Mosquitoes are a common nuisance in many parts of the world, and Boise is no exception. These small, flying insects are known for their itchy bites and the potential for carrying diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus. If you find yourself constantly swatting at mosquitoes in your Boise home, you may be wondering why they keep coming back and what you can do to prevent them. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why mosquitoes are attracted to your home and provide some tips for keeping them at bay.
There are a few reasons why mosquitoes might be drawn to your home in Boise. One of the main reasons is standing water. Mosquitoes require water to breed, and they can lay their eggs in as little as a bottle cap's worth of standing water. This means that if you have any sources of standing water around your home, such as bird baths, clogged gutters, or even a saucer under a potted plant, you could be inadvertently providing a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Another reason why mosquitoes might be attracted to your home is the presence of certain plants or flowers. Mosquitoes are known to be attracted to the scent of flowers like lilies and marigolds, as well as plants like mint and lemon balm. If you have these plants in your yard, you may be unknowingly attracting mosquitoes.
Finally, mosquitoes are also attracted to warm bodies. This means that if you or your pets spend a lot of time outside, you may be more likely to attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are especially active during dawn and dusk, so if you spend time outside during these times, you may be at higher risk of getting bitten.
Now that you know why mosquitoes might be attracted to your home, let's look at some ways to prevent them from taking up residence.
1. Eliminate standing water. As we mentioned earlier, standing water is a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes. Make sure to regularly check your yard for any sources of standing water and eliminate them.
2. Use mosquito repellent. Mosquito repellent is a great way to keep mosquitoes at bay when you're spending time outside. Look for a repellent that contains DEET or another EPA-approved active ingredient.
3. Install screens. If you like to leave your windows or doors open, consider installing screens to keep mosquitoes out. Make sure that the screens are in good repair and don't have any holes that mosquitoes can sneak through.
4. Use mosquito nets. If you're planning on spending time outside in an area with a lot of mosquitoes, consider using a mosquito net. You can purchase a net that fits over your outdoor seating area or a smaller net that you can use to cover yourself while you sit outside.
5. Wear protective clothing. Mosquitoes are less likely to bite if your skin is covered. Wear long sleeves and pants, and choose light-colored clothing, as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.
If you're having trouble with mosquitoes in your Boise home, don't hesitate to reach out to EcoSense Pest Control. Our experienced technicians can help you identify the source of the problem and provide effective solutions to keep mosquitoes at bay. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a mosquito-free home.
