We might hate mosquitoes to our very core, but these little creatures have nothing but love for us! Mosquitoes are almost entirely reliant on human beings and other mammals for their reproductive life cycle. Only female mosquitoes are capable of taking blood from other creatures, but even half of the pest population is enough to make a huge difference in our lives and overall comfort factor. Once female mosquitoes have ingested a blood meal, they have the opportunity to lay fertilized eggs that will hatch within one to two weeks. The warm weather, high presence of people, and mild winters commonly associated with San Antonio makes the area one of the biggest mosquito hot spots in the United States!
Mosquitoes are an all too familiar resident of the San Antonio area, but what exactly do they look like up close?
The word mosquito technically means ‘little fly,’ since the pest resembles a housefly in certain ways.
Up close, you may notice that female mosquitoes have sharp proboscises that pierce the skin for feeding purposes. The proboscises of male mosquitoes are only suited for sipping nectar and other plant matter.
Mosquitoes usually appear in color patterns of black, grey, and brown. They are often too small to identify based on color alone.
Mosquitoes in San Antonio are not just obnoxious lay-a-bouts that fill up your gardens and backyards. Unfortunately, these creatures are considered to be some of the most dangerous animals in the world.
Mosquitoes have the ability to transfer much more than just an itchy bite. With dozens of viruses, pathogens, and bacterial infections linked to their name, your top priority this year should be keeping mosquitoes out of the house. This is one of the primary reasons why homeowners choose to (ineffectively) use scents to keep mosquitoes away.
Scents That Keep Mosquitoes Away
Many people in the San Antonio area choose to use essential oils and other fragrances to repel mosquito populations. This is often done in an attempt to remove pests completely from the property, or as an alternative to more aggressive or toxic mosquito treatments.
There is much debate over the effectiveness of these oils on the behavior of mosquitoes. On one hand, some scents do seem to keep pests from wandering into unwanted areas. On the other hand, there is little evidence to suggest that essential oils could eliminate a rooted infestation. Here are some scents and essential oils that are known to deter mosquitoes from homes and properties all over the San Antonio region:
- Citronella
- Lemon
- Peppermint or Spearmint
- Cedarwood
- Vinegar mixes
At the end of the day, it will be important for you to personally research and use essential oils effectively. Oils may be dangerous or even toxic when aerosolized and may produce unwanted health effects. Please ensure that you are mixing your essential oils with water, vinegar, or another type of neutralizing agent for safety purposes.
Banish Mosquitoes Permanently With White Knight Pest Control
For more mosquito prevention advice, or to receive one-on-one mosquito control for your property, please don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at White Knight Pest Control immediately.
We make pest control a breeze, with unique plans and treatment types that are tailored to fit your personal needs. Our handpicked and highly trained crew has been in business for many years and is thoroughly equipped to completely remove mosquito infestations from your premises. To schedule a household mosquito inspection or begin a regular treatment program, please call, click, or visit with White Knight Pest Control today!