Mosquitoes are maddening enough for adults: think how much worse they torment babies. With their delicate skin and lack of mobility, babies are perfect prey for bloodsuckers.
Moreover, babies and children are typically bitten more by mosquitoes than by any other type of insect.
Here are proven tips on how to protect your baby from mosquitoes.
1. Keep your baby away from mosquitoes
Timing and location are essential. Your primary aim should always be to keep mosquitoes away from your baby as well as your baby away from mosquitoes.
That means keeping babies inside at peak biting times (usually dawn and dusk), and staying away from pools of still water where mosquitoes breed. Also flower gardens and unconvered foods attract skeeters.
Check your house and yard for stagnant water – a puddle in a blocked gutter can harbor thousands of mosquito larvae.
Window screens stop the little blighters from flying into the house, and a net around your baby’s crib or play pen will stop any that get past the screen.
For travelling around, you can buy elasticated mosquito nets which fit snugly to a pram, stroller or car seat.
3. Keep the air moving
Insects find it hard to navigate when there’s a breeze, so try using a desk fan rather than turning on the air conditioning or opening the windows.
Research shows that fan-generated wind is a practical means of protecting from mosquitoes.
4. Use traps and repelling devices
Ultrasonic pest repellers, such as the popular Rid-Tech Ultrasonic Pest Repeller, work wonders according to many people. Critics claim these devices are useless but the abundant positive reviews indicate otherwise.
Added benefit of these ultrasonic devices is that they repel other bugs you don’t want near your baby such as spiders and scorpions too.
Another popular option are electronic insect zappers. Obviously you don’t want to hang a big bug-zapping lightin your baby’s room but placing one outside near the nursery can help reduce the amount of mosquitoes swarming nearby.
Chrysanthemum flowers provide an unexpected alternative: they give off a natural variant of the chemical repellent picaridin. And happily, a vase of chrysanthemums looks much nicer in your baby’s room than a buzzing blue trap.
6. Cover up
When your baby is outside, try to cover as much of their skin as possible, including their head and feet.
Socks under sandals, hats with flaps, long-sleeved t-shirts and trousers – the more clothing, the better.
Mosquitoes can bite through knitted clothing but have trouble with woven fabric, so a stiff cotton shirt will provide more protection than a stretchy swimsuit.
make sure as little skin is exposed where mosquitoes are present
7. Dress your baby in neutral-colored clothing
Dark or bright-colored clothes and/ or flowery prints can make your baby more vulnerable to sight hunters so add an extra layer of protection.
Beige, khaki, olive and other neutral colors do not attract (or in lesser degree) insects including mosquitoes.
8 Avoid using scented lotions or soaps
There are hundreds of different species of mosquito – some find their prey by sight, others sense the carbon dioxide on your breath, others are attracted to the smell of a human body.
Strong-smelling skincare products can attract the mosquitoes which hunt by scent.
9. Use synthetic repellents
Once you’ve cleared mosquitoes away from the area and wrapped your baby in layers, chemical repellents are the final step to deter any remaining mozzies.
The insecticides DEET and picaridin can both be used on babies from two months old.
Mosquito repellents are rated by the percentage of active ingredient they contain – usually 5% to 30% for DEET, 7 to 20% for picaridin.
Repellent products with that contain up to 30 percent DEET
A higher percentage doesn’t mean that the repellent is more effective, only that it lasts longer.
Insect repellents are safe if used as directed, so always remember to follow the instructions closely.
Apply repellent sparingly to your baby’s exposed skin, do not apply to the skin underneath his or her clothes.
Spray the lotion onto your own hands before rubbing onto your baby’s exposed skin, so there’s no risk of them inhaling the vapor.
Avoid rubbing repellent too close to your baby’s eyes, mouth, or ears, and keep it off his hands in case he sucks on them.
10. Think about sunscreen
Some products contain both bug repellent and sunscreen, which is a convenient way to protect your baby quickly before short trips outside.
They aren’t recommended for longer periods of time, because sunscreen needs reapplying far more frequently than insect repellent.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against using products that combine sunscreen and DEET because:
DEET should not be applied more than once a day in children.
WebMD refers to as study that showed that combining sunscreen with DEET caused the skin to absorb the insect repellent more than three times faster than when used alone.
If you’re planning to apply sunscreen and insect repellent separately, make sure to apply the sunscreen first – otherwise it can mask the effectiveness of the insect repellent.
Many parents are wary of using strong chemicals on their baby’s delicate skin, and everything from olive oil to woodsmoke has been recommended as a natural mosquito repellent.
Oil of lemon eucalyptus, or PMD, is the only alternative remedy recommended by the American Centre for Disease Control. It has been proven to be as effective as DEET, but needs reapplying more frequently.
Officially, it isn’t recommended by the CDC for children under 3: this is because it hasn’t been tested on babies, not because it is believed to be dangerous.
Repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus are sold under the Off! Familycare Botanicals as well as Cutter and Repel Natural brands.
Other science-backed plant-based mosquito repellents include neem, catnip, hairy basil, and verbena; carriers such as coconut oil, soybean oil, and vanillin can help to boost their efficiency.
These pungent plants can reduce bites by 70-100%. The problem is that many natural remedies are effective against only certain species of mosquito, unlike synthetic repellents which repel all types.
12. Treat your kid’s clothing
To reduce the risk of bites still further, you can apply repellent to your baby’s clothing as well as their skin. This can be as simple as spraying your baby’s clothes with the same repellent you’re applying to their skin.
For a longer-lasting solution, you can treat their clothes with permethrin; the chemical is odorless to humans and will repel insects for 5-6 washes.
The bottom line
Physical blocks like nets and fans will keep away most of the mosquitoes, and insect repellent are likely to do the rest. Be smart about where and when you take your baby as well as clothing and skin care products you use.
Enjoy summer with your baby this year, instead of worrying about bug bites and diseases.
Not Recommended
Citronella candles
In studies, citronella candles and torches have been shown to ward off the little blood-suckers to some extent. These candles produce smoke that confuses mosquitoes, thus interfering with their ability to smell us and find us.
There are some considerable downsides though.
Research also shows that their range of effectiveness is very limited, less than 2 metres and then only if there’s no breeze.
What’s more is that research has found that there are large particles in the smoke these candles produce.
These aerosol emissions may raise concerns about how safe it is to regularly breathe in this smoke. Not something you will want to burn in your baby’s bedroom.
Mosquitoes are the world’s most hated insect. In many areas they carry deadly diseases; even in places where mosquitoes are technically harmless, the itching from their bites can drive you crazy. Nothing ruins a summer’s evening faster than a swarm of bloodsuckers.
An effective mosquito repellent is a must if you’re spending time outside in warm weather. There are dozens of different formulations available, from scary high-DEET insecticides to fragrant herbal concoctions.
The trouble with chemical repellents is that you have to keep re-applying every few hours, which can be a real inconvenience if you’re spending long periods of time outdoors.
And there’s always the chance of missing a spot, which means mosquitoes will make a feast of your single bare patch of skin.
Covering up can help to reduce bites – long sleeves, trousers, closed-toe shoes. But just covering up isn’t enough: thin or stretchy fabrics won’t protect you.
To prevent mosquito bites, dress wisely. You can either block the mosquitoes physically, or use a chemical barrier which repels them.
it takes more than a cork hat to protect yourself from mosquitoes
1) Fabric
Knitted fabrics contain millions of tiny holes which can be easily pierced by a mosquito’s sharp proboscis. Most athletic clothes (like t-shirts and base layers) are made from knit fabrics, which means standard outdoors gear may not protect you from bites.
Tough woven textures provide better protection; the firmer the fabric the better. A tightly-woven nylon or polyester shirt will physically block the mosquitoes from getting to you.
The drawback is that this sort of fabric can feel quite stiff and uncomfortable, so look for fabrics which contain 5-10% spandex or elastane for stretch.
2) Style
The ultimate mosquito barrier is woven polyester. But this can be quite sweaty, so make sure your clothing has extra ventilation to improve breathability: look for underarm mesh, half-zips, and roll-up sleeves, as well as wicking technology which pulls sweat away from your skin.
3) What you should know about color
There’s a common myth that mosquitoes will be attracted to bright colors, but this is only half true. Male mosquitoes feed on flowers; it’s the female mosquitoes which suck blood, and they generally hunt by scent rather than sight.
Splashy clothing might make males think you are a colorful plant, but they will buzz around you harmlessly.
Bloodsucking females follow the smell of your sweat or the carbon dioxide on your breath; they wouldn’t notice your clothing if you wore a Carmen Miranda headdress.
Dull-colored clothing can help to stop insects swarming around you, but it won’t make you any less likely to be bitten.
4) Headnets and hats
In areas where the bugs are really dense, a headnet is a lifesaver. It not only prevents bites, but also stops bugs flying into your eyes and mouth.
Nets such as the best-selling Qibox headnet, are commonly held in place by a firm-brimmed hat at the top and a ring of metal at the bottom, to keep the netting away from your face.
An elasticated bottom stops creepy-crawlies getting under the net from below. Nets come in various thicknesses: mosquito netting is loosely woven, whereas midge (no-see-um) netting is finer to prevent smaller bugs from squeezing through.
Unless midges are a real problem in your area, mosquito netting is usually a better bet.
The plastic in the stiff hat brim can make you sweaty, and the looser weave of mosquito netting makes it cooler as well as easier to see through.
5) Inbuilt mosquito repellent
If you’re sick of just blocking mozzies and want to actively repel them, try mosquito-repellent clothing. It’s used by the US Army in tropical areas, as they don’t want their soldiers laid low by malaria or swatting bugs when they’re trying to creep unseen through the undergrowth.
The active ingredient in mosquito-repellent clothing is a powerful insecticide called permethrin. Odorless to humans, it repels not only mosquitoes but a variety of other biting insects, from midges to ticks.
Clothes are imbued with permethrin in the factory: the beneficial effects are said to last for up to 70 washes, which is the lifespan of an average garment.
“when permethrin is infused to fabric the bug repellent is more effective and longer-lasting when compared with spraying on the skin”
Mosquito-repellent clothes offer 99% protection against mosquitoes for the areas of skin they cover. Permethrin not only repels mosquitoes, but kills them dramatically if they do land.
Your clothes will protect the skin for a short distance around – so a short-sleeved shirt, for example, will also stop your neck and forearms from getting bitten.
You will still need repellent on exposed areas of skin, but you don’t have to worry getting nibbled underneath your collar or cuffs.
“permethrin is the only pesticide approved by the EPA for pre-treated fabrics”
6) How to care for mosquito repellent clothing
The great thing is that these clothes are easy to care for; you don’t need to take any steps to preserve the protection, just chuck them in the washing machine with a standard laundry detergent.
Dry-cleaning should be avoided as will remove the protective coating – but not many people dry-clean their mosquito nets anyway.
7) Do you want a physical or chemical barrier?
It really depends on your personal preferences, and how bad the bugs are in your area.
The big benefit of mosquito-repellent clothing is that you can use less insect repellent on your skin – you’ll need to apply it only to the exposed areas.
It’s a great choice if you have sensitive skin, because the chemicals stick to your clothes rather than your skin. The permethrin soak is applied to clothes after they have been finished, and it doesn’t affect the feeling of the fabric or reduce its moisture-wicking properties.
On the other hand, these clothes are expensive – about $10 more than standard travel gear, which isn’t cheap to start with – and the repellent effect decreases slowly with washing.
Permethrin is also extremely deadly to aquatic life. Though the amount in a single item of clothing is small, some consumers worry about the cumulative effect of permethrin soaking into rivers from hikers’ gear.
8) Should you wear treated clothing from head to toe?
The effect of permethrin is much more noticeable on thin fabrics, such as t-shirts. Clothes like jackets and hiking trousers are usually thick enough to discourage mosquitoes, whether or not they have been treated.
