How To Make Your Yard Less Inviting to Mosquitoes

What is West Nile virus?

The Louisiana Department of Health defines West Nile virus as an illness spread primarily by mosquitoes to people and animals. Of course, we should note that not every mosquito in Louisiana carries this sickness, only the ones that feed on infected birds.

80% of people infected with the virus do not show any symptoms or experience mild illness, but fewer than 1% will develop a severe form of the disease. Unfortunately, while rare, WNV can prove fatal. Symptoms of West Nile virus include: 

• No symptoms
• Fever
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Nausea
• Skin rash
• Swollen lymph glands
• Eye pain

More severe symptoms associated with West Nile neuroinvasive disease include but are not limited to, severe headaches, high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, vision loss, and paralysis. 

The mosquito life cycle and standing water

Mosquitoes have a life cycle that is dependent on water. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in or near water sources. These eggs hatch into larvae, develop into pupae, and eventually mature into adult mosquitoes. As you can see, standing water provides the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, enabling them to reproduce quickly.

How to make your yard less attractive to mosquitoes

If you’d rather not worry about mosquitoes this summer or all year, the best course of action is to make your yard less hospitable to these biting pests. Here are some mosquito prevention strategies to accomplish that:

• Remove or regularly empty any containers that can collect water, such as kids' toys, planters, pots, and tarps. When not in use, turn over or store these items in the garage or other storage area.
• Clean gutters regularly to prevent clogs that can lead to standing water. Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
• Address any leaks around your home promptly. Dripping outdoor faucets and broken sprinklers may lead to pooling water and wet areas in your yard.
• Refresh outdoor water features, such as bird baths and fountains. Also, maintain your swimming pool regularly by chlorinating properly and ensuring the filtration system works correctly.
• Regular lawn care, including weekly mowing and trimming vegetation, will reduce the shady, damp areas where mosquitoes like to rest. 

What else you can do to discourage mosquitoes on your property

While you might consider planting mosquito-repellent plants like citronella, marigolds, and basil and implementing the tips mentioned above, we also recommend signing up for year-round mosquito treatments with Anti-Pest!

That’s right; our locally owned and family-operated pest control company provides recurring mosquito control services that target adult mosquitoes and their breeding grounds. Each month, one of our highly trained and fully licensed pest control experts will visit your home to treat areas where these pests are likely to hide and breed. While we cannot entirely eradicate mosquitoes, our monthly treatments significantly reduce the mosquito population, allowing you to enjoy your patio, pool, and other outdoor living spaces without the nuisance of mosquitoes.

If you’re ready to sign up for Anti-Pest’s mosquito control, please call us or click here to get started!