Mosquito Facts

• Name:  The name mosquito comes from the Spanish world meaning "little fly".
• Species:  There are over 3,000 different species of mosquitoes, with 176 of these species found in the United States.
• Size:  While mosquitoes range in size, they are not typically larger than 3/5 inches.
• Appearance:  They have thin bodies made up of three sections and two wings.

Mosquito Behavior

Mosquitoes are widespread pests found across the globe, and while they’re often associated with biting humans, it’s a common misconception that they rely on blood for nourishment.  In reality, both male and female mosquitoes primarily feed on plant nectar, much like bees.  Only female mosquitoes bite, and they do so to obtain the proteins needed to develop their eggs.  Male mosquitoes never feed on blood.  Though mosquitoes can be a nuisance - and in some cases, a serious health risk due to their ability to transmit diseases - they also play a vital role in the ecosystem by serving as a food source for a variety of other organisms.

Mosquitoes can often be found in:

• Standing water, such as ponds, basins, birdbaths, buckets, or other small objects.
• Dampness, like tree holes, flowerbeds, rock holes, sprinkler heads, or shady areas.
• Dormant sites, like patios, building eaves, gazebos, porches, or decks.

How Serious Are Mosquito Bites?

While mosquito bites are typically just an itchy nuisance, they can occasionally trigger stronger allergic reactions in some individuals. More importantly, mosquitoes are known carriers of serious diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and West Nile virus - making prevention essential. Although the bites themselves are usually harmless, the potential for disease transmission is a valid concern. To reduce your risk, it’s always wise to use insect repellent when spending time outdoors. If you ever experience unusual or severe symptoms following a bite, seek medical attention promptly.

Did you know that . . .

• Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.
• Only female mosquitoes bite, males eat nectar.
• An individual's body chemistry has a big influence on where a mosquito is attracted to the person.
• An estimated one million people die every year from a mosquito-born disease.

Mosquito control can be challenging, especially since these pests are great at adapting to different environments. Prevention is key - things like emptying buckets, old tires, and anything else that collects standing water can help reduce places where mosquitoes lay eggs. But once mosquitoes become a problem, it often takes more than just prevention to get things under control.

That’s where Truly Nolen of Youngstown & Warren's Mosquito Control Program comes in.  We utilize mosquito stations that attract mosquitoes and help reduce their ability to reproduce.  These stations also allow mosquitoes to unknowingly carry the treatment material back to other breeding areas, helping to stop the problem at the source. It’s a smart and effective way to control mosquito populations around your home or business.

If you're noticing an increase in mosquitoes or want to stay ahead of them, Truly Nolen of Youngstown & Warren can help with proven solutions that protect your outdoor spaces and give you peace of mind.  Give us a call today to schedule your complimentary mosquito inspection.

Contact us today to learn more about our mosquito treatment options.