If you like the idea of mosquito-repellent gear but don’t want to replace your whole travel wardrobe, consider getting chemically-treated hats or wristbands. Sweat and friction mean that the face and hands are the hardest areas to protect, so a fug of insecticide from your clothes will help to prevent bites.
You can buy permethrin-treated socks, such as these BugsAway Purdom Hiker Socks which are an excellent choice even if you choose not to use the repellent on the rest of your clothes. They repel ticks and other nasty bugs too.
By their nature, socks have to be made of stretchy knitted material, and there’s no way you can wrap a physical barrier like woven polyester around your feet.
This means that you ankles are like an all-you-can-eat buffet for insects. Insecticide-treated socks will not only stop bites, they will also discourage ticks from making their way up your legs.
9) Are there other options?
Commercially-made mosquito repellent clothing tends to be designed for travellers and hikers. Everything is sturdy and practical, but there’s a fairly limited range of styles and colors.
If you don’t like what’s available, it’s possible to mosquito-proof any item of clothing by soaking it in diluted permethrin at home. The effect will last for 5-6 washes, and works for any type of fabric.
You can also buy the chemical in a spray bottle to spritz onto your clothes: this will only last for a couple of washes, but it’s a quick and easy treatment.
10) What else do you need to consider?
It sounds obvious, but many people forget that mosquito-blocking clothing also needs to be comfortable. Whether you choose chemical treatments or a physical barrier, make sure that the clothes are breathable and easy to wash.
Present-day mosquito repellent clothing has come a long way in terms of sporting breathable, odor-free fabric that feels soft to the skin and does not get sticky from sweating .
Look for features like fast-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics, mesh and zips for ventilation, and SPF protection for sunny days.
The Dalai Lama famously said,
“Anyone who thinks they are too small to make a difference, has never slept in a room with a mosquito.”
The little pests get everywhere. This summer, you can rest easy, knowing that your clothes will protect you from bugs and bites.
Whether you’re backpacking in the mountains of South Dakota or the South American rain forests, a mosquito net is a mandatory camping supply.
These bugs are a nuisance at best and deadly disease carriers at worst. Fortunately, there are hundreds of products on the market to fit all kinds of situations.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can even get mosquito nets made of cotton or organic silk.
Below is a guide for picking the best mosquito nets for travel and camping.
How Mosquito Nets Work
Mesh size
Insect nets and window screens with a mesh size of 1.2 mm halt mosquitoes. Smaller holes, from 0.6 mm stop other biting bugs such as no-see-ums and biting midges.
Breatheability
Keep an eye out for how much holes per square inch the net you are considering has. Insect nets generally have 156 to up to 400 holes. 400 already protects you against midges.
Nets with a higher hole count have smaller holes meaning they allow less air to pass through. This reduces air circulation inside which may cause it to feel hot or clampy.
Treated nets
Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) are considered approximately twice as effective as untreated nets.
The World Health Organization recommends mosquito nets treated with permethrin, a chemical that is harmless to humans but fatal to mosquitoes and other insects.
Spraying permethrin onto a non-treated net can deter insects for a short period of time, but manufactured nets with the chemical embedded in their fibers are far longer lasting and may never need replacement.
The chemical is so potent that mosquitoes usually ignore holes in the nets because the odor of the permethrin is so repugnant. Insecticide treated nets kill mosquitoes that contact the nets.
Other insecticides include deltamethrin, and company brands such as Zi Technology.
the benefits of sleeping under a mosquito net
Which is the best mosquito net for travel?
Picking the ideal net for your travel needs depends on how you travel. Backpacking ask for a net that is as light and compact as possible.
When you go camping and can take your net out of the trunk of your car to haul it with you to the camp site a 10 minute walk down the path you can opt for a slightly larger and heavier net.
Here’s a list of the different types of nets along with their advantages and disadvantages to help you select what’s right for your traveling needs.
Free-Standing Nets
Free-standing mosquito nets are basically small tents. They are held together by flexible metal or plastic frames that can “pop-up” and condense.
They come in different sizes and can be set up within a larger tent, on cots or on top of a mattress. These nets usually have a base sewn in (tarp floor), so once zipped they are impenetrable to critters.
If you travel without checked baggage these are probably not an option for you as they are unlikely to fit carry-on luggage. Therefore, for the minimalist backpacker, a smaller type of mosquito net is preferable.
Pros:
Little set up required
Versatile for indoor or outdoor use
Spacious
Protects against cockroaches and bed bugs too
Cons:
Even when condensed, they can still be bulky and heavy to transport
Supports are often susceptible to getting bent and are difficult to repair
Frame /poles add to weight
A bestseller is the SansBug Free-Standing Pop-Up Mosquito-Net. At 2,5 pounds it’s lightweight and is set up and taken down in no time. You just throw it in the air and it lands as a full-fledged bug shelter (keep your distance).
These simple nets hang from one or two suspension points and are sometimes supported by a rod. They are perfect for draping over a sleeping bag or bed.
They make great additions to hammocks too. Make sure to tuck netting under your sleeping bag for maximum protection.
Pros:
Inexpensive
Easy to set up and take down
Compact and easy to carry making them great for backpacking and other forms of light travel.
Cons:
Less enclosed area than free-standing nets, which can result in poorer air circulation and stuffiness
Feel warmer than other, more spacious nets
One of your best options when getting a ridge net is the Eagles Nest Outfitters Guardian Bug Net.
Especially great if you’re going to places where it gets cold at night as it adds a few degrees of warmth. Lightweight at 16 ounces, blocks no-see-ums and fits all ENO hammocks.
Box Mosquito Nets
Box nets are the sturdiest and most comfortable option and are ideal for longer term settlements. They are often used in places like hospitals or hotels and are easiest to set up over a bed frame with posts, but they can be used outside if supported by poles and rods.
Pros:
More spacious than all other options
Optimal air circulation resulting in cooler temperatures
Often available in a two person version
Robust (often feature more densely woven netting for extra protection)
Cons:
Requires extensive work to set up and disassemble (4 points)
May require additional special purpose frames to hold up
Heavy
A popular model is the self-supporting Kamp-Rite Insect Protection System. At 6 pounds it’s in a whole other league than a featherlight wedge net but it’s still popular among backpackers.
Its waterproof rain fly robust fabric keep the tiniest bugs out but also protect you from larger foes such as soldier ants and nasty spiders.
Bell Mosquito Nets
Bell mosquito nets hang from a single suspension point like a chandelier. They have a spreader under the apex to maximize the area under the net, which gives it a bell shaped appearance.
Usually, the lower edges are reinforced with heavier fabric to weigh down the net and protect from wear and tear.
Pros:
Only requires one suspension point
Highly versatile for tents and bedrooms
More visually appealing than other options
Often available in a two person version
Cons:
Bulky and heavy to transport
Suspension point must be very strong to support the net
Hammock Mosquito Nets
While there are plenty of do-it-yourself guides online for making a hammock net, getting a hammock with a net built-in ensures that you’ll be safely sealed and protected from mosquitoes and other insects.
Pros:
Very comfortable for sleeping and relaxing
A wide variety of options to choose from
Cons:
Requires a bit of set up
More difficult to transport, when packed, sizes range from a folded sweat shirt to a bike helmet.
Therefore useful for travel but not for backpacking and other situations that require carrying limited quantities of luggage.
Besides separate hammock nets you can also opt for a mosquito-proof hammock. A popular and well-reviewed choice is the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter hammock.
It provides enough space to be able to drink a tropical beer or read your Lonely Planet without feeling tucked in. A great solution for bug-free relaxing in your yard too.
How to hang your mosquito net
Generally hanging kits are already included. Also, rooms in hostels, hotels and other tourist accommodations in areas where mosquitoes are an issue are commonly equipped with suspension points to hang your net from.
Wrapping it up
Just because you love the outdoors doesn’t mean you have to be lunch for all of nature’s critters.
Whether you stay at home or plan on traveling to hot humid parts of the world, make sure to invest in a permethrin treated mosquito net.
Together with a good personal insect repellent it will make your next trip safer and more comfortable so you can keep traveling with peace of mind.
No more itchy bites, infected and swollen welts, and risking malaria, yellow fever and other life-threatening diseases.
A good net is like your own insect-free fortress, it allows you to enjoy the outdoors without having to search for cover inside at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes start bugging you.
Which type of mosquito net for traveling do you prefer?
Do you too hate bugs with a passion? When mosquito season starts many of us are ready declare war to the infuriating gits. With all the mayhem mosquitoes cause, the analogy of war isn’t that far fetched.
Others liken the battle against the bugs to sports. The bug-a-salt is a typical example of making a sport out of killing the pesky insects. Better have some fun while you’re at it right?
In a similar fashion many of us take up our ‘tennis racket-like’ handheld zappers.
You may have wondered, do handheld mosquito zappers (aka mosquito bats) work?
How do electric mosquito rackets work?
They may look like kids toy tennis rackets but then in a version that employs a voltage of between 500 and 1500 Volt.
In fact, for various situations they proof invaluable parts of effective mosquito control. Wielding such a battery powered gadget gives you an advantage over being without one (more in a bit).
The paddle that consists of metal mesh that conducts an electric current. On contact it delivers an electric shock (when you press the button(s) on the handle) electrocuting mosquitoes and other pests.
handheld mosquito zapper
All you need to do is swing the racket, and hit the bug with it, and it will be dead. There are models available in a lot of designs spread over a large range of prices.
The main question,
Do they work?
You bet ‘cha.
It has been estimated that US citizens purchase over 17.5 million of these devices annually. Just think about it, they wouldn’t if these things were useless.
These ‘skeeter beaters’ are so popular because they are easy to operate due to their highly uncomplicated designs.
But there are more reasons why they are so popular.
Electric bug zapper benefits
All natural. One of the major benefits is that bugs can be killed without having to use any toxic chemicals. Synthetic repellents and other harsh substances are damaging to the skin and are also poisonous to breathe in (Aerosol sprays can trigger asthma attacks )
Shockingly easy to use. Using a zapper is less tedious as you don’t have to sit and wait for the bug to land on you giving it a chance to bite or suck blood. Instead you can zap the racket around, killing the bugs in flight.
“I love my bug swatter because I can easily kill mosquitoes near my ear and gnats hovering in front of my nose.”
Versatile. Another, major benefit of these rackets is that they are not limited to mosquitoes only, but take care of any bug that comes in contact with it.
You can get rid of any bug that might be annoying you.
What about those ultra-pesky no see ums, these swatters work wonders in killing them off. Gnats aren’t safe anymore either.
Fruit flies too better keep away from your summer beer or red wine because they will get zapped.
Suffer from wasp phobia? These tools will give you a stick to beat those little devils with. The stinging bugs may take a second to zap. Just keep the button pressed andonce they make contact with the metal mesh the electric current will make them stick, zapping them seconds afterwards.
So, when you get a racket with substantial charge to give a good, strong shock, and treat it like a pest control device, instead of just an average swatter, it can be a highly efficient way to get rid of any flying insects that you may find irritating.
Safe for indoor and outdoor use. As long as used according to directions and common sense. (We all have that one family member..)
Fun factor. At night they’re like fireworks, frying tiny bugs like crazy. Sparks jumping over to your flying foes, dazing them into their path to their maker. Electrified flies, dropped on the floor, a satisfying plume of smoke rising from their carcasses.
Portable. Because these bug zappers are inexpensive, light-weight (about 10 ounces) and portable, they’re perfectly suitable for outdoor trips such as camping, hiking, fishing, sports events and road trips.
Batteries last a long time. They practically all run on 2 AA batteries or 2 C batteries that will last for months and months on end. If not longer.
Cheap as chips. A few bucks will get you a swatter. A few more for a more robust and powerful model.
