Are you one of those people who can never catch a break from mosquito bites? Although many of us know a “mosquito magnet” or are one ourselves, it’s hard to say why one person would be more attractive to mosquitoes than another. While experts still haven’t worked out the specifics on which bodily qualities mosquitoes prefer, we do know a lot about the signals that mosquitoes look for and the activity that amplifies these signals. If you’re looking to be strategic about avoiding mosquito bites in Florida this year, read on for advice from the mosquito exterminators at Florida Pest Control!
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Certain People Over Others?
Although we still don’t know exactly how to predict who mosquitoes will prefer, we do know a lot about the signals that they use to find hosts to feed on and what we do to make ourselves more apparent as eligible. The more physically active we are around mosquito breeding grounds, the more likely we are to be discovered. Here’s why:
- Our breath: Carbon dioxide is the main indicator of potential hosts in the area that mosquitoes use. When we exhale, we release CO2 into the air, tipping off mosquitoes to our presence. Exercise or prolonged physical activity outdoors will cause you to breathe heavier, letting out more CO2.
- Our body odor: The more you perspire, the greater chance your scent will attract nearby mosquitoes. Strong perfumes and some dietary choices will also catch mosquitoes’ attention.
- Our temperature: Wearing dark clothing and getting exercise can both increase your internal body temperature and make you more likely to be detected by mosquitoes.
Wondering How to Avoid Mosquito Bites?
The best way to avoid mosquito bites is to stay inside with the windows and doors shut. But who wants to do that? Our beautiful Florida springs and summers are meant to be enjoyed out in the sunshine. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from mosquito bites outside:
- Avoid stagnant water: Mosquitoes lay eggs in pools of standing water. They will make use of larger bodies of water like ponds and tiny pools of it that collect in your gutters. Inspect your yard to cover or pour out any standing water that you find.
- Wear clothing accordingly: Wearing dark colors in the sun will trap heat around you and raise your body temperature, making you more likely to be found by mosquitoes. White and light-colored clothing (or, better yet, long sleeved shirts and pants) will decrease your chances of bites.
- Use bug spray: EPA-approved bug sprays that use DEET or picaridin are your safest and most effective options for insect repellent. All-natural alternatives like citronella candles and lemon eucalyptus oil can also work well, albeit with less longevity.
How Can Mosquito Control Help?
If mosquitoes seem to be an inevitable problem for you every year, reach out to your local exterminators. At Florida Pest Control, we train our mosquito control team to conduct thorough barrier treatments that can protect the perimeter of your property for months at a time. To learn more about our mosquito abatement services and get a free quote, contact us today!
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