Overview
In most cases you will already know if mosquitoes are a problem on your property and you will not need to search for them, they will happily find you. You can however find the areas where immature mosquitoes, known as larva, are harboring. By finding and treating or eliminating mosquito eggs in these areas you can greatly reduce the mosquito population on your property.
Step
1
Check Spots Where Water Collects
Mosquitoes require water to breed and lay eggs. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in clusters called "rafts" or singly on the surface of the water. After the eggs hatch, the immature mosquitoes swim down into the water and this stage of the mosquito life cycle is completely aquatic. The water needed to lay eggs can be a lake, pond or even a neglected pet dish left outdoors. A careful inspection of your property can help you identify the areas where water is conducive to the mosquitoes life cycle. You will need to look for places where rain water can gather:
- Bird baths
- Flowerpots
- Ornamental fountains or ponds
- Debris filled gutters and down spouts
- Water gardens
- Rain barrels and gauges
- Pool covers
- Standing puddles and low spots in yards
- Animal drinking water receptacles
- Shallow ponds
- Abandoned or neglected kiddie pools, swimming pools or hot tubs
- Deep hollows in trees
- Any item that can hold water for extended periods of time