Mosquito Identification and Prevention Guide For Wilmington, NC

What are Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are biting pests. These relentless insects are annoying and ruin the time we spend outside. Adult mosquitoes have a fly-like shape and are mostly gray, black, or brown with white, silver, green, blue, or iridescent scales on their bodies, depending on their species. Their bodies are narrow and oval-shaped, and adults usually grow to about ¼ of an inch in length. They have a single pair of wings covered in hair, long thin legs, and a distinctive long thin proboscis (nose) that they use to feed. If you have mosquitoes or other pests reach out to the best exterminators in Wilmington NC!

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mosquitos on surface

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Mosquitoes are dangerous pests because females consume blood meals from both people and animals. Females require a blood meal in order to obtain the protein needed to develop viable eggs. Mosquitoes can transmit disease-causing pathogens to people, which can cause serious health problems. In the U.S., mosquitoes spread encephalitis and West Nile virus.

In developing and tropical countries, mosquitoes are responsible for spreading malaria and yellow fever, which kills or harms millions each year. Mosquitoes are also responsible for spreading potentially fatal parasitic heartworms to our pets. Heartworm disease is a significant problem that pet owners living in the southern part of the United States need to take seriously.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

The hot, humid weather in North Carolina during the spring, summer, and fall seasons allows for mosquito populations to thrive throughout most of the year. Under the right weather conditions, mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in under a week. Properties near areas of standing water have the most problems with mosquitoes. If you are near heavily wooded areas, marshes, ponds, lakes, or drainage ditches, there is a good chance you will experience high numbers of mosquitoes on your property.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are outdoors pests that will travel long distances in search of a blood meal. These biting pests are difficult to control and keep out of our yards. During the heat of the day, most mosquitoes rest. Common resting sites include overgrown grass and under dense vegetation. At dusk and dawn, when the weather is at its coolest, mosquitoes become active and begin searching for food. While out searching for food, it is common for mosquitoes to find their way into homes and other buildings through spaces in screens and open windows and doors.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

Take control of the mosquito numbers on your property with the help of the professionals at Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators. Trying to tackle pest problems on your own is difficult, time-consuming, and ineffective.

For over two decades, Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators has solved pest problems for home and business owners throughout Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover counties in North Carolina. Our qualified and dedicated staff solve local pest problems using the latest products, techniques, and mosquito control services. To start maintaining a mosquito-free home or business, reach out to Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

Keep mosquitoes out of your Wilmington, NC home with the help of Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators and the following mosquito prevention tips.

  • Remove all standing water from your property.
  • Maintain gutters and downspouts to make sure rainwater flows away from the foundation of your home.
  • Store your buckets, flower pots, wheelbarrows, and other containers that collect water upside down or in an indoor storage area when not in use.
  • Keep grass cut short and cut back overgrown vegetation and trees from your home’s exterior.
  • Keep doors, and windows shut as much as possible and repair loose or torn window or door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house.
  • Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active.