The warm, humid climate of Eastern North Carolina and Tidewater Virginia creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. These blood-feeding pests don’t just ruin outdoor activities – they pose serious health risks to your family and pets. Understanding what you’re up against is the first step in effective mosquito control.
Common mosquitoes in Eastern NC and Tidewater VA.
Our region hosts several problematic mosquito species that residents should know about:
- Asian Tiger Mosquito: Recognizable by its black and white striped legs, this aggressive daytime feeder can transmit diseases including West Nile virus.
- Southern House Mosquito: Active during dawn and dusk, this common pest is a primary carrier of West Nile virus in our area.
- Eastern Salt Marsh Mosquito: Particularly abundant near coastal areas, these mosquitoes can travel up to 40 miles in search of a blood meal.
- Asian Bush Mosquito: A recent invader that thrives in wooded areas and can breed in very small water containers.
Why mosquitoes want your blood.
Only female mosquitoes bite humans and animals. They need the protein in blood to develop their eggs. Male mosquitoes feed exclusively on plant nectar and don’t bite. A female mosquito can lay up to 300 eggs at once after a single blood meal, which explains why populations explode so quickly during warm months.
Where mosquitoes hide around your home.
Mosquitoes can breed in surprisingly small amounts of water. Common breeding sites include:
- Clogged gutters holding rainwater
- Children’s toys left in the yard
- Bird baths and pet water bowls
- Flowerpot saucers
- Unused swimming pools or kiddie pools
- Old tires
- Rain barrels without screens
- Low spots in yards that collect water
Adult mosquitoes rest in shady, humid areas during the day – tall grass, shrubs, under decks, and in tree cavities.
DIY mosquito control: What works and what doesn’t.
Effective DIY methods:
- Eliminating standing water weekly
- Using EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
- Installing or repairing window and door screens
- Using oscillating fans on porches (mosquitoes are weak fliers)
- Wearing long sleeves and pants during peak activity times
Ineffective methods to avoid:
- Bug zappers: These kill beneficial insects but few mosquitoes
- Citronella candles: Provide minimal protection in open areas
- Smartphone apps claiming to repel mosquitoes
- Vitamin B supplements: No scientific evidence supports this myth
- Ultrasonic devices: Scientific studies show these don’t work
Preventing mosquito problems before they start.
Prevention is always more effective than treatment. Take these steps to reduce mosquito populations:
- Conduct weekly yard inspections for standing water
- Keep lawns mowed and vegetation trimmed
- Clean gutters in spring and fall
- Schedule outdoor activities when mosquitoes are less active
- Use yellow “bug lights” for outdoor lighting
- Apply larvicides to water features that can’t be drained
Why professional mosquito control outperforms DIY methods.
While DIY efforts help reduce mosquito numbers, professional mosquito control offers several advantages:
- Targeted approach: Professional technicians identify specific breeding sites you might miss.
- Better products: Professionals use commercial-grade products not available to consumers.
- Comprehensive treatment: Both larvae and adult mosquitoes are targeted.
- Long-lasting protection: Professional treatments create a barrier that continues working for weeks.
- Time and cost efficiency: No need to purchase and apply multiple products yourself.
- Expert knowledge: Professionals understand mosquito biology and behavior patterns.
When mosquitoes show up, so do we. Terminix of Eastern NC and Tidewater VA offers customized mosquito control solutions that protect your family all season long. Our technicians target the places mosquitoes breed and rest, dramatically reducing populations around your home.
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your outdoor living spaces this summer. Call or text 800-284-7911 or fill out a quick contact form for a free pest inspection and quote on our effective mosquito control services.