Downsides of mosquito zappers
Not flexible. Over-enthusiastic use may result in broken zappers. These swatters are mostly made up of hard and brittle plastic, instead of flexible plastics, and therefore whacking against hard surfaces can break or crack them. (Don’t be ashamed, we all have the urge to smack those skeeters real hard from time to time)
Really small insects can’t be hit when on a wall. Of course there’s a solution to this minor holdback. Instead of hitting the bug resting on hard surfaces, just try to scare it into the air first, or let it fly towards the racket.
You may occasionally shock yourself. Even though these zappers are considered safe, some precautions need to be taken.
Some zappers have dead screens on one side of the zapper, while others don’t; however you can experience heavy electric shocks if your skin comes in direct contact with the charged surfaces, which isn’t too hard if you’re aimlessly swatting the racket around.
Especially if you’re having co-ordination problems, are overly curious, or have had one beer too much).
FAQ: Good to know about mosquito zappers
Most zappers come with switches and buttons, so that when turned off, they do not give out electric shocks, but due to the installation of capacitors in some zappers, the charge is held longer, which at times might result in electric shocks.
Q: Are portable bug zappers dangerous?
A: Most electric handheld bug zappers conform to electrical safety standards for humans. The charge they emit is very limited. For the same reason, the initial shock these swatters is give off is usually inadequate to kill flies.
These bug zappers need to be kept away from children and pets; those little fingers and wet noses are not as immune to electric shocks as adult humans are, and even when these shocks might not actually kill people, they can be highly painful.
The electrical sparks generated by these bug zappers can also, sometimes ignite flammable fumes and start fires. Therefore, it must be made certain that nothing flammable is used around them, such as lighter fluids, hair spray, gas for the lawnmower, or any other place where an open flame might be undesirable.
All in all, these hand-held, sporty bug zapping gadgets do serve the purpose of getting rid of most annoying bugs flying around you.
Whether you are lounging in your hammock in the yard, sitting on your freshly mowed lawn or when inside the house.
Just like skewers and turners, mosquito rackets are essential barbecue tools.
Lets face it, having an effective swatter at hand at barbecues is a whole lot more pleasant than spraying harsh fogs of insecticide near your family and the food.
Don’t pop bugs over food though, they will drop right down in your coleslaw.
Reviews: which zapper to get?
The Executioner
Sturdy material, not likely to break.
High quality electronics
Powerful. Even hornets and wasps pop immediately on contact.
Runs on two long-lasting AA batteries.
The Pro version is more powerful than many other zappers because it uses two C batteries
The larger ‘Pro’ version is relatively long and large surface for a better reach and easier contact
“Emits a satisfying electric blue flash when it effortlessly electrifies mosquitos and other bugs.”
Update: The more powerful Executioner PRO has been discontinued on Amazon. It’s still available on other sites but at very steep (read: outrageous) prices ($40 to $80).
Zap Master RMBZ300P
Powerful with 2750 volts of electricity it has a 100% kill rate.
Its fine mesh makes it ideal if you suffer from fruit fly infestations.
features a red LED that lights up when you push the button (if it doesn’t you know it’s time to replace batteries)
The mesh grid stays charged for about a minute after releasing the button
“We had a sudden fruit flies outbreak and our other zappers did not have a fine enough mesh so some fruit flies escaped through the wires. The Zap Master doesn´t let them get away.”
Bugging insects are annoying as hell. Mosquitoes and the diseases they bring are causing serious public health concerns so controlling the pests is crucial.
One note though.
Please don’t kill honey bees or bumble bees.
We really need them. That aside, they don’t do harm and even if you’re allergic, generally, the smartest thing to do is not react, accept they are close and they will go off. It’s like they can feel aggression or acceptance and act accordingly.
Even though they’re not toys, using a mosquito swatter can be a thrill (no need to be holier than the pope). For effortless bug zapping, check out these popular bug zappers.
Want to have a true blast? Set your sights on slaughter with the Bug-A-Salt 2.0 bug salt shooter definitely the most fun way to kill ’em dead.
Whether you use your backhand swing, employ your forehand and knock their lights out, mosquitoes and other bugs are killed fast without the use of chemicals.
Nothing beats the experience of having fun outside. The simple joy of the relaxing touch of a cool breeze outdoors is hard to beat.
But there’s one spoiler everybody hates; bugs! Particularly mosquitoes.
Aside from the obvious annoyance that they bring, there’s also a risk that the victim may contract some of the life threatening diseases that only these tiny vampires spread.
They carry bacteria and viruses that cause dengue, malaria, yellow fever, West Nile, and chikungunya.
From childhood, almost every individual has a preconceived notion about mosquitoes. Some may be true but majority are just myths or old age beliefs. Here’s a comprehensive list of the most common myths people have about mosquitoes:
Myth #1 All mosquitoes feed on human blood
Most people think that all mosquitoes bite and feed on human blood. But if this is true, why do you think majority of mosquitoes choose to live in the wild or outdoors instead of the city centers where there are millions of humans to prey on?
The truth is; there are approximately 3500 mosquito species on the planet. And each specie has its own favorite food source from fruits, nectar, animal and human blood. And from the few species that bite humans, did you know that only the females do so?
So when you happen to swat a mosquito on your arm or leg, you can be certain that it’s a female trying to produce some eggs with the help of your blood.
Myth #2 The more blood they suck, the bigger the welt
The size of a mosquito bite welt has nothing to do with the amount of blood drawn by a mosquito. It has to do with how your immune system responds to the skeeter’s saliva that’s been injected into your skin.
Myth #3 Disease-causing mosquitoes are only located in Africa and the Tropics
Majority of the news reports concerning the spread of mosquito-related diseases are on Africa and the Tropical regions.
This makes Americans believe that such diseases are only confined on these regions and can’t reach the US. This belief is false. Although the population of mosquitoes in colder countries is relatively less than those located in the south, the risk of you getting a disease from a mosquito bite is always there.
Perhaps, one of the reasons why news reports in the US don’t stress these diseases much compared to the countries in the South is that we have better ways in managing and treating them unlike in certain African, Asian, and Latin American countries.
And did you know that certain disease-causing mosquitoes now present in the US actually originated from the south particularly in Asia?
The Asian tiger mosquito which causes dengue, yellow fever, West Nile, dog heartworm, and chikungunya are thriving in the temperate, marshy, and wet southern states like Louisiana, Missouri, and Ohio, etc.
Are you pregnant? Have a sweet blood? Or, are you fond of eating certain foods like beer? Our next myth is on the notion that mosquitoes tend to become picky when it comes to their prey.
People believe that mosquitoes are more attracted to pregnant women, those with certain blood types, and those who love certain foods.
Experts note that mosquitoes can bite humans regardless of age, gender, blood chemistry, or food preferences.
The only thing that makes you more attractive is your body heat and the amount of carbon dioxide you emit.
So if you tend to sweat more, have a warmer body than your seatmates, or exhale more, chances are, mosquitoes can easily sense and track your location.
Pregnant women tend to produce more body heat, so this explains why they are a good target for mosquitoes.
Myth #5 Mosquitoes have 47 teeth
Mosquitoes don’t have teeth at all. The tiny hose or needle-like thing you see attached to their mouths is called the proboscis.
It’s like a pointed straw that can be used to sip blood. Instead of teeth, the tip of the proboscis has 47 sharp edges that make it easier for a mosquito to punch a hole in your skin.
Myth #6 A mosquito can explode if you flex your muscles
Perhaps, you are thinking of over-supplying a mosquito with blood to give it a taste of its own medicine and just explode.
This is false since mosquitoes have their own control as to the amount of blood they can sip. Additionally, flexing your muscles or making similar movements may just signal the mosquito to fly away.
Myth #7 Mosquitoes pee on you when they bite
After mosquitoes have filled their bellies with too much blood, they have to excrete something out of their body to still be able to escape and fly.
For the Anopheles mosquitoes, it’s actually a plasma fluid not urine. For others, they secret fluid-like waste and people just used the generic term urine for it.
Myth #8 Natural repellents are the best solution for mosquitoes
Almost everyone now is going green or finding natural and alternative solutions to the most common problems we have.
So you might think that choosing natural repellents is probably the best way to scare off mosquitoes. Not to mention the many affirmative testimonials you see on TV, right?
These repellents come in the form of extracts, essential oils, or the plant itself like citronella, lavender, peppermint, etc.
Yes, they all have their mosquito-repelling properties but based on actual studies, they are less effective than their commercial or chemical counterparts.
It’s lesser effective when you use the spray or candle-based repellents for one obvious reason; when the wind blows in a certain direction, that supposedly blanket of protection is easily distorted.
With natural repellents it’s similar to mosquito repellent plants, technically they work but there are quite a few buts and ifs.
Myth #9 The latest gadgets and devices are effective
If the natural repellents are less effective, then perhaps the latest devices like the ultrasonic sound emitter and electric traps should do the trick?
Unfortunately not. Don’t buy the ultrasonic device yet that promises to drive away and even kill mosquitoes, cockroaches, rodents, etc.
Such wonderful claims you see on TV are all just part of the marketing ploy by their sellers. There’s no solid scientific evidence yet providing these claims.
Try that ultrasonic sound emitting device and you will see the frustrating results. If you have a high resolution camera or scope, the mosquitoes might even be laughing at your new trick.
On the other hand, electric mosquito trappers and killers can be effective IF and ONLY IF you could lure the mosquitoes inside them. Remember that mosquitoes are attracted more to heat and CO2 emission than light. Bug zappers work for most people too.
However, there are gadgets that do work (depending on your skills) and provide a metric tonne of fun. We’re talking about the Bug-A-Salt Camofly 2.0.
Myth #10 Chemical repellents are dangerous for me and my family
The thing that might be keeping you from trying the lotion and other commercial repellents is the possible risk on you especially your children’s health. Majority of commercial repellents contain the DEET or Diethyl-meta-toluamide as their main insect-repelling ingredient.
If you are buying a cheap, all-green, organic, ‘wellness-guru-approved’ repellent which wasn’t approved by the FDA or other relevant agencies, then there’s a reason for you to worry. But if you are going for the legitimate and trusted brands, there’s really nothing to worry.
DEET is relatively safe and regulatory agencies often put concentration limits which can be put into lotions and other products for human use. Of course, it could be harmful if you try to eat the repellent lotion instead of putting it into your skin.
Myth #11 Eating garlic, banana, and taking vitamins lets your body repel mosquitoes
Another common misconception is that you can actually make your body less attractive for mosquitoes by consuming certain types of foods like garlic and banana and taking vitamins primarily B-complex.
Trying to drive away these little vampires with garlic has always been part of the traditional belief.
But again, there’s no scientific evidence yet proving that the body can become a natural repellent if you eat or take garlic. If it’s effective for you, maybe the mosquitoes are just afraid of your bad garlic breath.
Another common misconception is that garlic is an effective repellent. It does have a moderate repellent effect when rubbed on the skin [93], although there are far more effective repellents available that also have a more pleasing odour. The consumption of garlic however, has not been shown to be effective at repelling mosquitoes. Source: PubMed
B-complex on the other hand may be effective with certain skin and parasite concerns like fleas but it’s also not proven to drive away mosquitoes.
Eating bananas will not attract mosquitoes and taking vitamin B-12 will not repel them; these are old wives’ tales.
says, Jonathan Day, professor of medical entomology at the University of Florida, Vero Beach.
Myth #12 Bats can help you solve the mosquito problem
You might have also heard that bats eat mosquitoes so you are interested in making them your next best friend.
Skeeters are simply too small for bats to make interesting prey. This PubMed study notes:
..mosquitoes generally represent only a small proportion of bat diet.
The fact is that bats eat both fruits and insects. And for those insect-eating species, they really don’t like mosquitoes that much unless of course when there’s no longer anything to eat. Maybe you’ll have better chances with house lizards.
