With the recent surge of news headlines concerning mosquito-borne illnesses across the nation, many homeowners are wondering how to reduce their risk. The key to avoiding mosquito-borne diseases such as EEE and West Nile Virus is bite prevention - and one effective measure is preventing mosquitoes from breeding on your Massachusetts property. Here's how you can eliminate mosquito breeding grounds in your own yard.
Reduce Standing Water
Mosquitoes need stagnant water in which to lay eggs and for offspring to successfully hatch. Considering one female mosquito can lay up to 300 eggs at a time in just a thimbleful of water, you'll want to make sure standing water is minimized throughout your property. Empty the water from tire swings, wheelbarrows, buckets, tarps, and other receptacles that hold water after it rains or when sprinklers have been on. Water in bird baths, kiddie pools, and pet dishes should be changed on a regular basis.
Inspect outdoor plumbing for leaks and keep your gutters clear of debris to prevent water pooling near your foundation.
Keep Your Yard Neat
Mosquitoes love overgrowth and leaf litter. Keep your grass and shrubbery trimmed and remove yard debris to let the natural light in and reduce the dark, damp conditions that attract mosquitoes.
Fill It In
Sure, mosquitoes will lay eggs inside man-made items like tires or flower pots, but don't overlook areas where water naturally collects as well. Keep an eye out for parts of your yard where water accumulates after rainfall or snow melt, like poorly drained low-lying areas or tire tracks, and fill them in.
Mosquito control in Massachusetts can be a daunting task, but eliminating breeding grounds on your property is a step in the right direction. For added protection from these bloodsucking pests, consider a seasonal mosquito control plan with the Burgess Pest team. Our experts use the most advanced equipment and products to safely and effectively stop mosquitoes from bugging you - get started with a free estimate today!
Already enrolled in a Pad Protection Plan? Adding mosquito control is as easy as giving us a call.
Psssst... If you're thirsty for more tips and information about summer pest control, download our free 2023 Summer Pest Guidebook here!
