9 Steps to Halt Mosquito Breeding

Nuisance pests (like mosquitoes) have been turning events and outdoor get-together into slap-fests for as long as anyone can remember.

And, with all the health risks associated with them, such as:

  • West Nile Virus
  • Dengue Fever
  • Chikungunya (CHIKV)

you’ll want to make sure you protect yourself, your loved ones, and all your outdoor
get-togethers, too.

We have a few methods you can use right now to prevent mosquito breeding in your backyard.

Check for Places Water Can Collect

Get rid of tin cans, bottles, buckets, barrels, old tires, tarps, or any other materials or containers where water can collect.

Put Away Pools

When your family isn’t using them, be sure to empty and store wading pool & toys, and don’t allow water to accumulate or stand anywhere on your property for more than 2 days.

Clean Up Debris

Clean debris from your gutters and downspouts, and remove any standing water from under or around your decks, sheds, play structures, etc.

Repair Leaks

Check your outdoor faucets and air conditioner unit for leaks – repair any you find – and eliminate any puddles they might have caused.

Change Bird Bath Water

Change the water in your bird bath every 2-4 days

Fill in Holes

Prevent standing water by filling ditches & holes, and leveling any low spots or perennially soggy areas in your lawn & garden areas.

Fix Septic Issues

Eliminate seepage from your cesspool and/or septic tank (if applicable).

Maintain Sprinklers

Check your automatic lawn and garden sprinkler system regularly for over or under-watered areas and, to prevent puddles (standing) water, adjust it accordingly.

Check Creeks

If you have ditches or streams on, or adjacent to your property that aren’t flowing – and/or remain stagnant for a week or longer – they can become ideal mosquito breeding areas. You should report them to your local public health office.

Mosquitoes breed in standing water, and their 4, distinct life cycle stages (until they mature and set off on their biting routine) all take place in that same standing water, too.

So, if you eliminate standing water, and ensure there’s no place water can collect and stagnate, your property is less likely to continue serving as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

If you complete all 9 steps above – but your pest problems seem to persist – be sure to call a local pest control company (like TermiGuard Pest Services) to get the scoop on their mosquito & pest control programs, and how they can benefit you, your loved ones, and your property.