There are two ways as to how people think dryer sheets drive mosquitoes away. The first one is by simply carrying it in their pocket as an alternative repellent. For this one, it hasn’t been proven to be effective.
The second way is to use the dryer sheet to wipe all their body sweat and throw it away or place it somewhere else to trick mosquitoes and prevent them from targeting you.
This method is not recommended especially since they are not meant to be used for the body or skin. Instead of doing something good, it might just cause problems for you in the future.
Myth #14 Mosquitoes don’t cause problems in the summer or dry seasons
If you are observant enough, you may notice that mosquitoes are more active and the numbers are huge during the wet or rainy seasons.
But this doesn’t mean that there won’t be mosquito problems during droughts or dry conditions.
There’s a greater tendency for them to breed and live in stagnant and highly concentrated water. As the water gets more concentrated, it’s getting dirtier meaning the chances for a mosquito to bring viruses and diseases could even be higher.
What’s more
Also, according to Snopes, Listerine and lemon dish soap do not repel skeeters (#15, #16). What isn’t a myth but a cold hard fact is the following,
The more often you get bitten by a particular mosquito species, the less you are likely to react to that species over time (less itch, smaller welts, welts that disappear sooner)
The bad news? There are more than 3,000 species worldwide.
With a good plan and a structured approach, keeping your home mosquito free in summer is absolutely doable. And you can do it safely and without poisons too.
The key is to start at the source – their breeding grounds, and to move logically through your outside spaces, into your house and onto your person.
At every step there are actions you can take which will make the difference between a nightmare summer and the relaxed happy break you deserve. Take a look at our 17 point system for ridding your home of pesky mosquitoes.
1. Eliminate standing water in the yard and home
You’ll remember from elementary school biology that mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Particularly if you live in a climate with summer rain, it’s vital that you do a regular check to ensure that stagnant water isn’t collecting in birdbaths, puddles and other receptacles in your garden.
Repair dripping taps and hose pipes, and empty blocked gutters and half full watering cans.
All of these encourage breeding, as does moisture collected around your compost heap. Invest in a sealed unit for your compost and you’ll eliminate another important source of mosquito infestation.
Mosquitoes not only breed in the outdoors but are just as happy to lay eggs in flower vases or other water containers. Use organic, completely safe Bti larvicides to prevent these breeding grounds from adding to the problem.
Whilst many people associate bats with unpleasant diseases, the truth is that there are only three species which feed on blood – and those are native to Central and South America.
Fully 70% of bats are insectivores, and some are said to be able to eat up to 600 mosquitoes in an hour, That’s why constructing a bat house in your own garden or as a community project with near neighbors makes perfect somewhat sense.
The efficacy of this natural, non-toxic mosquito control method is highly debated. Some folks claim, “encourage these friendly creatures and within a year you’ll feel the difference”. A year is the time required for a bat colony to settle.
Others state that bats aren’t effective as they mainly eat moths, beetles, and wasps. While the jury isn’t out, a bat colony may be a useful addition to an integral mosquito control approach.
3. Place plants strategically in window sills and on balconies
The citronella and pyrethrum used in many commercial insect repellents are naturally available in the citronella plant and in marigolds.
Cultivating these mosquito-repelling plants, and others such as catnip, lavender, lemon balm and basil, in garden beds and window pots has been shown to ward off mosquitoes effectively. The plants and especially the natural scent they emit, forms a barrier between the outside and the home which mosquitoes prefer not to cross.
Catnip for example was revealed in a 2010 study to be 10 times more effective than diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), the ingredient commonly found in bug repellents.
Geraniums, rosemary, penny royal and basil also work well, and a few stalks of rosemary on the hot coals when you barbecue will keep mosquitoes at bay.
4. Install screens on windows and doors
Even with the first three steps firmly in place, your home will not be a mosquito-free sanctuary unless you install good quality screens on all your exterior windows and doors – and then check regularly and scrupulously for holes and tears.
Think about enclosing your porch or veranda too. Provided it has an overhead frame, any outside living area can be protected from insect pests.
Mosquito net curtains are a romantic and cost effective alternative to screening but be sure to provide extra volume and length to create “billowiness” and fill gaps.
5. Use an electric fan
When it comes to in-home solutions, scientific evidence indicates that the humble electric fan is superior to any other mosquito deterrent in terms of its effectiveness. There are two reasons for this.
Firstly mosquitoes are not good flyers. Moving at an average speed of 1 to 1.5 miles per hour, they are easily swept off course by the breeze from a strategically placed fan.
Secondly, the breeze from a fan disperses the exhalations which make humans a target for female mosquitoes, namely carbon dioxide, body heat and odors.
These are the substances which indicate our warm-bloodedness and thus our usefulness as suppliers of the blood required to develop fertile eggs.
Still or oscillating, in the house or out of doors, an electric fan should be part of your armory.
6. Experiment with camphor
There is a huge range of mosquito repellent devices available for use inside the home. Camphor, a waxy substance extracted from the wood of the Camphor laurel tree, is a valid alternative to many of these devices.
In fact, camphor is a class-A mosquito repellent. According to many users it’s the best remedy the know.
As well as having many medicinal uses, camphor acts to improve the quality of the air. And like eucalyptus, citronella and similar plants, camphor is a natural mosquito repellent. It simply has an odour which drives mosquitoes away.
Burning pieces of camphor in a closed room creates an acrid smoke which is a potent deterrent. Unfortunately it also deters humans.
You can achieve similar results by placing camphor tablets in the corners of a room. Left there, they will evaporate within a day, keeping the air purer and mosquito free.
A more practical approach is to set up wide mouthed glass bowls or saucers in unventilated corners, fill them with water, and leave a lightly crushed camphor tablet in each. The camphor soon dissolves so you need to renew the tablet every few days. Don’t throw away the old water. Use it when you wash floors or wipe surfaces.
7. Rethink and hack commercial scent-based plug-ins
Commercially available mosquito coils and plug in devices are potentially toxic. They are also expensive and may cause allergies. In tablet form, camphor is ideally suited for insertion into any kind of plug-in repellent device which usually uses mats.
You won’t need to buy chemical refills again. With the camphor in place, plug in twice a day for an hour at a time. Camphor evaporates when combined with warmth, and then acts quickly with the air to drive away mosquitoes.
Another, all-natural, DIY refill is orange or citrus peel with cloves.
8. Use an aromatherapy burner
Warming essential oils over a tea candle is an established practice in aromatherapy. It is also effective as an insect repellent in the home.
As an essential oil for use in an aromatherapy burner, eucalyptus is an excellent substitute for the powerful but pungent citronella.
Eucalyptus has medicinal and antiseptic qualities of its own, and was recognized as an insecticide and miticide* in the US where it was registered in 1948. ( * also called Acaricide, a chemical substance used to control ticks or mites)
9. Burn citronella candles
Citronella oil is extracted from Cympbogon (lemon grass) and its mosquito repellent qualities have been verified by research.
While it is widely used in soaps, repellent sticks, and other personal products, its strong smell makes it something most people do not want on their skin.
For summer evening festivities in the garden or on the patio, citronella candles are somewhat effective. Make your own, light them at dusk and leave them to flicker all night.
These candles and coils do emit large particles (aerosols) which may be detrimental to your health. They also work only within a range of 2 meters, provided that there’s no breeze.
10. Discover neem oil
With your physical environment under control, there are some steps you can take to limit your personal vulnerability to mosquitoes. For mosquito repellents applied directly to the body, select products containing neem.
The antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties of neem oil have been recognized for centuries. The product is extracted from the seeds and leaves of an evergreen tree which grows in India.
According to cited research at the Malaria Institute in India, the addition of neem to kerosene lamps in a 1 % concentration resulted in a significant drop in the number of mosquitoes as well as in the number of malaria cases.
Mixed with coconut oil and applied to the skin, neem offered 96-100% protection against anopheles mosquitoes. Neem is incorporated into agricultural pesticides, repellent sprays and a multitude of natural medicines.
11. Perfume your home with natural oils
Human fragrances are known to attract mosquitoes. Every time you exhale, you release chemicals which combine with CO2 to form your unique level of attractiveness.
Whilst you can counteract this to a limited extent with frequent washing to minimize odors, you can also mask their effect by using perfume extracts from the plants already mentioned.
If you find citronella unbearable, choose lavender or penny royal. Keep a pot of lemon balm at your front door. Rubbing crushed lemon balm leaves across exposed skin before you leave the house will also discourage mosquito landings.
12. Consume garlic
This one is highly disputed. A myth according to some. A truly potent personal mosquito repellent to others.
There is no clearly understood reason for the effectiveness of garlic against mosquitoes. Garlic releases powerful compounds such as allicin and this might be repellent to the insects.
It could also be that the strong smell of garlic overwhelms the mosquito sense of smell, masking other human odors which would otherwise attract them.
Perhaps the garlic your skin exudes simply creates a natural barrier cream which mosquitoes can’t penetrate.
Whilst the precise mechanism is unknown, it is generally accepted that eating garlic or applying garlic based jellies to the body can keep mosquitoes away, minimize bites and offer mosquito bite relief.
Sadly this remedy doesn’t work for me. I freakin love to eat garlic, I reek like a hippie but those darn skeeters always know to find me.
Whilst there is no scientific evidence to support the efficacy of clove studded limes to ward off mosquitoes, many people claim to have experienced success with this recipe.
If you’re in the kitchen and don’t want too many strong smelling odors about you, there can certainly be no harm in rubbing a lime wedge over your hands, arms and face in an attempt to stay bite free. The smell at least is fresh and pleasant.
14. Eat whole grain foods
Laboratory tests have not conclusively proved the suspected link between vitamin B1 and resistance to mosquitoes. The theory is that an excess of water soluble vitamin B1, also called thiamine, is excreted in urine and through the skin via perspiration.
The fact that it finds its way onto the skin gives B1 the potential to deter mosquitoes. There’s only very limited indications this remedy works whereas this study found no effect of vitamin B1 supplementation on mosquito repellency.
Although more research is needed to validate the connection, given that thiamine is not toxic, there can be no harm in consuming extra quantities. Whole grain foods are an excellent source, as are peas, nuts and potatoes.
15. Keep covered
Wearing tight or skimpy clothing increases the chances of a female mosquito finding exposed or penetrable areas of skin to feast on. Keep your clothing loose and voluminous and be sure to cover ankles, wrists, collar bones and other “thin skin” areas.
Received wisdom also says that those long sleeved shirts and trousers should be lightly coloured. Apparently, dark or brightly-colored clothing makes you more visible to mosquitoes.
16. Sleep under a net
A well secured mosquito net which completely covers your entire bed and overflows onto the floor around it is your guarantee of safe and uninterrupted slumber. As with screens and net curtains, check often for holes and tears.
17. Get a bug zapper
Bug zappers have been under scrutiny various sources claiming these devices do not help control your local mosquito population. If you have friends or relatives who own one you will know the pop, crackle, snap, sizzle sounds.
Even though these zappers work indiscriminately – killing all kinds of bugs – after an evening of zapping, you can find heaps of dead mosquitoes in the tray. Sometimes harsh measures are required. Get a good bug zapper if the bloodsuckers are vexing your summer delight.
18. Regularly review your progress
Keeping your home mosquito free is a conscious and ongoing process. But it’s a process worth embarking on for the rewards it will bring you (who isn’t familiar with the hairpulling tendencies after the next buzzing foe terrorizing you in your sleep).
Final note on the best ways to keep mosquitoes out of your home
With mosquito repellents it’s almost like with medicine. What works wonders for some may not work at all for others.
It, for instance, is commonly agreed upon that fans work but still, in some situations the bloodsucking enemy seems to defy the steady flow of wind and still bite people.
