Mosquito infestations create dangerous environments in neighborhoods and populated areas worldwide, but believe it or not, mosquitoes are very important to the environment. This doesn't mean you should tolerate them around your Greater Kansas City property, though – mosquitoes carry a wide variety of diseases, so an infestation puts you and your loved ones at risk of infection. Professional Kansas City Metro pest control will always be the best way to control mosquitoes around your property. Still, there are some easy, all-natural ways to repel mosquitoes that you can implement on your own.
What Is The Purpose Of Mosquitoes In Kansas City?
Despite causing over one million deaths annually, mosquitoes are essential to the environment in many different ways. They're a substantial food source for birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and less-pesky insects, and they initiate active feeding lifestyles, which helps to promote biodiversity. In addition to their nutritious value, mosquitoes are also pollinators. Female mosquitoes only require a blood meal for viable egg development, but when the necessity of procreation does not fuel them, they exist on nectar and plant juices.
A Brief History Of Mosquito Control
The necessity of pest control spans back to the birth of agriculture, roughly ten thousand years ago, but mosquito control is a much more recent development. Earlier civilizations focused solely on preventing mosquito bites with herbs, oils, and even mud, but it wasn't until the end of the 19th century that they discovered the dangers of mosquito-borne illnesses:
- 1872-1900 – scientists discover the presence of illnesses in mosquitoes.
- 1900-1929 – the use of kerosene paired with ditching and draining water sources slowly become widespread practices for mosquito control in the United States. Studies on mosquito habits begin, as well as new compounds for larvicides.
- 1929-1933 – The Great Depression stunts the growth of mosquito control.
- 1933-1940 – disputes between the effectiveness of draining local water sources stall the growth of mosquito control, and wildlife advocates raise concerns about how these efforts are damaging the ecosystem.
- 1940-1962 – World War II leads to significant advances in pesticides and repellents and, despite scientists' warning of over-reliance, DDT and DEET become widely-used chemicals for mosquito control.
- 1962-1972 – concerns about the negative effect of these chemicals grow throughout the nation, and mosquito eradication efforts are blocked.
- 1972-now – citizens demand more ecologically-friendly solutions to mosquito control, multiple states outlaw more harmful chemical pesticides, and federal lawmakers pass bills to continue scientific research in "green" pest solutions.
Mechanical and chemical efforts to curb mosquito populations were detrimental to the environment, but they also provided insight into the importance of natural water sources and mosquitoes. With more eco-friendly pest control in Kansas City, we can protect our population and our neighborhoods.
The Diseases Mosquitoes Can Transmit
The entire reason for our country's campaign for mosquito control was the discovery of diseases carried by mosquitoes, and, unfortunately, that list is very long. These are only a few of the diseases mosquitoes carry:
- Malaria
- Zika virus
- Dengue fever
- West Nile virus
- Yellow fever
- Chikungunya
- Tularemia
- Multiple strains of encephalitis
- Keystone virus
Mosquitoes are the deadliest creatures on the planet, so you don't want them hanging around your Greater Kansas City property. With the help of Augustine Exterminators, INC., you and your loved ones will stay protected from dangerous pests year-round.
Natural Ways To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Yard
There are plenty of natural ways to repel mosquitoes without the help of pest control, but your efforts won't be nearly as effective without assistance. Maintaining your home and property is the best line of defense, such as regular mowing schedules, aerating your soil, addressing any leaks and moisture problems, and removing any standing water around your property. Removing hiding spots and breeding areas around your yard will help reduce mosquito populations around your property. Still, the best way to control mosquitoes in the Greater Kansas City area is with the help of Augustine Exterminators, INC.
Our company focuses on environmentally friendly pest control methods and products, which means you don't have to compromise between harmful chemicals and dangerous pests. We offer comprehensive pest control plans that are affordable for any budget, and we work closely with our customers to ensure complete satisfaction. Don't let mosquitoes keep you from enjoying outdoor activities this year.