Mosquitoes

Excerpts courtesy of Charles Apperson and Michael Waldvogel, Extention Entomology NCSU Insect Note – ANT/rsc-6

Mosquitoes are important pests because their biting activity often interferes with outdoor activities and can transmit disease organisms to people and domestic animals. Most mosquitoes are active during twilight hours and at night; however, around the home, the mosquitoes that breed in discarded containers are active during the day. Mosquitoes need water to complete their life cycle. They can breed in almost any source of water. Solving the problem effectively and safely requires:

• Proper identification of the mosquito species.
• Obtaining information about the biology and behavior of these particular species.
• Locating and eliminating breeding sites, particularly artificial sites that may be as close as your own backyard.
• Using appropriate chemical control measures, including personal protection.