Department of Code Enforcement

Health Information on Mosquito Control

One of the most effective ways to control mosquito populations that transmit disease is to reduce the number and types of mosquito breeding habitats in our community. All mosquitoes require a water source to lay eggs, which in the hottest part of the summer can hatch into larvae within a week. To effectively reduce larval hatching, check your property and your neighborhood for the following potential mosquito breeding sites:

Common Residential Hazards

Fountains, Birdbaths and Water

Gardens

These outdoor reservoirs can provide ideal habitat for breeding mosquitoes. Replace water in the birdbaths and fountains at least twice a week. Mosquito larvicides are available at many garden centers for consumers use and can be used in water gardens and fountains without harming other living things. Certain species of goldfish and freshwater minnows that eat mosquito larvae can be used in fountains and water gardens.

Tires

Tires are especially notorious mosquito breeding sites. They should be properly discarded, covered and stacked in a shed or garage so that they cannot fill with water. If you should have a tire swing, make a hole in the bottom of it to allow water to drain out.

Flower Pots, Garbage Cans, and Recycling Bins

These are found in every yard, and can hold enough water to breed mosquitoes. Drain dishes under flowerpots every few days and after rainstorms or move them inside.Cover outdoor trash and recycleling cans with tight-fitting lids.

Faucets and Air Conditioners

Remember that they can leak and form puddles that may provide mosquito-breeding habitat. Eliminate any standing water in puddles.

Rain Gutters and spouts

Gutters and down spouts need to be kept clean and maintained. Leaves and other debris can create pools of water and ideal environment fore mosquito larvae.

Animal Watering Troughs

These should be flushed at least twice a week to prevent them from becoming a breeding site.

Leaves and Debris

Clean up leaves and yard debris from low-lying areas to reduce stagnant water pools.

Plastic and Canvas Tarps

These are commonly used to cover log piles, boats, and pools, and they can hold enough water to breed mosquitoes. Make sure water does not collect in tarps used outdoors.

Wheelbarrows, Tubs, Wadding Pools and Boats

These should be stored upside down or under cover when not in use.

If you have further questions about how to control habitat where mosquitoes can breed or wish to report a site you think may constitute a breeding site for mosquitoes, contact Code Enforcement Officer Gary Craig #12, at Code Enforcement Department at 337-9517