The Three Types Of Mosquitoes Common In Atlanta
There are three species of mosquitoes that call our area home: the Aedes mosquito, the Culex mosquito, and the Anopheles mosquito. These three types of mosquitoes are slightly different in size and color. They do, however, share the same main features, which include a small body, thin abdomen, thin, oval-shaped wings, long legs, and a needle-like mouth. Females have a sharp proboscis (mouth) that allows them to pierce the skin of humans and animals. A male's proboscis is not sharp and is mainly used to gather nectar from plants. You are more likely to have trouble with mosquitoes on your property during the summer months as this is when they are most active and have had more of a chance to breed.
Different Mosquitoes Spread Different Diseases
One thing that sets apart the different kinds of mosquitoes in Atlanta is the different kinds of diseases they spread. Culex mosquitoes are known for spreading West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, and Japanese encephalitis. Anopheles mosquitoes mainly spread malaria and are one of the most dangerous species around the globe for this reason. Finally, Aedes mosquitoes spread the Dengue virus, Yellow Fever virus, Chikungunya virus, and Zika virus. The good news is that in America, these diseases are all easily treatable. This doesn’t, however, make them any more comfortable or medical bills less expensive. The only way to avoid contracting a disease from one of these pests is to avoid their bites entirely.
Simple And Effective Prevention Tips For All Mosquito Species
If you would like to avoid mosquito-borne diseases here in Atlanta, we recommend starting with some prevention tips. Here are a few simple and effective options to start with.
- Check your property after it rains for sources or water build-up. Eliminate as many of these sources as possible.
- Make sure your gutters are clean and in good working condition.
- Change the water inside birdbaths, ornate pools, and other decorative water features on your property once every four to five days.
- Install fans inside covered outdoor lounging areas.
- Wear light-colored clothing and apply mosquito spray with DEET before spending time outdoors.
Although helpful, using DIY methods to prevent mosquitoes will not guarantee your protection. The best way to avoid bites here in Atlanta is to invest in a year-round mosquito control program.
The Most Effective Way To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Home
At Tuxedo Mosquito Control, we know how to get rid of mosquitoes. The two main options we offer to get rid of mosquitoes are misting systems and spray treatments. Misting systems are our most popular service as they offer a permanent solution to the problem. All they require is occasional refills and a flick of a switch. Spray treatments are equally as effective but require monthly retreatments to remain active. Both have their benefits and will help you avoid bites this summer.
Call us now to find out what mosquito control in Atlanta is supposed to look like and get the treatment you deserve.