Mosquito Control Myths and Facts: What Works?
As warm weather approaches, mosquitoes start to become a nuisance again. Their bites can cause itchy welts, and some mosquitoes can transmit diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, malaria, and more. This has led to a booming mosquito control industry that sells all sorts of products and services promising to eliminate mosquitoes from your yard.
But which mosquito control methods work, and which are just myths? Let’s separate fact from fiction when controlling these pesky insects.
MYTH: ULTRASONIC MOSQUITO-REPELLENT DEVICE WORK
Many products on the market claim to use ultrasonic sound waves to drive mosquitoes away from an area. However, numerous scientific studies have shown that these devices have no effect whatsoever on mosquito behavior or ability to bite. Mosquitoes cannot hear the high-frequency sounds produced by these useless gadgets.
FACT: REMOVING STANDING WATER IS THE BEST PREVENTION METHOD
Many products on the market claim to use ultrasonic sound waves to drive mosquitoes away from an area. However, numerous scientific studies have shown that these devices have no effect whatsoever on mosquito behavior or ability to bite. Mosquitoes cannot hear the high-frequency sounds produced by these useless gadgets.
MYTH: BAT HOUSES AND PURPLE MARTINS CONTROL MOSQUITOES
While bats and purple martins eat insects, they prefer larger bugs like moths and beetles. The tiny mosquito makes up only a tiny portion of their diet, so attracting these animals to your yard won’t meaningfully reduce mosquitoes.
FACT: DEET IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE MOSQUITO-REPELLENT INGREDIENT
Many of these products rely on plant oils like citronella, lemongrass, or peppermint. While some can provide limited protection, DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) remains the gold standard for active ingredients that effectively deter mosquito bites. Up to 25% DEET concentration is recommended for maximum protection.
MYTH: BUG ZAPPER ATTRACT AND KILL LOTS OF MOSQUITOES
Those classic blue lights designed to electrocute insects work great at killing moths and other harmless bugs, but studies show they are ineffective at controlling mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are not very attracted to the UV light produced by these devices. Worse, they may attract more mosquitoes to your yard.
FACT: INSECTICIDE SPRAY/FOGGING CAN TEMPORARILY REDUCE MOSQUITOES
While broadcast spraying of liquid insecticides and fogging machines should be used cautiously, they can provide a reprieve from mosquitoes when used correctly and according to label instructions. Targeted spraying of shaded areas where mosquitoes rest can significantly reduce their populations for a few weeks.
When planning mosquito prevention and control around your home, skip the gimmicky products and focus on source reduction by eliminating standing water. Use EPA-approved repellents and carefully targeted insecticide applications for best results. With diligence, you can take back your backyard this summer from these disease-carrying pests.
It’s best to hire professionals who can provide tailored services to meet your property’s needs. They will survey the area and recommend the best solutions. For information on our mosquito control and other insect control services, please call Damon Johnson at (405) 341-7998. Alternatively, message us using this Online Form.
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