Featured mosquito Tip: Mosquitoes around the home can be reduced significantly by minimizing the amount of standing water available for mosquito breeding. Use a larvacide in areas with standing or stagnant water to prevent mosquitoes from completing their life cycle .

MOSQUITO OVERVIEW

Adult female mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of shallow water or on damp soil subject to flooding. (The eggs of some species can survive subzero winters.)

When the environment is suitable, mosquito larvae emerge from the eggs. The larvae survive by eating microorganisms in the water and breathing oxygen from the surface through a breathing tube. This stage of development typically lasts from four to 14 days.

The larvae become pupae. This non-feeding stage lasts one to four days.

After emerging as an adult, the mosquito rests on the surface of water for about two days, allowing the body and wings to dry before flying off to mate and feed.

While all mosquitoes feed on nectar and other sugary sources, most female mosquitoes also require blood meals, and some will fly for miles to find it.

With just one bite, adult mosquitoes may transmit West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and other viruses that can cause encephalitis in both people and animals. They may also transmit heartworm disease to dog\s and cats.