Your Back Yard Is The Perfect Breeding Ground For Mosquitoes

Homeowners! When was the last time you observed your back yard and the potential perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes? Anything that collects standing water, is the perfect place for these disease spreading pests to settle into and produce even more of these suckers! Here’s an article about what might just be lurking in your flower pots and other containers.

Flower Pots in Southwestern U.S. a Common Breeding Site for Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes

Aedes aegypti is prevalent in humid areas. But, because mosquitoes often develop in water standing in containers, the presence of human containers has allowed the species to spread through desert regions of the southwestern United States. There is a paucity of information on how many water containers are present in residential properties in the southwestern U.S. and about the knowledge and attitudes southwestern U.S. residents have about transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.

As a responsible homeowner, any containers with standing water should be emptied regularly and mosquito control up to date. The contribution by taking these actions means that we are mindfully putting up our defenses against these killer bugs.

If you’re located in an area that’s had a lot of rainfall, then of course, collected water is going to be everywhere. It’s important that you tip as much of it away as possible. As the video says, even a bottle cap full of standing water, is enough for a mosquito to live it’s life cycle.

Life Cycle

The mosquito goes through four separate and distinct stages of its life cycle: Egg, Larva, Pupa, and Adult. Each of these stages can be easily recognized by its special appearance. How long each stage lasts depends on both temperature and species characteristics. For instance, Culex tarsalis, a common California (USA) mosquito, might go through its life cycle in 14 days at 70° F and take only 10 days at 80° F. On the other hand, some species have naturally adapted to go through their entire life cycle in as little as four days or as long as one month.

Let’s not give these pests an open invitation to create nuisance in and around our homes. Take action now! Mosquito season is upon us and they are hungry for our blood!