While some insects’ lifestyle or appearance makes them rather endearing, mosquitos are almost universally scorned. Most people dread mosquito season because it inevitably leads to numerous itchy patches on their skin. Though you may not be very likable, it’s a good idea to learn more about these biters and the impact they have on residents of Bridgewater. Consider several questions that may help you approach this year’s mosquito season from the most informed perspective possible.

Do Mosquitoes Have Blood of Their Own?

Insects and other arthropods do not have blood in the same way that humans do. Instead, these critters possess a fluid called hemolymph that helps move waste products and nutrients from one location to another. This fluid is generally clear or yellow in colour and consists of water, amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, hormones, and several other compounds. Interestingly, mosquitos and other insects do have a heart, but it is in their abdomen and mainly functions to remove hemolymph from pockets known as hemocoels. 

Another important difference between human blood and mosquito hemolymph is that the latter is not contained within vessels. Insects’ bodies allow hemolymph to move about the entire internal space. On top of that, mosquitoes use their tracheal tubes to ferry carbon dioxide and oxygen instead of their hemolymph.

Why Do They Bite Humans and Other Animals?

Even though mosquitos have their own equivalent of blood, they still require the blood of other animals at times. Namely, females must obtain blood to accumulate the nutrients needed to produce a brood of eggs. Usually, it takes up to five days for her to release her eggs after consuming blood. Each brood may contain as much as 500 eggs and each female may be able to give rise to 10 total broods. 

When females are not reproducing, they live off of nectar. Likewise, males use nectar for nutrients throughout their lives. As the ones responsible for laying eggs, females live for about four weeks, while most males live only half that long.

Are Their Bites Dangerous?

The mosquito’s bite does not pose any danger in and of itself. After all, females typically only consume about three milligrams of blood each time they bite an animal. Unfortunately, these flying pests may unwittingly pass on diseases to humans. Mosquitos have been known to carry Zika virus and West Nile virus, among others.

The aftereffects of these critters’ bites can also be rather annoying. The female mosquito’s saliva transfers to her host, both numbing the skin at the site of the bite and preventing the blood from clotting. This can result in an itchy, red spot on a person’s skin.

How Can You Prevent a Mosquito Infestation?

Mosquitos don’t thrive in just any environment. These flying insects make their home in places that feature standing water and warm, humid air. While you may not be able to control the outside air temperature on your property, you can eliminate other favourable conditions. First and foremost, address any areas around your house that allow water to sit stagnantly. This may require adjusting your drainage system, cleaning your gutters, filling in low spots, and adding an aerator to ponds and fountains.

What Is the Best Way To Respond to an Infestation?

If mosquitos have already made a comfortable home on your property, these preventative measures may not be helpful. Instead, this situation calls for assistance from professionals who can eliminate the problem and prevent it from reoccurring. Our mosquito program includes a monthly visit from June through September to ensure your yard stays protected from any infestations. 

When you need pest control in Bridgewater, reach out to your local Truly Nolen Canada. Ask us about our Four Season Pest Control service that will ensure pests like bees, wasps, ants and spiders are kept from nesting in your home. Give us a call today.