Such inexplicable events may be attributed to the fact that so many factors are in play. The type of mosquito, the weather, the scents emitted by nearby plants and flowers, other fauna, factors that determine how mosquitoes find us and more.
Researchers are only beginning to understand how we can better protect ourselves against the deadliest animal on our planet. Until that time we hope you can benefit from these tips.
This list is not exhaustive and you may well be able to add to it as time goes by. If something else works for you, let us know!
It’s the first nice day of the season. You’re sitting down for a meal outside with the family.
Suddenly that annoying buzzing around your ears. Then, a pin prick. Your hand swats wildly *SMACK*, but nope. The skeeter beat you. You look down and there it is: a giant, red, itchy welt.
The fresh joy of being outside basking in the Spring sun just became tainted. It’s mosquito season.
There´s something else this incident informs you about.
Founding Father Benjamin Franklin already said it, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Which certainly goes for those vicious bloodsucking gits.
You have heard about Mosquito Bits and Dunks before. While scratching your welt you wonder,
Do they work?
This is a legit question. If you have a really large yard you will be spending about 30 bucks a month so it better be worth it and work. Of course, for medium or small sized yards costs are much lower.
Does this larvicide really have to ability to kill mosquito larvae?
To keep it plain and simple, yes, Bits and Dunks really work.
EPA has this to say:
“Killing mosquito larvae with microbial larvicides before they emerge as adults can reduce or eliminate the need for ground or aerial application of pesticides to kill adult mosquitoes.
It should be noted that how long and well they work depends mainly on “the mosquito species, the environmental conditions, the formulation of the product, and water quality”.
What exactly are mosquito dunks and bits?
Mosquito Dunks and Mosquito Bits are made from naturally occurring soil bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis strain israelensis (for the rest of us: Bti).
They are one of the most effective products on the market today.
You may be familiar with Bt products as a common form of pest control originating in the early 1900s. Bt biocontrol products are often used on agricultural and garden pests, such as
Btk on caterpillars and
Btt on beetles.
Bti is simply a different strain of Bt that only affects mosquitoes and black flies. (it’s very specific in its larvicidal activity)
Since Bti occurs naturally in the environment, it is considered an all-natural biological control product. Dunks and bits are produced by harvesting Bti from soil, then inactivating the bacteria with enzymes.
The inactivated bacteria is added to fillers and packed neatly into dry briquettes or pellets. By the time it is sold to the consumer, it is no longer a living bacteria, however it is still just as effective in killing mosquito larvae.
How do they work?
When eaten by a mosquito larvae, “toxic crystals” form which travel to the stomach and enter the stomach cells. The crystals cause the stomach cells to explode, forcing the mosquito larva to stop feeding until it starves to death.
It can take several days for all of the mosquito larvae to die, so if you see no immediate results, don’t be alarmed.
Don’t fret if there still appear mosquitoes upon treatment
Older mosquito larvae tend to stop eating as they approach the next life stage, therefore Bti may not be as effective on older larvae and some adult mosquitoes may emerge after the initial Bti treatment.
Bti vs Bs – Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis vs Bacillus sphaericus
A similar product to Bti is Bacillus sphaericus (Bs) which is another bacterial biological control product.
The difference between Bti and Bs is that Bti products contain dead bacteria, whereas Bs products contain live bacteria.
Bs downsides:
Bs may not be as effective on certain species of mosquitoes.
Another disadvantage, there has been some recent concern about Bs insecticide resistance in populations of disease-carrying mosquitoes.
Studies indicate it appears to be less effective in killing the Aedes species
Most mosquito control products purchased by homeowners contain Bti, however Bs is an additional mosquito control option.
Dunks vs. Bits, when to use which?
Bti products come in several formulations, including donuts and briquettes (collectively known as dunks), and granules or pellets (bits).
Main difference:
Dunks last longer. They dissolve slowly and have a time-release feature.
Bits work more work quickly. Need to be applied more often but offer quick results.
Mosquito Dunks
Dunks contain slow-release formulas, meaning they will last approximately 30 days in the water.
Dunks float on top of the water, and as the mosquito larvae naturally feed, the Bti is consumed.
These are useful in open bodies of water such as vacant pools, and can be broken up to treat smaller surface areas.
Mosquito Bits
Bits are, in Bti coated, corn cob granules. Bits are a quick-release formula, and therefore only last approximately 7-14 days based on the formulation.
Unlike dunks, bits will sink to the bottom of the water once waterlogged.
Bit formulations are more useful for smaller, hard to reach locations such as tree holes, or large bodies of standing water, such as flooded crop fields and marshes.
In areas with aquatic vegetation, such as water gardens, marshes, or flooded orchards, the bit formulation may be more useful since their smaller size can penetrate in between and underneath vegetation.
In addition, they can be dispersed more evenly in water with little movement. They can also be added to dry ground if large amounts of rain are expected and the area doesn’t drain well.
However UV sunlight will degrade Bti quickly, so leaving them exposed to sunlight for periods of time will decrease their effectiveness.
When using bits in ponds, it is important to remember that fish and turtles love to consume anything pellet-like, including your mosquito bits.
While bits are completely safe for wildlife, eaten bits mean less Bti for the mosquitoes to consume. There is another product called mosquito plunks which are simply bits packed into a water soluble bag.
Update: “The Mosquito Beater WSP (formerly Plunks) is a water soluble packet containing BTI granules, essentially identical to Mosquito Bits”.
The bag prevents munching from pond inhabitants, but should be tied down as bags tend to float around, sometimes causing uneven dispersal of the Bti. Alternately, you can make your own Plunks/ Mosquito Beaters by adding Bits to a stocking.
Are Mosquito Bits & Dunks Safe?
The best part about Bti products (aside from no mosquitoes, of course) is their environmental safety. They are deemed organic by the USEPA.
The Bti bacteria affect mosquitoes and black flies only, both of which are vicious biters.
When used properly, these products are safe to use around homes with children, pets, and wildlife. They can safely be used in fish ponds and horse troughs. They are even safe for other beneficial critters such as honey bees, dragonflies, and tadpoles.
We get it, you can’t be careful enough. Therefore we have consulted experts for their opinion on specific safety issues. Here are the most common FAQ;
Q: Do mosquito bits / dunks kill tadpoles?
A: No they will not hurt tadpoles. The Bt in mosquito dunks and bits kills mosquitoes and a few related insects only.
Q: Do mosquito bits / dunks kill fungus gnats?
A: Recent government requirements for reporting info on insecticides by manufacturers conclude that BTi affects mosquito larva, fungus gnat larva and blackfly larva. It may have an effect on daphne but numbers are too low to be included in the data.
Q: Do mosquito bits / dunks kill dragonflies?
A: There are no indications dragonfly larvae are affected.
Q: Do mosquito bits / dunks harm bees?
A: Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies Israelensis strain EG2215 does not harm bees. It is designed to kill mosquitoes and a limited amount of related, aquatic insects only. These include fly larvae and midges.
What if my cat or dog eats from the Bits or Dunks? Does that harm them?
No, according to the manufacturers they are completely harmless, “If an animal eats a Mosquito Dunk or drinks water treated with a Mosquito Dunk, it essentially gets a large dose of protein and calcium.”
Keep an eye out though because your dog may like to eat them, rendering your pest-control efforts fruitless. Crumble the Bti product well or place it out of reach of pets, squirrels and raccoons.
Concluding: The only ones who aren’t safe are the mosquito larvae and you if you don’t take action and use Bti to control the pest around your living area.
Note: Although the israelensis strain anti pest activity is very limited, certain types of non-biting midges, which serve as food for fish and wildlife, may be affected.
How long do they work?
Many Bti products last up to 30 days in the water, but always read the label to determine when to re-treat.
As mentioned previously, fish and turtles love to eat anything shaped like a pellet, so if using bits in ponds, be sure to secure the bits in a water-permeable stocking or purchase mosquito plunks.
Mosquito Bits and Dunks Reviews
“We live among muddy and constantly swampy areas and Mosquito Bits worked like a charm. We broadcasted the product in still water and over the mud (we found the dunks too compacted to work). Because it’s easier to cover large areas, Bits turned out far less expensive to use.”
“Dunks are a lifesaver, we have almost no mosquitoes and it’s completely safe for our lily and fish pond. Our fish, butterflies, dragonflies, turtles, and frogs flourish and we can enjoy them without the flying pests”
“Tossed it in and the day after I could skim off all the dead larvae.”
How to use Mosquito Bits and Dunks
In order to optimize mosquito prevention, we must first understand the mosquito life cycle.
Mosquitoes start their life in water, which begins when a female lays her eggs on the water. The eggs hatch into mosquito larvae, which feed and grow for several days.
At the end of the larval stage, mosquitoes pupate (much like a butterfly) before they hatch and fly away as the annoying needles with wings.
Different types of mosquitoes prefer different water conditions, but those that live and bite around homes usually prefer small amounts of stinky, stagnant water.
Some of the most common skeeter breeding habitats are unfiltered bird baths, clogged gutters, flower pot saucers, French drains, wheelbarrows, etc.
Most breeding spots can be remedied by simply dumping out water once a week, however sometimes conditions ask for more thorough measures in the form of “biological control”.
If it holds water, it will breed mosquitoes.
Where to use Bits and Dunks
Certain spots such as bird baths or the rain barrel are obvious. Pay special attention to the following areas:
Muddy areas after rain. Anywhere that gets mushy or swampy. In deeper garden beds, in some areas of soil that don’t drain as quickly in the yard/garden.
Water gardens, flower pots, old automobile tires, rain gutters, decorative ponds, ditches, roof gutters, drainage gulley, Koi ponds, hydroponic systems, animal water troughs, livestock water, rain barrels.
Under hostas, earth boxes, in tree holes, evergreens, in ivy, pachysandra, in the patio drain, by the fence line.
Generally, mosquitoes tend to breed under wet, shady tree and foliage areas. They may even be located near mosquito repelling plants.
Shady areas, depressions in the grass, tree stumps and tree crotches, grass, mulch, planters or garden tools and wherever else water accumulates.
Make sure to use them indoors as well (if necessary). Treat flower vases, flooded basements, building foundations, indoor fountains and other areas as well. Mosquitoes will breed there just as happily.
Tip: If you use Bits, using a canister with a shake top lets you walk around the premises while the canister bangs against your leg spreading the stuff effortlessly.
“Our neighbors moved out but didn’t empty their pool. Mosquito mayhem in the backyard was the result the following weeks. We threw a few dunks over the fence into the pool. This helped diminish the skeeter plague within a few weeks.”
Quick and dirty tips for successful use
The war on the flying bugs requires the scorched earth strategy. Or the mosquito version actually. Leave no area untreated, give them no chance to breed nor hatch.
1. Start treating in time. Larvae start growing early so depending on where you live, start using the dunks in April, early March or even February
If you know rain is expected, or you know of areas that consistently hold water, apply Bti before mosquitoes become a problem.
No mosquito larvae = no mosquito bites (or at least much less). Treatment before or just after eggs are laid will yield the most success.
2. Reapply as needed. Dunks last approximately 30 days, but bits only last 7-14 days. Reapplying at correct intervals will ensure no mosquitoes develop in between applications.
3. Apply according to label instructions. One dunk will treat approximately 3 square meters of surface area (about the size of a hot tub), but bits will be applied differently depending on the environment. It is important to treat enough so that mosquitoes don’t develop, but over-treating can be a waste of resources and money.
4. Think outside the box. Birdbaths, vacant pools, and gutters are all obvious mosquito breeding habitats. However, there may be a frisbee hidden under a bush, a broken sprinkler head hidden in the garden, or a low lying area underneath your flower beds. Make sure to examine your environment with a fine tooth comb and treat every possible breeding location. Mosquitoes will lay eggs in as little as 1 tablespoon of water.
