Take Back Your Outdoor Space From Mosquitoes

If you’ve spent time enjoying the great outdoors, chances are you’ve encountered a mosquito or twenty. Unless you’re one of the lucky ones who are seemingly immune to these blood-sucking savages, you’re probably willing to do whatever it takes to avoid running into them as much as possible. While their bites might not be painful, the persistent itch is impossible to ignore and can drive the calmest person to the edge of insanity. It’s only natural to ask, do we really have to live with mosquitoes?

The Very Real Danger Of Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are far more dangerous than your average campfire pest. According to global death statistics, they are the world’s deadliest creature—and it’s not even close. Around 750,000 deaths per year are attributed to mosquito-borne diseases. Though they are far more common in underdeveloped, tropical countries, that isn’t to say that the U.S. residents are entirely immune. In fact, 65 of the 200 species in the continental United States have tested positive for West Nile virus, and the CDC has reported thousands of locally transmitted Zika virus infections. Not even celebrities are safe. In October 2020 and 2021, respectively, famous actors Clark Middleton and Mira Furlan died due to West Nile complications

A World Without Mosquitoes

From a layman’s perspective, it’s hard to imagine that they serve an essential purpose. Can we be rid of them without facing dire consequences? Well, that’s a question that entomologists have been trying to answer for years. Some species, such as the mosquitofish, might go extinct without them, sending ripples up and down the local food chain, and the number of migratory birds in the tundra could drop by over 50 percent. And believe it or not, males are avid pollinators and support plant life (and they aren’t the sex that bites us.)

What Attracts Mosquitoes?

Okay, so maybe the world needs mosquitoes, but that does not mean you have to welcome them with open arms. As one of the most infested U.S. cities, Los Angeles residents have no choice but to accept their presence. There are steps you can take to discourage interaction. At the most fundamental level, they are attracted to carbon dioxide and skin-derived odors like sweat. About 20 percent of people are more enticing simply because they produce more CO2. In addition, studies suggest that people with warmer body temperatures, higher metabolic rates, or type O blood are more likely to fall victim to their bites.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to offset intrinsic factors. However, you can take advantage of their weaknesses. For example, certain scents disgust mosquitoes while others can mask the smells that attract them. Examples include lavender, peppermint, citronella, rosemary, and even catnip. Though you might feel skeptical of using natural oils as a repellent, science backs up their efficacy. Many of them are active ingredients in naturally sourced repellents and are even recommended by the CDC for preventing bites.

Interestingly enough, changing your diet might have an effect on the attraction. For example, garlic, onion, and vinegar are rumored to repel them, and some say that a diet high in thiamine can help dissuade them. Keep in mind, though, that there is little scientific research or proof to back such claims. As far as foods that attract them, anything salty should be avoided. And while you might feel tempted to crack open a cold one during your next backyard barbecue, keep in mind that they would also love to share a beer with you.

How To Create A Mosquito-Free Yard

Limiting their breeding grounds, particularly around your home is one of the best ways to avoid them. Eliminate sources of standing water, such as fountains, birdbaths, pools, rain gutters, or open cans. Water should be circulated or chemically treated whenever possible, and if it isn’t, make sure to change and clean it at least once a week. You should also trim weeds and keep a tidy lawn to help prevent pooling water. If you’re an avid gardener, planting citronella or lavender plants is a natural and beautiful way to repel them.

Expert Mosquito Control In Ventura & Los Angeles Counties

101 Gopher & Pest Control has over 20 years of experience helping Los Angeles residents prevent and eliminate mosquito infestations. We understand firsthand just how disruptive they can be and can do everything in our power to grant you a pest-free life. So, while we can’t eradicate them from the planet just yet, we can help you live without them. Contact us today and get started on a buzz-free property.