The Mosquito Scoop
Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for visiting the Douglas County Mosquito Abatement District website. Here, you will find the answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions. Please feel free to browse these questions and answers. If you have futher questions, please feel free to contact us.
How far can mosquitoes fly?
Most species have flight ranges of 1-3 miles. If caught in an updraft into winds, mosquitoes can be carried great distances.
How much blood does a mosquito take in a meal?
Mosquitoes can take in anywhere from 0.001 to 0.01 milliliter of blood.
Why do mosquitoes feed on blood?
Female mosquitoes feed on blood so that their eggs can mature prior to laying. It serves no nourishment function. Males do not take blood meals at all. In order to obtain energy, both male and female mosquitoes feed on plant nectars.
How long do mosquitoes live?
Lifespan vary by species. Most adult female mosquitoes live 2-3 weeks. Some species that over-winter in garages, culverts and attics can live as long as 6 months.
How high do mosquitoes fly?
In general, mosquitoes that bite humans prefer to fly at heights of less than 25 feet.
Which mosquitoes transmit West Nile Virus?
Culex species is usually the primary vector.
What attracts mosquitoes to me?
Carbon dioxide is the most universally recognized mosquito attractant and draws mosquitoes from up to 35 meters. As we breathe, we exhale Carbon dioxide. Other cues include body odors, such as sweat, lactic acid, perfumes, and body movement.
Which repellent works best?
N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) remains the standard and most effective. There are a variety of mosquito repellents on the market both chemical and natural. There is some experimentation to find which works the best for your body. Also, rotating between several types helps. Follow the manufacturer’s directions. Product with Picaridin, and Oil of lemon-eucalyptus are also very effective.
How do mosquitoes get into my house?
Mosquitoes can get into any space through any tiny portal available; broken windows, screens, bathroom vents and garages.
What can I do to avoid being bitten?
If possible, avoid scheduling outdoor activities during dawn and dusk. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. Wear mosquito repellent.
How do mosquito control districts control mosquitoes?
How do mosquito control districts control mosquitoes? Integrated mosquito management methods currently employed by organized control districts are endorsed by the CDC and EPA. They employ comprehensive and specifically tailored control methods for each stage of the mosquito life cycle. Larval control through water management and source reduction is a prudent pest management practice, as is the use of the environmentally friendly EPA approved larvicides. When source elimination and larval control measures are unattainable or in the case of imminent disease, the EPA and CDC have emphasized in a published joint statement the need for considered application of adulticides. A successful mosquito management program includes the following elements:
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Larval and adult mosquito sampling (surveillance and trapping),
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Source reduction,
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Larviciding and adulticiding when indicated by surveillance,
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Resistance monitoring,
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Disease surveillance in mosquitoes,
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And public education.