5. Involve your neighbors. Your yard can be as dry as the desert, but if your neighbor is breeding mosquitoes, you are still on the dinner menu. Share your new found mosquito knowledge with your neighbors, or group together and purchase in bulk so everyone can treat. (you could buy some extra and give it to you direct neigbors, they may or may not use it and even reimburse you but chances are you will enhance mosquito control in near your home).
“Doesn’t kill flying mosquitoes. Adults still come flying in (although less). Would be great if the whole neighborhood used this.”
Treating with dunks and bits is only one step in personal mosquito protection. For the best results, follow the 4D’s of mosquito prevention:
Drain standing water,
Dress in long sleeves and pants to prevent skin exposure, and
Defend yourself with an EPA-approved mosquito repellent.
Destroy the pesky bugs, their larvae, and their breeding grounds
Typical measures to protect against mosquitoes include nets, traps, personal repellents, fogging, and so fort. Especially since Bits and Dunks do not kill adult skeeters.
Mosquito dunks and bits, however, are an integral part of such a multi-modal approach.
How much Bits, Dunks, or Plunks do I need?
Plunks
Just like Dunks, Plunks need to be replaced every 2 weeks. Add one Plunk per 50 square feet of water surface.
Dunks
You will need about 1 Dunk for every 100 square feet. To spread them evenly and thus maximize their effect, throw Dunks 10 feet from each other.
Break Dunks up for smaller areas. The manufacturer recommends:
1/4 Dunk – up to 5 square feet of water
1/2 Dunk – 5 to 25 square feet
1 Dunk – 25 to 100 square feet
Tip: Buy in bulk. Twenty packs are much cheaper per unit than two-packs. They stay effective for at least 8 years to come so the next few mosquito seasons you are well-prepared.
Bits
One teaspoon of Bits is recommended for every 25 square feet.
Or use one tablespoon for every 75 square feet.
Use a half cup for every 600 square feet.
Bits are available in 8 ounce and 30 ounce packages.
The 8-ounce container is good for roughly 2,178 square feet (contains about 87 teaspoons or 29 tablespoons).
The 30-ounce container has enough bits for over 8000 square feet (contains over 300 teaspoons or 100 tablespoons).
The same principle goes here, larger packages are much cheaper. The 30 ounce package will save you about half the costs.
Which brand to choose?
Several brands exist, however a couple of the most popular brands are Mosquito Dunks® and Mosquito Bits® by Summit Chemical.
Other brands are Plunks, Gnatrol, Vactimos, Bonide’s Mosquito Beater WSP (Water Soluble Pouch).
Some liquid ready-to-use formulations are now also on the market, such as:
Liquid BMC. Vectobac is a liquid formulation commonly used in commercial mosquito control operations.
Microbe-Lift BMC (Biological Mosquito Control) is another liquid formula.
Liquid products may require dilution and a sprayer, which makes them not generally recommended for homeowner use.
Microbe Lift BMC is an exception though. This product is very easily applicable.
“I swear by Microbe Lift BMC. I use the measuring cup for large bodies of water and an eyedropper for the birdbath, the dog’s wading pool and so on. “
“Liquid Bti is discrete since it doesn’t show. Dunks and Bits ruin my view, floating in the pool and ornamental water garden. Great for puddles and ditches but when esthetics are important, I use Lift BMC”
No matter what formulation you choose, it is important to remember that all treatment options should be registered and approved by the EPA. Using a non-EPA approved product carries the risk of hurting the environment and the user.
Labels will always tell you what your active ingredient is (look for Bti), how much to use, how to properly apply, and when to re-treat the area.
Plunks reviews
“Basically Dunks in a pouch. Work quickly in killing larvae but don’t last as long as Dunks. Plunks are pre-measured in a dissolvable pouch you just throw in the middle of the pond”
“Great stuff, highly recommended. There’s no annoying scent, no nasty fog, no buzzing UV light traps with heaps of dead insects, just toss them in the water and you’re set for two weeks.”
Where to buy?
Now you may be thinking, “These sound great, but where do I buy some?” You are right, they are effective means to control a mosquito problem and you should get some.
Bti products are available at most big box stores and online.
You can buy dunks in small 2-packs, or purchase them wholesale with up to 20 dunks per pack. Or order them online. Get a Summit 20 pack Mosquito Dunks to cover 2000 square feet.
By using these mosquito control products as instructed and regularly you will be able to reduce the nuisance and protect your health.
You may still have to use DEET or a bug zapper for complete safety but Bits, Dunks, Plunks and Microbe Lift BMC go a long way in taking back your yard.
First reports of the West Nile virus rearing its ugly head in the U.S. were in 1999. In New York 62 contaminations and 7 deaths were confirmed.
Since then the virus has caused hundreds of deaths. The CDC not only reports thousands of cases of West Nile virus throughout the US but also Dengue Fever is taking its toll. Malaria outbreaks are still scarce in the US but the mosquito is wreaking havoc as it is.
In 2008 alone, the CDC reported 1,356 cases of West Nile throughout the U.S. and 44 deaths. In 2009 and 2010, outbreaks of dengue fever were reported in the U.S.
What exactly is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus is caused in humans by being bitten by an infected mosquito and symptoms can range from being completely non-existent, to cold and flu like, to brain inflammation and death.
It’s been seen in Europe, Africa, Australia and West Asia and made its first appearance in the US in 1999 and infection rates are steadily spreading.
It affects animals as well as humans, and so farmers need to take preventative steps for not only themselves and their family, but their livestock too.
It’s important to be armed with the knowledge of what West Nile Virus is, the symptoms, how to treat it and how to prevent it.
West Nile Virus in the US
The CDC estimates that over 3 million people in the US have been infected by the West Nile Virus, although most of them wouldn’t have even known, as the majority of cases don’t exhibit any symptoms.
The virus was first discovered in the West Nile region of Uganda in 1937 made its first appearance in the US when it appeared in the state of New York in 1999, likely carried by an infected mosquito that found its way onto a plane or cargo ship.
In 2014 over two thousand cases of West Nile virus were reported to the CDC, with human infections being reported in forty seven states, with eighty four fatalities.
While this is not as serious as infection rates in some previous years, with over nine thousand cases being reported in 2003 and a huge two hundred and sixty four fatalities, the virus is still highly infectious and prevention and understanding of the West Nile Virus are crucial.
click the image for an interactive map (credit USGS)
How weather and climate increase your risks
While the CDC is not necessarily noticing an increase in cases over the last few years, outbreaks of West Nile Virus in the US are heavily dependent on the weather and climate each year.
A milder winter will often mean a more severe outbreak in the summer. Regions with weather conditions that a little kinder to mosquitoes tend to have more severe outbreaks, with Dallas being the city that has historically been hit the hardest by West Nile Virus.
Transmission: how do you get infected?
So far, the only known way to contract West Nile Virus for both humans and livestock is to be bitten by an infected mosquito.
No human-to-human, livestock-to-human, or human-to-livestock transmissions have been reported to date.
West Nile Virus Symptoms
Most people who become infected with West Nile Virus, an estimated 70-80% won’t even know that they have it, and experience no symptoms at all.
Around 20% of infected people may be experience ‘West Nile Fever’ which is characterized by cold and flu like symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash.
While most people with West Nile Fever will recover in a week or so they may remain fatigued and weakened for as long as several months.
Less than 1% of people will experience severe neurological symptoms, known as West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease. 20% of these severe cases result in death.
Symptoms of West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease include:
Encephalitis(a rare and acute brain infection) is the most common symptom of West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease and is characterized by fever, headaches, altered mental status, paralysis and muscle weakness
Meningitis ( inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain ) which is normally diagnosed when the patient is experiencing a fever, headache and stiff neck and is characterized by the swelling of membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Poliomyelitis, (polio-like syndrome) characterized by sudden asymmetrical paralysis, weakness or loss of sensation.
Severe non-neurological symptoms of West Nile Virus which are again, present in less than 1% of cases, can include kidney disease, hepatitis, cardiac dysrhythmia, pancreatitis and myocarditis.
While it’s important not to panic and remember that most cases of West Nile Virus go completely unnoticed with no symptoms at that the mortality rate for West Nile Virus is far less than 1%, if you or anyone in your household is experiencing severe symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help.
Treatment
In most cases where West Nile Virus is exhibiting minor symptoms (rash, headaches, etc) in an infected person, over-the-counter painkillers and bed rest are sufficient treatments.
In severe cases, patients may need to be hospitalized in order to receive some treatments and so that their condition can continue to be monitored.
How to prevent getting infected
No vaccine or specific anti-viral treatments exist for humans at this stage, although several have been developed for horses. It’s unlikely that a vaccine will be developed in the near future, as outbreaks are hard to predict and testing the vaccine would be difficult and definitely not cost-effective.
If a person has been infected once, even unknowingly, it’s believed that they’ll be immune from later infection.
While there is a test to see if you are immune to West Nile Virus, it’s very unreliable, so unless you are positive you’ve had West Nile Virus before, it’s best to assume you’re not protected and to take preventative measures.
These include:
Apply insect repellent and if wearing sunscreen as well, be sure to apply the repellent after the sunscreen.
To protect infants, use a carrier draped with mosquito netting
Wear long sleeves and pants when possible and spray insect repellent over the top of clothes.
Use insecticides around and inside your property when possible. If it’s not possible to keep mosquitos out of your home, drape mosquito netting over your bed at night. Despite abundant reviews praising natural repellents, DEET is still the most efficient, and thus your safest option. Picaridin is a good second repellent. Be cautious with ‘DEET-free’ products.
Mosquitoes are a dreadful nuisance to mankind. Not only do they bite people, they are vectors for some terrible diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever.
As such, mosquito control has become an important aspect of disease prevention; especially where mosquito-borne illnesses are endemic.
Mosquitoes are not without natural controls, which sometimes can be exploited by man to help reduce mosquito populations. Some of the natural enemies of mosquitoes are discussed below.
Western Mosquitofish
The western mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis, is a small fish whose native range mostly exists in the south-central United States.
The eastern extent of its natural range is the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River system of the states of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, with the western extent being the Rio Grande River all the way into New Mexico.
All of the major rivers which are tributaries of the Mississippi River are in within this fish’s natural range.
Western mosquitofish feed primarily on zooplankton and invertebrate prey (including mosquito larvae) at the top of the water column. The fish is well known for its high feeding capacity, which can reach 42–167% of its body weight per day.
Because of their reputation as mosquito-control agents, western mosquitofish have been introduced in temperate and tropical areas throughout around the world. In the U.S. during the early 1900s, mosquitofish were introduced to Hawaii from Texas to test their effectiveness in preying on mosquito larvae and their ability to function as an effective mosquito predator.
In the following decades, mosquitofish were widely introduced by public health such organizations, largely because they were thought to be an effective and inexpensive means of combating malaria.
In more recent years, many state and local health departments apparently view the use of mosquitofish to control mosquito larvae as a more attractive alternative to using pesticides.
Although widely introduced as mosquito control agents, more recent scientific reviews have not supported views that mosquitofish are effective in reducing mosquito populations or mosquito-borne diseases.
In some habitats, introduced mosquitofish reportedly displaced native fish species regarded as better or more efficient at controlling mosquitos. They also were destructive to predatory invertebrate populations that fed upon mosquito larvae.
Introduced mosquitofish have been particularly destructive in the American West where they have contributed to the elimination or decline of populations of federally endangered and threatened species.
For instance, mosquitofish have preyed on populations of tadpoles of certain frogs and newts, thus reducing the adult populations of these species.
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring bacterium common in soils throughout the world. Several strains of this microbe can infect and kill insects.
Because of this property, Bt has been developed for insect control, and is the only “microbial insecticide” in widespread use today. The insecticidal activity of Bt was first discovered in 1911, and by the 1950s it was commercially available for use in pest-control.
