As we are welcoming the start of warmer weather in Virginia, many of us are beginning to wonder how all of this wet weather we’ve been having since last fall will affect this year’s mosquito season. You may have other questions about the mosquito season in Virginia, so here are some answers:
When Does Mosquito Season Start?
Depending on the species, some mosquitoes hibernate during the winter and re-emerge when the weather begins to get warmer, while others hatch from previously laid eggs in the spring. The temperature plays a key factor in determining the actual start of the mosquito season. Generally, mosquito activity will begin when the temperature reaches the 50° F level. Mosquitoes obviously thrive in hot weather. So, as the temperature begins to rise, the mosquito volume will increase accordingly. The mosquito season reaches its peak during the hot summer months. In Virginia, mosquito season will likely begin in early April.
Will The Rainy, Mild Winter Affect The Mosquito Season?
This past Fall and Winter have been both mild and soggy. Cold winters with sustained freezing temperatures can kill mosquito eggs and slow the reproductive cycle, but when the outside temperature dips below 50°F but stays above freezing, mosquitoes may only go dormant, allowing them to come to life more quickly when the temperatures climb. If we continue to have a wet Spring, we’ll really be in for a rough Summer full of mosquito bites. The reason is simple; mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Flooding rains create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. More rain means more potential for puddles, and more potential for mosquito breeding. Clever mosquitoes will lay their eggs in protected standing water, things left outdoors that collect water while providing a bit of insulation as well.
Considering how common it is for mosquito populations to increase after a rain, it’s important that water isn’t left to stagnate. A female mosquito only needs an inch of water to lay batches of 100 to 200 eggs. Once she has laid her eggs, they hatch into larvae within 24 to 48 hours. If you’re wondering will the rainy, mild weather will effect the mosquito season, the answer is unfortunately YES.
What Can I Do To Lesson The Mosquito Impact?
Let’s face it. Some of us are mosquito magnets. Here’s why – whenever you exhale, you’re releasing a plume (a visual pattern of carbon dioxide) for potential mosquitoes to sniff out and follow. Mosquitos use sensors around their mouths to detect carbon dioxide, and the plume you leave allows them to zone in on you; they can sense it from up to 164 feet away. Certain types of people naturally produce more carbon dioxide, so it makes sense that they tend to get targeted more by mosquitoes. If you’ve just done some running and are a little short of breath, you might be surprised at all the mosquitoes trying to keep up with you. Pregnant women are more at risk, too. It’s been found that ladies with a bun in the oven exhale around 20% more carbon dioxide than non-pregnant women, so it’s especially important to take extra precautions outside if you’re pregnant. When we sweat, we emit lactic acids which mosquitoes sniff out and get drawn in by. The human body produces lactic acid naturally as it converts carbohydrates into energy, which is then emitted through our skin when exercising. It’s also found in certain foods like yogurt, fermented vegetables such as kimchi, sourdough bread, and wine. Some people have more build-up of lactic acid on their skin, so if you’ve been working out or have been munching on any of the before mentioned foods, it’d be wise to wash up before relaxing outside. Equally, if you’re basking in the glory of smelly socks or dirty clothes, maybe consider freshening up before getting too relaxed outside.
Believe it or not, your blood type can affect a mosquito’s attraction to you. Nearly 50% of Americans have type o blood and scientists say (although they don’t know exactly why) that mosquitoes will be more attracted to those type-o-blood-havers. Research also shows that mosquitoes are attracted to darker colored clothing, so wearing white or very light colored clothing could help make you less of a target.
When Does Mosquito Season End?
When is mosquito season over? Again, the temperature plays an important factor. As the weather begins to cool, you’ll likely notice a decrease in the level of mosquito activity on your property. Non-hibernating mosquitoes will begin to die off as the temperature approaches the 50° F mark, while the hibernating species will start to seek winter refuge in hollow logs, abandoned animal burrows and other convenient hiding spots. The first frost is usually a reliable sign of the end of mosquito season. However, it’s possible that some hibernating mosquitoes will emerge during unexpected warm spells during winter, only to return to their hiding places when the temperature drops.
We all know that we can’t control the weather. We can, however, control the impact it has on the mosquito population in our own backyards. CONTACT Holistic Pest Solutions to learn more about our treatment plans for mosquitoes or give us a call at 434 842 1700. Whether you’re in Charlottesville, Waynesboro, or close by to either, Holistic Pest Solutions is mindful of our clients AND our Earth.
*Our Environmental Commitment: Holistic Pest Solutions is committed to the preservation of our environment. Our goal is to nurture the soils and plant life of lawns and landscapes. Utilizing holistic pest control practices that cause the least amount of impact on the environment.
