Move On, Mosquitoes (DC)
Rain in the forecast creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which lay their eggs in standing water. About 60 species of mosquito have been identified in Maryland and 55 have been identified in Virginia. While not all prefer to get their meals from humans, many mosquito species will breed – and bite – in your backyard.
Viewer Tip: Even the small amount of water found in a flower pot saucer is sufficient for mosquitoes to lay eggs. The easiest way to thwart mosquito breeding in your backyard is to get rid of standing water. Remove water from rain gutters, plastic buckets, children’s toys, potted plant trays and other containers after a storm. If you have water features – birdbaths, fountains or wading pools – empty and change the water at least once per week.
Remember to protect yourself, too: Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants if you are working outside when mosquitoes are most active – from dusk to dawn.
Season: Summer
(Sources: Centers for Disease Control, Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases: West Nile Virus: What You Need to Know. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/wnv_factSheet.htm; U.S. EPA, Pesticides, Mosquito Control, http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/health/mosquitoes/mosquito.htm)