Bt acts by producing proteins (delta-endotoxins) that react with the cells of the gut lining of susceptible insects. The proteins paralyze the digestive system, and the infected insect stops feeding—eventually dying of starvation. Even dead bacteria containing the proteins are effective insecticides.
The israelensis strain of the Bt microbe is used to control certain types of fly larvae, to include mosquitoes, black flies, and fungus gnats. To control mosquito larvae, formulations containing the israelensis strain are placed into the standing water where mosquitos breed.
For these applications, Bt usually is applied in granules or solid, slow-release rings or briquettes to increase persistence. Rates of application are determined by the size of the water body.
One of the advantages of BT is that it does not have a broad spectrum of activity, so the microbes do not kill beneficial insects, such as insect predators or pollinators.
Corethrella appendiculata is a small biting midge that targets frogs as an adult. The larval stage is an aquatic form that is predatory and which targets mosquito larvae for food.
The midge larvae can be found in standing water in containers, tree holes; i.e., the same habitats where mosquito larvae can be found. The midge larvae are small, but they are voracious feeders.
Interest in C. appendiculata has grown in recent years due to the expanding invasion of the Asian tiger mosquito in the U.S. This invader is native to Southeast Asia and reached U.S. shores in the mid-1980s via a Texas port.
The Asian tiger mosquito is an epidemiologically important vector for the transmission of many pathogens, including the viruses that cause yellow fever, dengue fever, and Chikungunya fever. It also is a vector for several filarial nematode parasites.
Researchers have found that C. appendiculata larvae will choose to attack and eat tiger mosquito larvae over native mosquito larvae.
Size differences between the larvae of the mosquito species are a factor, with the tiger mosquito larvae being smaller than other mosquito larvae, and therefore easier to attack.
The native mosquito larvae also adopt less risky behaviors than the invasive mosquito larvae, making them less susceptible to being eaten.
dragonflies prey on both mosquitoes and their larvae
Dragonflies are fierce hunters of insects, and mosquitoes are definitely on the menu. Dragonflies spend most of their lives living under water as larvae (nymphs)—Up to five years.
They usually live just a few months as adult flies. As nymphs they hunt small aquatic insects and larvae, especially mosquito larvae. Some dragonfly nymphs will even eat tadpoles and guppies.
The nymphs snag their prey with powerful jaws using the same tenacity and determination that adult flies use.
Adult dragonflies are also voracious eaters. They eat other flying insects, in particular smaller flies and mosquitoes. One Harvard study observed a dragonfly that ate 30 house flies in rapid succession, and would have continued eating if more prey was available.
The compound eyes of the dragonfly are even more developed than the compound eyes of the house fly, and are put to good use during hunts for prey. The dragonfly does not chase its prey through the air.
Rather, it sees them with its tremendous visual acuity and then calculates an intercept path in order to meet them at a specific point. Once they intercept their prey, they grab the prey with their front legs, which curve around the prey like a cage, preventing escape. They then use powerful jaws to crush their prey.
The four wings of the dragonfly operate independently, which allows it to hover and fly with great maneuverability. The intricate compound eyes and great flying ability help make the dragonfly a fearsome insect predator. Dragonflies are beneficial insects that man should respect.
As much as mosquitoes bite, they are also a part of the natural food chain. They are eaten by many other organisms, to include other insects, birds, reptiles, fish, and bats.
Bats are sometimes named as effective measures to get rid of mosquitoes in yards but this is a myth. Bats eat mostly larger insects and mosquitoes are only a few percent of their diet as research has shown.
The same goes for birds. Certain birds such as Purple Martins are claimed to feed on mosquitoes thus helping reduce their amount. Yet these birds eat only very few mosquitoes so their presence does not make much of a difference. What’s more is that Purple Martins also feed on the natural enemy of skeeters, dragonflies.
The toads and lizards living in your garden, the frogs in nearby ponds, and the birds inhabiting your neighborhood include mosquitoes in their diets, which helps to keep the mosquito population lower than it would be otherwise. Even if their contribution is small, they are part of the ecosystem.
*Nico, L., Fuller, P., Jacobs, G., Cannister, M., Larson, J,. Fusaro, A…Neilson, M. (2013, August 2). Gambusia affinis (Baird and Girard, 1853). Retrieved from UCGS.
Science Daily. (2009, June 8). Midge Keeps Invasive Mosquito In Check, Aiding Native Mosquitoes. Retrieved from ScienceDaily.
Mosquitoes can really take the fun out of spending time in the yard. Not only do they ruin summer days and evenings leaving everyone annoyed and itchy, in recent years they have become a real cause for health concerns due to mosquito-borne illness.
Depending on your situation you may not be able to get rid of the flying bugs completely but there’s a lot you can do to minimize the influx.
Here’s an overview of how to control mosquitoes in your home’s outdoor area. We have separated old wives tales from science-backed remedies, fiction from fact. The result, 16 tips that actually work. Based on research, pest experts, and user experiences.
Corrective Actions
Make your yard less attractive to the buzzing bugs with these measures. Basically what you do is employ the proven effective scorched earth policy. Take away everything that mosquitoes attracts and facilitates their survival.
Get rid of (potential) water containers
standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes
In the war against the bugs standing water is the battlefront. Tackle the problem at the source. Prevent larvae from growing into adult skeeters. This is one of the most effective ways to minimize their presence.
Mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of standing water. Inspect your yard for standing (rain) water. Even the barest amount (i.e. a quarter of an inch of water) is enough for the pests to spawn.
Empty or remove all the items that can contain water for at least a few days. By eliminating all these water sources you are taking away ideal breeding grounds for the bugs.
Items and spots that contain water include,
bird baths, ornamental fountains, water gardens, rain barrels without screened covers, plant pots, animal drinking containers, the crevices of plastic toys, garbage cans, old tires, buckets, tree stumps, puddles, shallow ponds, clogged gutters, obstructed down spouts, flat roofs, and yard debris.
Remove or turn containers upside down since the airborne pests leave their eggs in currently dry containers. When filled with rain water the eggs will hatch .
Turn water barrels upside down during the winter. During mosquito season (till October) cover the barrel with a lid. Keep lid sealed with connectors. Use a mosquito-proof screen (very fine mesh) to seal and cover the rain barrel.
Ensure cistern screens are intact and covers fit well. Avoid seepage around animal watering troughs, cesspools, cisterns and septic tanks.
Refresh the water in bird baths at least once a week.
Improve swampy soil
Sun Tzu said it already, “the low ground, on the other hand, is often wet and full of mosquitoes”.
Aedes mosquitoes prefer to lay eggs in low lying areas that flood from time to time. Other causes of moist soil can be poor drainage, yard layout and soil composition.
Where possible, drain or fill non/flowing ditches, soil depressions and other soggy parts of the yard. Tree stumps can be filled with sealant or mortar to prevent gathering of water.
The more you get rid of spots that tend to gather water on wet days, the less swarming enemies you will encounter later on.
Ditches containing stagnant water for one week or longer can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to a Mosquito Control or Public Health Office. (American Mosquito Control Association)
Treat water in ponds
Making everything in the yard as dry as possible would be ideal to get rid of the pest but you may want to keep your nice Koi pond.
Since mosquitoes prefer standing, non-flowing water aeration helps prevent egg-laying and hatching. Use an aeration pump, a fountain, water bubbler, or a DIY pond aerator to improve water circulation and keep it moving.
Mosquito larvae have a breathing tube they use like a snorkel with which they breath at the surface of the water. Moving water surfaces prevent breathing, drowning the larvae.
Thin out pond lilies and remove leaves and keep the water level up.
If limiting the amount of water pools is not possible or undesirable you can use a biorational larvicide. These are commonly sold as mosquito pucks or dunks.
The most popular larvicides for home use contain either the active ingredient,
Methoprene that inhibits the development of mosquito larvae into adults.
or
the Bti bacterium (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) that produces a toxin that attacks the digestive tract thus killing the larvae. (it does not affect eggs or pupae)
Both larvicides are harmless to waterfowl, fish, pets, and humans provided they are used according directions on the label.
Commercially available brand names containing methoprene are Altocide and PreStrike. Popular brands containing Bti are Mosquito Bits, Vectobac-G and Mosquito Dunks.
These can be used on all standing water containers including roof gutters, flower pots, old tires, ponds and so on.
The difference between the two forms, granular and solid dunks
Dunks break down slowly when wet releasing the insecticide over an extended period.
Granular products release the Bti toxin more quickly than the dunks and are commonly used to treat smaller containers such as tree holes, flower pots etc.
According to popular belief used coffee grounds are effective at killing mosquito larvae. Coffee grounds are often claimed to force the eggs to the surface, thus depriving them of oxygen with a lethal result.
Research shows that the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Coffee grounds, in some cases show to act as a larvicide while in other cases indirectly provide food for the larvae. Therefore UCG are probably best for small bodies of water.
A study by the University of Hawaii demonstrated that Vectobac-G, Altocid, Mosquito Bits and Mosquito Dunks are effective in killing mosquito larvae in flower vases. A dishwashing liquid was too, but affected leaf and flower quality.
Treat water in ornamental pools
If water movement alone does not suffice you can also stock the Western Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis).
Be cautious becauseMosquitofish, also called top feeding predacious minnows, these fish have shown to kill or injure other small fish and to be a threat to frog populations. Which is why they are generally not recommended for so called ‘green pools’.
Therefore they are probably best for stagnant pools of water and large water containers such as large animal troughs, rain barrels and ornamental pools.
The mosquito larvae eating fish are claimed to be able to eat up to 300 larvae per day.
You can get free mosquito fish at the Mosquito and Vector Control District. Request the fish online at FightTheBite.net.
Another option are guppies which are known to eat mosquito larvae. In Thailand guppies are present on large scale in urban areas where they play an important role in reducing the mosquito populations.
The annual killifish (Nothobranchius guentheri) is another type of fish known to help limit the amount of larvae in ponds and other water bodies. This study reports about the effictiveness of the from Tanzania originating fish.
Once introduced either as embryos or juveniles in ponds, the annual killifish can effectively reduce the larval population because of its aggressive predatory activity.
In certain bodies of water oil can be an effective solution too. Being lighter than water, for instance olive oil, forms a thin film on the water preventing the larvae from breathing suffocating them.
Keep swimming pools clean
Contrary to popular belief, chlorine does not kill mosquito larvae. Even the CDC stresses the importance of keeping swimming pools chlorinated.
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is effective yet highly toxic to the environment thus, in many cases, undesirable.
Run a filter and use a pool cover to minimize the mosquito menace. Mosquitoes do not lay eggs in disinfected and filtered swimming pools.
Treat your yard with a mosquito insecticide
Mosquitoes lay low in dense vegetation such as trees and shrubs but also in weeds. Get rid of of tall weeds and overgrowth to minimize their resting spots during the day.
Spraying foliage such as shrubs, the lower limbs of shade trees, and other plants with an insecticide can also help. Spray both the top and especially the underside of the leaves.
Trimming back low foliage is another common practice that helps make your yard mosquito free.
Make sure to treat all shaded areas such as under decks, along foundations overhangs of the house, the shed and other structures.
If your yard isn’t too big, using a pump sprayer (hose end sprayer) will suffice. For large yards a mist blower will be handy. Make sure to re-apply every month during the mosquito season.
Two popular insecticides for this purpose are Demand Cs and Talstar Pro. These belong to the so called pyrethroid insecticides.
These are synthetic chemical insecticides that act in a similar manner to from chrysanthemum flower derived pyrethrins.
Pyrethroids are toxic to fish but “do not pose unreasonable risks to human life, wildlife or the environment”. Source. EPA.
An alternative are garlic-based liquid sprays such as Mosquito Barrier 2000 liquid spray which is essentially highly concentrated garlic juice derived from extra potent cloves.
