If there’s one pest that Centerton residents can’t stand dealing with, it’s the mosquito. These small, flying insects bite people and animals to get a blood meal, and they leave behind itchy marks.
While these bites are frustrating, mosquito bites can also be dangerous. Mosquitoes are considered the deadliest animal on the planet because of their ability to transmit diseases from one host to the next. And some of the diseases they spread, including malaria, Zika virus, and encephalitis can be quite serious.
How To Identify Mosquitoes
Dealing with mosquitoes in Centerton is never a fun process, but knowing as much as you can about these pests can help you prevent and control them. The first step to dealing with mosquitoes is to know what they look like as they can look similar to other flying bugs.
You can identify mosquitoes by their thin, long legs and scaled wings. They also have a long nose-like appendage called a proboscis that the females of the species use to drink blood. Both female and male mosquitoes also use this proboscis to feed on plant nectar. Mosquitoes also make a soft but distinct buzzing sound.
Mosquitoes and Essential Oils
Many people don’t want to use bug repellents and insecticides that use chemicals, so some property owners have turned to essential oils as a way of dealing with mosquitoes. However, there is a lot of debate on whether this is effective or not.
Overall, using essential oils, or even bug repellants at the store, might keep mosquitoes from biting you, but these methods won’t remove the infestation. However, certain smells do tend to attract mosquitoes while other smells repel them. For example, sweet-smelling food and drink, including alcohol, as well as body odor can attract mosquitoes.
Some scents, including citronella, are known to put off mosquitoes, which is why it is so often included in things like candles and other products to keep mosquitoes away from an area.
What Essential Oils Can Repel Mosquitoes?
Keep in mind that more research needs to be done on the oils listed here and that using this DIY method of mosquito control is really just a temporary measure. However, if you would prefer to try essential oils instead of more traditional sprays, there is some indication that scents such as lavender, peppermint, basil, and eucalyptus keep them at bay.
Also, always do your research when using essential oils. Often, it’s best to mix the essential oil with water or some other neutralizing agent. It’s also always a good idea to check with a healthcare professional before trying a new product on your skin.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Mosquitoes?
You can help keep mosquitoes out of your yard by doing things like removing standing water and trimming excess vegetation, but the overall best and most effective way to control mosquitoes is to get professional assistance from the experts at Alder Pest Control.
Most DIY methods, whether they be more natural or whether they are chemical-based, are only temporary measures, and you’ll still be left dealing with mosquitoes and potentially putting yourself and your family at risk moving forward. Let our expert team offer the prevention and removal services you’re looking for.
Give us a call today at (479) 269-4373 to learn more about our residential pest control plans or to schedule your free inspection.
