Welcome to Oregon, a state known for its lush landscapes and majestic forests. But beneath this serene beauty lies an uninvited guest that could turn your evening barbeque into a blood donation drive – mosquitoes.
With over 3,500 species worldwide, mosquitoes have mastered the art of annoyance. Oregon, with its wealth of natural beauty, isn’t spared from hosting a few of these pesky creatures.
If you’re sick of dealing with mosquitoes in Oregon and are ready to get back to enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest unencumbered by itchy welts, then this post is for you. We’ll tell you everything you need to know to keep yourself safe from these pests – and find out how professional mosquito control is the way to go.
What to Know About Mosquitoes in Oregon
Just like fashion trends, mosquito seasons come and go. In Oregon, the mosquito season typically runs from late spring through early fall, roughly April to October.
The fluctuating temperatures and abundant water sources make the region a perfect breeding ground for these buzzing nuisances. This may sound like a minor detail, but recognizing these patterns of behavior is your first step in defending your home against their relentless assault.
There are several mosquito species in Oregon, but two stand out as being the most dangerous and persistent:
- Culex Mosquitoes: Known carriers of the West Nile Virus, these pests prefer feeding at dawn and dusk. They breed in stagnant water, which is why you’ll often find them near ponds or uncovered rain barrels.
- Aedes Mosquitoes: Dubbed the “ankle biters”, these mosquitoes are aggressive daytime feeders. They can spread diseases such as Zika and dengue fever. They are also incredibly adaptable, breeding in both natural and man-made containers like flower pots and clogged gutters.
What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes seem to have a particular fondness for your backyard? The answer lies in several factors that convert your outdoor space into a top mosquito hangout.
One major attractant is stagnant water, which can be found in birdbaths, clogged gutters, or even the shallow puddles in plant saucers. These seemingly innocuous water sources serve as perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
Water isn’t the only thing attracting mosquitoes; lush vegetation can also be problematic. Dense shrubs and tall grass provide ideal resting spots for mosquitoes, offering them a cool refuge during the heat of the day. This greenery not only offers shade but also retains moisture, creating a double-whammy effect and a humid environment that mosquitoes thrive in.
Another factor that draws these pests is body heat and sweat. Mosquitoes are incredibly adept at detecting the carbon dioxide we exhale and are also attracted to the lactic acid present in our sweat. This combination makes humans irresistible targets, especially when you’re enjoying your time outdoors.
Even the lighting around your home can inadvertently invite mosquitoes. While bright lights might make your home more welcoming and secure, setting the mood and making it a more comfortable place for you and your family, they unfortunately also act as invitations for mosquitoes, attracting them to the area in droves.
How to Fight Back Against Mosquitoes in Oregon
While mosquitoes may be a perennial problem, there are effective ways to reduce their numbers and protect yourself from their bites:
- Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Regularly drain standing water from flower pots, birdbaths, and other containers. Clean gutters to ensure water flows freely.
- Trim Vegetation: Keep your yard well-maintained. Trim bushes and mow the lawn to reduce resting places.
- Install Screens: Ensure windows and doors are equipped with tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes outside where they belong.
- Use Repellents: Employ EPA-approved insect repellents when outdoors. Citronella candles can also help when enjoying your patio or deck.
- Light Smart: Use yellow or LED lights outdoors to reduce attraction.
Prevention is always the best first step to take, the truth is that even with the most vigilant approach, mosquitoes are still likely to find their way into your backyard. So, what now?
While it’s tempting to take mosquito control into your own hands, DIY solutions don’t always offer the most comprehensive relief.
For one, they aren’t always the most effective. Home remedies like essential oils or vinegar sprays might deter mosquitoes for a while, but they don’t address the root cause of infestations.
They’re also not always the most complete in their coverage. DIY methods often miss hidden breeding spots, leading to even more long lasting and persistent mosquito problems.
Perhaps worst of all, the misuse of chemical treatments without proper knowledge can pose dangers to pets, plants, and people.
Let the Professionals Help You Deal with Mosquitoes in Oregon
Engaging professional pest control services, like Natura Pest Control, offers a more comprehensive approach to managing mosquito infestations.
We’ll start by conducting a thorough inspection to identify and eliminate any potential breeding sites. From tire ruts to bird baths, we’ll weed out any problem areas. Then, we’ll apply targeted treatments that focus on both the larval and adult stages of the mosquitoes, an approach that offers lasting, long-term relief.
But we don’t stop there. We’ll check in regularly to monitor for re-infestation and provide you with personalized advice for your property moving forward.
Mosquitoes aren’t going away any time soon. Unfortunately, mosquitoes in Oregon are more than just a seasonal nuisance, posing genuine health risks that can come back to haunt you throughout the year.
While DIY efforts may provide temporary relief, a better solution for the long-term is to partner with a professional pest control agency like Natura Pest Control. We’ll protect your family and make sure you can enjoy your outdoor spaces, all while knowing that expert help is just a phone call away.
If you live in the Vancouver-Portland Metro area and are ready to put mosquitoes to bed for good, give Natura Pest Control a call.