Replace outdoor lights with bug lights
Lights attract small bugs which attract bigger bugs looking for a tasty meal. By replacing existing outdoor light for opaqueyellow bug lights you may reduce the influx of the flying pests in your yard.
Because of different light wavelengths, bug lights are less visible to insects thus causing less bugs swarming around.
The, often much ballyhooed, claim is that the yellow opaque coating on bug lights ensures emitting light invisible to insects. If they can’t see a light source, they can’t swarm there.
However, not all insects are the same, different bugs see slightly different wavelengths and light always consists of several wavelengths. Despite these shortcomings bug lights can be useful additions to a multi-modal mosquito management program.
They will not be invisible to all bugs but have proven to drastically reduce swarms of bugs.
Irrigate your lawn carefully
Avoid over-watering lawns and gardens to prevent standing water and other moist conditions on the premises. The less abundant water in puddles and the top soil layers the less chance for mosquitoes on successful breeding.
Traps and insecticide systems
Misting systems
Harsh times ask for harsh measures. Chemical warfare is the way to go if you want that barbecue to be absolutely skeeter-free. Also called ‘bug bombs’,foggers create a cloud of death that kills mosquitoes on contact and lasts for hours.
For this reason misters or foggers are commonly used during pool parties, backyard picnics, and other events.
Misting systems dispense an odorless, ultra-fine insecticide mist lethal to the nefarious insects. Misting is most efficient during peak periods of mosquito flight, often around dusk. Similar to sprinklers they can be set up on a timing system.
We didn’t know what to expect at first but misters really work. We can always tell when the misting tank needs to be refilled because the mosquitoes show up.
Misting systems are generally used with botanical pyrethrum or permethrin which are low risk, low toxicity substances that are safe on animals and humans.
These are the same compounds present in flea and tick products and dog and cat shampoos and drips.
Consumer market insecticides containing permethrin include Ortho Home Defense Max, Ortho Bug B Gon, Raid Yard Guard, and Cutter Bug Free Backyard.
Examples of consumer products containing pyrethrins include: Quik-Kill Home Garden & Pest Spray, Pyrethrum Total Release Fogger and Doktor Doom fogger.
Fogging machines are also used with repellents. More expensive models are able to cover up to 4000 square feet lasting up to 6 hours.
Large, automated misting systems commonly come in a tankless or drum-based variant but have more disadvantages than portable, lightweight foggers such as the popular Burgess 1443 40-Ounce Outdoor Propane Insect Fogger.
Portable mosquito traps
Citronella candles and coils mask the CO2 we breathe out to keep them away. Mosquito traps do the exact opposite, they emit a stream CO2 to lure mosquitoes in.
The Patriot Mosquito Magnet trap for instance converts propane into a CO2 stream, water vapor and heat to attract the little buggers. You can also add an additional attractant (i.e. Octenol3) that mimics the scent of human skin to lure in more mosquitoes.
Once captured in the trapping bag they eventually dry out and die.
These devices can be effective solutions to your skeeter problem but must be placed appropriately (for instance out of windy spots) and require regular propane and attractant refill which may make running them costly.
Repellents
Repelling lanterns
A more affordable weapon in the battle of the bugs is a portable, cordless butane powered lantern. These devices emit repellent into the air thus keeping mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and black flies away.
A butane cartridge heats a metal grill which is attached to the repellent saturated mat. Because of the heat the repellent, in this lantern allethrin, vaporizes into the surrounding air.
This particular lantern uses allethrin which is a synthetic duplicate of a component of pyrethrum (the botanical insecticide primarily produced in the chrysanthemum plant family). Allethrin is not toxic to mammals.
Outdoor fans
Using fans is a proven method to ward off skeeters both indoor as outdoor. The common claim that skeeters dislike a breeze and thus stay away is not entirely true though.
Although they may have a harder time circling around you and landing on you there’s something else what makes fans efficient.
The air circulation disperses and dilutes the carbon dioxide you exhale. Other signals the bugs use to find you are sweat, lactic acid and body heat which a fan helps reduce. Researchers conducting a study on the benefits of fans as mosquito repellents concluded:
“We recommend that fan-generated wind should be pursued as a practical means of protecting humans or pets from mosquitoes in the backyard setting,”
The fan on the photo is an outdoor misting fan. You could use a normal indoor fan too when, for instance, sitting on the porch.
Conceal candles
Everybody knows citronella candles which are repellents (emit a scent the bugs don’t like and want to avoid). Conceal candles work differently, they are inhibitors.
This means that they interfere with the smelling ability of mosquitoes in the proximity. Once they have smelled these candles burning they are disoriented and, supposedly, aren’t able to find you or your family members anymore.
These candles contain a botanical substance called Linalool or ‘Conceal Inhibitor Molecule’.
Controversial systems
Bug zappers
Opinions on effectiveness and environmental influence of these devices differs. The reason for the popularity of these devices may be the satisfying zapping sound they make when bugs hit the electrified grid. This gives users the impression the zapper effectively reduces the local mosquito population.
With their fluorescent lights they are able to attract and kill thousands of insects in relatively short period of time. These devices however are generally not recommended for mosquito reduction.
According to the American Mosquito Control Association, bug zappers, also called black light insect electrocution devices do not reduce the amount of mosquitoes in your yard.
What’s more is that these devices, their use going back to the 1930’s, kill billions of beneficial, non-pest insects yearly in the U.S alone.
Since these insects such as beetles and moths are natural enemies of other insect pests you may be actually increasing problems in your yard by using a zapper. On top of that you are reducing the food supply of many songbirds.
According to one study conducted in residential backyards, of the insects killed by these devices only 0.13% were female mosquitoes.
The only two controlled studies conducted to date by independent investigators at the University of Notre Dame showed that mosquitoes comprised merely 4.1% and 6.4% respectively of the daily catch over an entire season.
Zappers kill thousands of (beneficial) bugs each night and only a handful mosquitoes
However, some people swear by them
Reviewers claim that the Flowtron 80w (and 40w and 15w) kills mosquitoes, even without the use of an attractant. They mention finding hundreds of dead mosquitoes underneath the device and suspect it works well because it attracts and kills mosquitoes.
Users also point out that where you put it is essential to its ability to get rid of mosquitos and actually speak of “cost-efficient, environmenally-sensitive bug elimination.”
Hanging it at least 20 feet away from where you are sitting keeps you from being exposed to the attraction zone (read: clouds of pesky bloodsuckers).
Strategically placing the Flowtron bug zapper near the source of the mosquitoes (i.e. on the route from the swamp or neighbors pond to your patio) is said to help. It’s also recommended to hang it between 4 and 6ft from the ground, not too close to a wall and use octenol in addition.
Depending on how they are employed, bug zappers seem to cause a decline in attacks eliminating the need for citronella torches, sprays, and long sleeves in the yard.
What to make of this controversy? Read the user reviews of the most popular bug control device on Amazon, the Flowtron BK-15D Electronic Insect Killer and decide for yourself.
Burn pinion wood
The smoke of burning pinion and its pine scent wood repels mosquitoes according to some people. Burn the wood in a patio fireplace, chiminea or pit. There’s no research available on the efficacy of this method. Lowes is one of the stores that sell this type of wood.
Vacuum and other traps
According to some these are the most powerful mosquito traps available because they lure with a CO2 plume and vacuum the mosquitoes in. These electricity or propane powered traps may use octenol to attract even more skeeters.
Similar devices use oscillating UV light and pulsing heat core systems to mimic subtle changes in human body temperature and thus attract mosquitoes and catch them in nets.
User experiences with various traps seem to vary greatly and to depend on personal situations and methods of use. Some users note finding bags full of mosquito butts after a night´s use while others mention catching only a few moths.
Unreliable repelling systems
Mosquito coils
Theoretically ‘smoke coils’ work but in day to day practice they are pretty much useless.
Outdoor mosquito coils burn Citronella oil which is derived from a specific type of lemongrass. Not only is the smoke quickly dissipated by wind but breathing it in may also be harmful to our health.
University of Illinois’ Dr. Robert Novak tested mosquito coils for ABC News and reported mosquitoes simply attacked the uncovered by smoke body parts.
when the smoke covered a human test subject’s shin, the mosquitoes flew around the subject’s leg and bit them on the calf.
Citronella wax buckets and barrels
Citronella oil in itself has some repelling abilities. Listed since 1948 by the FDA as a Generally Recognized as Safe biofungicide it works because the strong citrus-like scent masks the CO2 we exhale that attracts mosquitoes.
Due to this method of action, scented candles, a.k.a conceal candles can also provide a degree of protection. Other options are burning citronella essential oils in a burner.
Candles need to be placed close to where you are sitting and belong to the most inexpensive choices available. A little bit of wind however or being out of reach of the candles may result in instant bites.
Growing pest-repelling plants
It is a common practice in Africa and other parts of the world to grow mosquito repellent plants. The presence of certain aromatic foliage is commonly claimed to help keep the bugs at a distance.
This however is more out of necessity (they often have no other options) than out of effectivity. The reason these plants are grown in Third World countries is because really effective repellents such as DEET are not readily available.
Contrary to popular belief, plants themselves do not repel mosquitoes. Or only minimally.
Bug blocking plants produce strong volatile oils when the plant is touched or processed. These scents are used to mask scents people emit thus interfering with mosquitoes looking for prey.
Certain plants contain substances toxic to insects. These are commonly used as last resort measures in third world countries to make DIY insect sprays.
The common glorification of plants and botanical mosquito sprays despite, mosquitoes are too persistent to be deterred by these measures.
Things that do not work
Citrosa plants
The venerated Citrosa plant, a.k.a. Pellargonium citrosum, a.k.a. Pelargonium ‘Van Leenii’ is much ado about nothing. The best plant to get rid of mosquitoes according to uninformed believers, a hoax to the skeptic and informed.
Studies show that Pelargonium citrosum is ineffective in repelling Aedes aegypti mosquitos.
“Not only was the plant ineffective at protecting humans against Aedes mosquito bites, the mosquitoes were seen landing and resting on the citrosa plant on a regular basis.” (Wikipedia)
Ultrasonic repelling devices
Zappers may be controversial because of their indiscriminate action, ultrasonic emitters just don’t work. Supposedly causing a deafening 10,000 hertz sound wave these gadgets are pretty much useless. The thing is, mosquitoes can not hear that frequency. Just like humans can not.
Birds and bats
A popular tip offered on many websites is to get a bat or bird house. A single bat will eat almost 1000 mosquitos in an hour is the claim.
By introducing bat and bird houses to the yard you are supposedly creating a natural way of managing the skeeter problem.
Science shreds such old wives tales to pieces though. Various studies demonstrate that mosquitoes form less than 1% of the diet of wild bats.
Birds as keepers of the mosquito-free yard are another popular fallacy. The diet of Purple martins consists of about 3% mosquitoes according to research.
In summary
Getting rid of mosquitoes entirely in your garden may prove very difficult, perhaps impossible.
Treatment of water and taking away potential standing water vessels are the most efficient steps but even if you manage to make your yard completely free of breeding spots mosquitoes can fly in from miles away.
Of course misters and repellent devices can add to the mix allowing you to take matters in own hands (as much as possible).
Which approach or product will be best will depend on your personal situation. By reading this list in which we dispel myths and list methods that really work we you are setting the first step into a mosquito free yard (or at least a less pestered yard).
Taking action will help you take back your yard so you can spend time with friends and family without the nuisances and health risks caused by these miserable little gits.
What works for you? Or did not work?
Got some tips or experiences to add? Have any questions?
it takes more than a cork hat to protect yourself from mosquitoes
Making everything in the yard as dry as possible would be ideal to get rid of the pest but you may want to keep your nice Koi pond.
you may reduce the influx of the flying pests in your yard.
