Dangers of Open Water

Many homes are within a mosquito’s flying distance of open water, such as a river, creek, or lake. And if you live on or near water, you’re bound to have an issue with mosquito control and open water. But Mr. Mister can still get your property mosquito-free.

Dangers of Open Water

Mosquitoes do not generally fly more than three miles from where they hatched. In most cases, a mosquito spends its life within a mile of where it hatched. And mosquitoes are weak flyers. They fly at a speed of around 1.5 mph, so they don’t get very far quickly. You are most at risk if you live within 3 miles of a lake, pond, or marshland. Each of these habitats is very popular with mosquitoes. If you live within a mile, you are even more prone to mosquito control and open water issues. And if you live right on the water, prepare for an onslaught.

Moving water, such as rivers, creeks, and streams, are also breeding grounds for mosquitoes. They are not necessarily as attractive as standing water. But most running water includes small areas of standing water, which is all a mosquito needs to lay its eggs. So, if your home is within flying distance of a river, you may be out of luck. That includes the Chattahoochee River as it runs through Fulton, Cobb, and Gwinnett Counties. If you live nearby, expect to be bitten this spring.

The same is true if you live in Buckhead, close to the Nancy Creek River. Homes in Alpharetta within a mile or two of Big Creek are also susceptible. Anyone with waterfront properties is at a particular risk. Sometimes mosquito attacks can be so intense that they mitigate much of the pleasure of living on the water. So what can you do to make your spring and summer more enjoyable if you live on the water?

Basic Prevention

Bear in mind that mosquitoes breed mainly in standing water. First, you should inspect places where water can collect in your yard and the surrounding area. As we often remind you, most people have potential breeding places in their yards close to their homes. Birdbaths, old tires, pet bowls, and flower pots are typical hotspots. Gutters and downspouts blocked with fallen leaves or ponds with no fish are also problematic. Any other areas of standing water, such as garden furniture or toys, are popular breeding areas for mosquitoes, as well.

Your first task related to mosquito control and open water should be to empty all standing water. Also, clean out your guttering and drains to avoid collecting water. Check your whole yard for any item or area that could hold water. Then, repeat the inspection all around the perimeter of your home. Blocked storm drains or culverts can also be homes for mosquito larvae. Make sure everything is emptied, cleaned out, and that your drains and gutters are flowing freely.

When to Begin?

For most residents, there’s not a lot you can do about natural habitats such as those detailed above. You still have the marshland, lakes, rivers, creeks, and ponds within flying distance of your home. And you can’t empty the Chattahoochee! In such cases, it’s not so much a matter of preventing breeding as protecting your home.
 

 
You could wait until the eggs have hatched and the larvae have developed into adult mosquitoes. Or you can start taking steps now to be fully protected this spring. But be prepared to come across some mosquitoes even before spring. It’s not the time of year that causes these insects to perk up; it’s the temperature.

Mosquitoes become inactive below around 50 degrees, and they may hide away over winter. Many mosquitoes die in winter, but many just shelter in warm areas. They can survive in warm spots like logs, holes in trees, or even animal burrows. Their eggs can also survive over winter. It is quite possible to come across the odd mosquito flying around in winter if you have an unseasonably warm day. And when spring comes early, so do the insects.

Mosquito Barriers and Sprays

If you start planning now, you can set up a mosquito barrier to beat out the mosquitoes. One option is an automatic spray system ready to switch on when the first mosquito appears. The Mr. Mister Mosquito Control™ system comprises a network of pipes and nozzles around your yard. The system sprays the foliage around your home at preset intervals to keep mosquito populations low.

An automated misting system creates a barrier that prevents mosquitoes from passing into the area around your home. You can enjoy a barbecue or simply relax without being attacked. By planning early, you can be ready for the early spring onslaught. The is another benefit of taking action now rather than waiting until summer brings droves of mosquitoes flying around your home. If you start early, you can prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in areas of standing water around your yard. Although you ideally dealt with these areas ahead of time, it’s hard to eliminate all standing water. All it takes for mosquitoes to breed is a muddy puddle of water formed from the early spring rain.

Beginning in early spring, female mosquitoes seek blood to get the protein to make their eggs. Contrary to popular belief, the mosquitoes don’t eat the blood at all. 100% of the protein goes to the eggs. If they get into your property, they will lay their eggs in any suitable place in or around your home. Yes, you read correctly. Mosquitoes can even lay their eggs inside your home. Stagnant water in your basement, under your sinks, or even in your pet’s drinking bowl, can host mosquito eggs. You can avoid this by taking action now to get a mosquito barrier set up before peak mosquito season.

Effective prevention begins before they overrun your property, not once they are already out in force!