to mosquito bites. However, they are no more likely to be bitten than any other demographic. Mosquitoes do respond to other factors, such as clothing color, alcohol levels, and pregnancy.
Myth: All mosquitoes carry diseases.
Fact: Thankfully, only a tiny percentage of mosquitoes harbor dangerous diseases. The rate of disease in your area may be higher or lower depending on certain factors, including the rate of breeding, population health, and time of year.
You are not likely to receive a serious mosquito illness from just one or two mosquito bites. However, it is still a possibility. If you think or know that you are experiencing signs of a mosquito-borne illness, reach out to a medical professional.
Myth: Attracting bats to your property is an effective way to reduce mosquito populations.
Fact: Bats eat mosquito populations around the Atlanta area, although they make inferior pest control professionals. In fact, mosquitoes make up a tiny percentage of the bat's diet. When given the opportunity, they prefer beetles, cicadas, and moths.
Myth: Mosquito control can be handled on my own. I don’t need to call a professional company.
Fact: Home do-it-yourself (DIY) is a great first defense against mosquito populations, but it should never be your last. That’s why the best way to keep serious mosquito populations down is with assistance from the experts at Tuxedo Mosquito Control.
The Tuxedo Mosquito Control Promise
As a family-owned company in the Atlanta, GA area, Tuxedo Mosquito Control believes in putting the needs of our clients at the forefront of our business. Twenty years in the mosquito control industry has taught us that education and professionalism is the best possible preventative measure against overwhelming infestations. Whether you’re struggling against a cyclical infestation or a newly discovered threat, know that Tuxedo Mosquito Control has your back – no matter what!
Call our office to speak with a qualified representative about your Atlanta mosquito control options. We’ll be happy to provide a free quote for all our mosquito misting solutions!