Types of Mosquitoes In North Carolina - Identification and Removal
Across the world there are 3,000+ different species of mosquitoes. Although there aren't quite that many types of mosquitoes in North Carolina, NC is home to a large mosquito population.
The mosquito season in North Carolina generally runs from Early Spring to Fall, somewhere around March - October. Mosquitoes are looking for the optimal breeding conditions, which includes warm and humid environments. Unfortunately this makes North Carolina a perfect home for mosquitoes.
Although mosquitoes will be found anywhere there is a food source, mosquitoes are particularly attracted to areas that have standing water, since this is where mosquitoes will lay their eggs.
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Types of Mosquitoes In North Carolina:
Although there are over 50 different types of mosquitoes in North Carolina, there are a handful which are much more common than other species. These include:
Northern House Mosquitoes:
These are the most common type of mosquito in NC. They are often found inside homes and around human constructs such as sewers, garbage cans, pools and manmade ditches. These mosquitoes are most active later at night and are known to carry West Nile Virus which means they can be dangerous to your family and pets.
Asian Tiger Mosquitoes:
Another very common type of mosquito in North Carolina is the Asian Tiger Mosquito. These are often found around garden areas and like to breed and live in and around flowers and potted plants. If you have a bird bath that has standing water in your yard, then they'll often use this as their breeding grounds as well! These can be another dangerous species of mosquito because they often carry diseases such as Chikungunya and Zika Virus.
Eastern Saltmarsh Mosquitoes:
Another common species of mosquitoes in NC are the Eastern Saltmarsh Mosquitoes. As the name suggests these are predominately found on the Eastern side of the state near the coast. They naturally will breed in marshlands and are particularly focused on finding a host to feed on. These types of mosquitoes can spread Equine Encephalitis, which is a rare but serious disease.
What Type of Diseases Do North Carolina Mosquitoes Carry?
Mosquitoes across the world are one of the biggest causes of the spread of disease. Mosquitoes in North Carolina are no different. Although serious disease transmission from NC mosquitoes is rare, it is possible. Diseases that mosquitoes in NC carry can include:
- Zika Virus
- West Nile Virus
- Equine Encephalitis
- La Crosse Encephalitis
- And More!
How To Prevent Mosquitoes In North Carolina:
Unfortunately mosquitoes can be extremely difficult to 100% remove from in and around your property. That being said there are definitely steps you can take to prevent and reduce the amount of mosquitoes around your home. Some of the best ways to prevent and reduce mosquitoes in North Carolina includes:
- Frequently drain and remove any standing water in and around your property such as bird baths, kid pools, and others.
- Keep your lawn and property trimmed and tidy. Mosquitoes often live in tall grass, overgrown bushes and shrubs, and other natural areas. By keeping everything kept, you will reduce the likelihood of mosquitoes making a home in and around your property.
- Dethach your lawn. Overtime lawns build up areas of moisture which isn't healthy for your lawn and is a common breeding area for mosquitoes and other insects.
- Contact a professional mosquito service. Here are Triangle Pest Control we offer professional grade mosquito control services with a satisfaction guarantee!
