Mosquitoes have a four-stage life cycle and water is necessary for the larvae to develop. The female mosquito usually needs to feed on blood in order to obtain the necessary protein for eggs to develop. Depending on the species, the female only bites one specific species, such as birds, or she may be able to feed off of many types of animals, including man. Because mosquitoes lay large numbers of eggs, unusually wet weather can cause a rapid surge in the mosquito population. Control of mosquito populations is necessary to reduce the risk of disease as well as reduce the stress their numbers can cause to both humans and domesticated animals.
Humans are at risk, particularly when mosquito populations increase.
In order to be most effective at controlling mosquito populations and the pathogens they carry, it is important to have a good understanding of what species of mosquito you need to control, their life cycle and the habitats where they are most likely to occur. This species of mosquito breeds readily in any container that holds water for a few days and populations can rise dramatically after rainy weather. Limiting breeding sites is the most important factor in suppressing population growth of this species. Removing standing water and emptying birdbaths every few days will do much to reduce the mosquito populations in your yard. In order to identify problem areas, it is essential to get a clear picture of the mosquito populations in your area.