Mosquito Facts & Identification
Protect Your Property from mosquitos
Common Mosquitos in East Tennessee
Asian Tiger Mosquito
Asian tiger mosquitoes are small, about 2-10 mm long, with black bodies and distinctive white stripes on their legs and thorax. They are most active during the day and are commonly found in shaded areas, near standing water like birdbaths, clogged gutters, and containers where they lay their eggs. These mosquitoes are aggressive biters and can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and dengue fever. To reduce their presence, eliminate standing water, use insect repellents, and install screens on doors and windows.
House Mosquito
House mosquitoes are small, typically 3-7 mm long, with brownish bodies and lighter-colored bands on their abdomen. They are most active at dawn and dusk and are commonly found around stagnant water sources like birdbaths, clogged gutters, and puddles, where they lay their eggs. These mosquitoes can carry and transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and encephalitis, posing a health risk to humans and animals. To prevent infestations, eliminate standing water, use insect repellents, and install window and door screens to keep them out of homes and businesses.
Yellow Fever Mosquito
Yellow fever mosquitoes are small, about 4-7 mm long, with black bodies and white markings, including a distinct lyre-shaped pattern on their thorax. They are most active during the day and are commonly found in urban and suburban areas, breeding in small amounts of stagnant water like flowerpots, birdbaths, and clogged gutters. These mosquitoes are known carriers of serious diseases, including yellow fever, Zika virus, dengue fever, and chikungunya. To reduce their presence, eliminate standing water, use insect repellents, and install window and door screens to prevent them from entering homes.
How Do I get Rid Of Mosquitos?
Mosquito pests
To get rid of mosquitoes in East Tennessee, the most effective approach is to eliminate their breeding grounds. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, so regularly emptying birdbaths, clogged gutters, plant saucers, and any containers that collect water can significantly reduce their population. Keeping grass and vegetation trimmed, using mosquito dunks in ponds or rain barrels, and ensuring proper drainage around your property can also help.
For larger infestations, consider using outdoor mosquito traps, citronella candles, or professional pest control treatments. Mosquito-repelling plants like lavender, marigolds, and citronella can provide some natural deterrence. The best way to make sure you get rid of mosquitos and keep them away is to hire a professional. Call us to speak with a pest control technician today!
What mosquito service does Pest Ops offer?
Mosquito prevention plans
The Pest Ops mosquito control service can help eliminate current populations and prevent ongoing mosquito activity. Our approach is both multi-dimensional and inter-generational. We address mosquito eggs and breeding adults in any kind of habitat.
Our mosquito control program is seasonal and runs monthly from April through October. During the first stage of the process, one of our Knoxville mosquito control experts will look over your property to check for activity. Your assigned technician will devise a plan that is right for you and explore treatment options for the property.
Our mosquito treatment methods include:
- Barrier treatments
- Fogging and misting
- Lawn treatments
- Regular treatments throughout mosquito season
When are mosquitos active in east tennessee?
mosquito season in Knoxville
Mosquitoes in East Tennessee are most active from late spring through early fall, with peak activity occurring in the warm, humid months of June, July, and August. These pests thrive in temperatures above 50°F, meaning they typically emerge in April and remain a nuisance until the first frost in late fall. Their activity is highest at dawn and dusk, though some species, like the Asian tiger mosquito, are aggressive daytime biters.
During particularly warm winters, some mosquitoes may remain active longer than usual, especially in sheltered or indoor areas with standing water. Rainy periods can also lead to population spikes, as mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water.
Frequently ASKED QUESTIONS
hOW CAN WE HELP?
What attracts mosquitoes to humans and yards?
Humans, pets, and other animals release carbon dioxide when they breathe and put off a lot of heat while working, playing, and moving about the yard. Mosquitoes can sense the presence of a nearby body and will attack in droves for a chance of a blood meal.
Second, moisture availability is needed for mosquitoes to reproduce. Even water puddles the size of a bottle cap are enough to support a colony of hundreds.
Since it isn’t always possible to control each of these factors, you may want to seek protection from the professionals at Pest Ops.