Just because Phoenix has a desert climate doesn’t mean homeowners get any relief from pests. Irrigation, monsoon rainfall, and other water sources ensure enough breeding sites for all species, including mosquitoes. Neighborhoods like Ahwatukee and Arcadia have irrigated lawns, while Central Phoenix & Roosevelt District have mosquitoes breeding in older storm drains. The peak season is between June and September, which is when storms create standing water and evenings have high humidity.
If your kids and family members are complaining of frequent bites and are unable to enjoy yard activities, you need to get help. Phoenix mosquito control services like Green Mango offer comprehensive plans for different neighborhoods with local technicians who understand specific challenges. In this guide, let’s talk more about professional services, but before that, let’s understand species, patterns, and causes in Phoenix.
Knowing Mosquito Infestation Patterns in Phoenix
Culex is the most distinctive species spotted in backyards here. These biting insects reproduce in standing water, such as puddles and clogged drains, and are most active after dusk. Culex mosquitoes are also the primary vectors of West Nile Virus. During the day, Aedes mosquitoes are also common, which breed in smaller containers. What are the causes? Firstly, the soil here doesn’t hold water, but urban development ensures water remains in place in neighborhoods. Irrigation creates habitats, and the warm season spans across months, which further extends pest cycles.
You should be concerned because public health reports have documented incidents of West Nile Virus. Many people, especially kids, are often allergic to bites, and not to forget, enjoying outdoor time can be a concern.
DIY for mosquito control
Supermarkets have countless mosquito sprays and other products, but do these work? The short answer is no. While you may manage to kill a few adult mosquitoes, the results are temporary. As long as breeding sites are active, populations will continue to rise. Backyard foggers are also popular among Phoenix homeowners, but the effects are for a limited time. Also, adult mosquitoes continue to hide in dense vegetation.
How Do Professionals Handle Mosquito Infestations?
- As step one, exterminators evaluate the property and identify all standing water sources. They also check whether irrigation is responsible for water pooling around patios and foundations, and if there are drainage concerns. The team will also check the vegetation to find possible issues that could be responsible for mosquito populations.
- The next step is to tackle standing water. Technicians will clear gutters, empty all unused containers and pots, clean foundations, and refill other sources. They may also recommend steps to contain irrigation-induced infestations.
- If larvae are detected during the assessments, the third step is to apply larvicide. Pest control companies only use chemicals and products that are safer and won’t harm the environment. You can always discuss your concerns if you have pets at home.
- For adult mosquitoes, barrier treatments are often helpful, and these sprays are used around patios, perimeters, and shrubs. Please note that such products do not affect pollination – a concern of many homeowners.
- Experts will also recommend landscaping ideas that will ensure there are fewer hiding spots for mosquitoes and other pests. They may recommend what plants to remove and if new ones should be added to the garden.
Depending on the property, the team will finally decide whether a follow-up inspection is required. In some cases, multiple treatments are often necessary to contain an extreme situation.
Wondering why you are seeing more mosquitoes suddenly? Get a professional pest control service in Phoenix to check the likely causes and guide you on the best measures. If your neighbors have standing water, that could be a reason for increased pest numbers.
