Over 3000 species of mosquitoes exist in the world. These pests even live everywhere except Antarctica. Mosquitoes not only bite and cause painful bumps, but they also can carry deadly illnesses like malaria or Lyme disease. While heading toward warmer days, you may be wondering what time of year mosquitoes are worst. This guide gives you the answer and also provides steps on how to prevent them from bothering you.

What is the Ideal Environment for Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes have specific requirements for dwelling and breeding. They prefer temperatures that are 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Once temperatures reach around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, they go dormant until the weather warms up again. You can typically find mosquitoes in areas that are warm all year round, moist or tropical environments and places with standing water.

What Time of Year are Mosquitoes the Worst?

Since these pests like warmer temperatures, summer is the worst time of year for mosquitoes. They are especially prevalent near water. Every state in the United States is also different when it comes to mosquitoes waking up from hibernation.

Northern states like New York and Washington start to see these pests in early May. Northern middle states like Oregon and Ohio have mosquitoes pop up in late April. The show up in areas like Nevada and Kentucky in early April. Middle southern states like New Mexico or Alabama have mosquitoes show up around early March. Southern states like Texas or Florida have these pests appear as early as February.

What Should You Do to Prevent Mosquitoes?

Even though these bloodsucking pests linger around during the warmer months, you do not need to be confined indoors. Instead, you can take some steps to prevent them from biting you.

In your yard or around your property, plant mosquito-deterring plants like citronella or spray pest control chemicals. Remove any standing water from pools, watering holes, puddles and any other areas that hold liquids.

If you want to protect yourself while you are out, always wear bug or insect repellent. You will need to reapply throughout the day, so you will need to read the instructions on how to use the repellent. Another option is to wear long or thick clothing. The more you cover your body, the less likely it is that mosquitoes will bite you. However, you can overheat if you are outside too long while wearing heavy clothing.

Do not let mosquitoes ruin your summer. Instead, always stay prepared. If you need help removing these pests or any others in or around your home, give Hart Pest Control a call today.