If you’ve spent any time outside recently, you may have noticed a particularly aggressive mosquito buzzing around during the daytime, not just at dusk. If so, you may have met the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), an invasive species that’s become a growing concern for homeowners across Connecticut.
We know you might be concerned, and that you may have questions about these mosquitoes: What makes them different, what kind of risks they pose, and how to protect their family.
Here’s what you need to know.
What the heck is an Asian Tiger Mosquito?
The Asian tiger mosquito gets its name from its black body and “conspicuous” white stripes, which definitely make it look different than your typical Connecticut pest. But the biggest difference between these little vampires and the variety we’re used to is that these mosquitoes feed during the day, not just at dawn and dusk. They’re also more aggressive (because of course they are), far more likely to follow you inside or into your car, and (again, of course) far more likely to bite more than once as they feed. And they don’t need much water to breed. Just a bottle cap full of standing water is enough.
Originally from Southeast Asia, they’ve been spreading across the U.S. since the 1980s. But the world is getting smaller and the climate is actually getting warmer, so they’re now well-established in much of the Northeast, including Connecticut.
Do they really pose more of a threat than other mosquitoes?
All mosquito bites are annoyingly itchy, and really, any mosquito can carry disease. But Asian tiger mosquitoes can carry serious diseases, including:
- West Nile virus
- Zika virus
- Dengue fever
- Chikungunya
While these diseases are still rare in Connecticut, the risk is growing, especially with increased global travel and warmer seasonal temperatures that allow these mosquitoes to thrive longer and reproduce faster.
Even without disease, their aggressive biting can really put a damper on any enjoyment of your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re enjoying an ice cream on the patio or sipping chardonnay on the porch, the bites can be enough to drive you indoors.
How can you protect your family and guests?
Of course, mosquito repellents with DEET are a powerful first line of defense. If you don’t like using harsh chemicals, though, the good news is you can still take action to reduce the threat and enjoy your yard safely. Here’s how:
- Eliminate standing water: Asian tiger mosquitoes lay eggs in small pools of stagnant water. Anything from flowerpot saucers to birdbaths and gutters — even an ashtray left on an end table can become a breeding pool. Check your property regularly and dump anything that’s accumulated water.
- Mosquito-repelling plants can help: While they’re not foolproof, certain plants like catnip, marigolds, and citronella may contribute to discouraging mosquitoes if you plant them around patios, decks, and other places you gather with family and friends.
- Fans and screens create physical barriers: Keeping doors and windows screened will prevent mosquitoes from getting into the house. Adding outdoor fans on decks and patios can be surprisingly effective. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and less likely to linger in moving air. Also, as the fan moves air, it disperses carbon dioxide and other chemicals that mosquitoes rely on to detect food, effectively making you harder to find!
- Wear light-colored clothes: Asian tiger mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, as well as perspiration and carbon dioxide. Wearing light, breathable fabrics can make you less appealing to them, and it’s a lot easier than holding your breath the whole time you’re outdoors.
Try Repel solutions from Connecticut Green.
Connecticut Green is proud to offer safer solutions for controlling mosquitoes in your yard. One great option we’ve just begun offering this year is the In2Care® Mosquito Station, a low-maintenance, EPA-approved solution. In2Care helps control mosquitoes without spraying toxic chemicals all over your property.
These discreet traps attract female mosquitoes and contaminate them with a larvicide and fungus. The mosquito unknowingly spreads the larvicide to breeding sites, stopping future generations before they start. The fungus kills the adult mosquito before it can transmit disease. It’s a safe and highly effective option for families with children, pets, and pollinator-friendly gardens.
Because the In2Care station may take a few weeks to have an impact, we also offer safe pesticide sprays derived from garlic to keep your family safe. Applied monthly, these sprays are an effective way to repel mosquitoes and enjoy your yard all summer long.
Reclaim your yard
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your summer. It’s our goal to help you make your outdoor spaces safer, healthier, and more enjoyable… without dousing everything in chemicals.
If you have questions about mosquito control or you’d like to schedule a consultation for In2Care Mosquito Stations, give us a call.
