When people think of dangerous Baltimore creatures, they often imagine snakes and bears. While those animals could be harmful to humans, other dangers come in a smaller package. Mosquitoes might be small, but they’re more of a threat than most larger insects and animals. Learn just how dangerous mosquitos in Baltimore can be.

Things You Should Know About Mosquitoes

Even though you probably know what mosquitoes look like, there are some things you might not know about these common pests. For one, the name “mosquito” means little fly. And although there are a few resemblances between flies and mosquitoes, they are two very different pests.

Mosquitoes are easiest identified by their long proboscis. Used to suck nectar or, in the case of female mosquitoes, blood, the proboscis is a system of needlelike spears. There are over 3,500 species of mosquitoes, and almost all of them have females who bite humans or animals.

If you see a thin insect with a long nose and thin, long legs, you could be looking at a mosquito. And chances are, there are more of these Baltimore pests nearby. They breed quickly and are likely to make your yard an uncomfortable place.

What Makes Baltimore Mosquitoes So Dangerous?

There are a few issues with mosquitoes in Baltimore. First, there’s the fact that mosquitoes deliver an itchy bite. After a mosquito pierces your skin, its saliva causes a minor reaction. Almost everyone develops an itchy welt after being a victim of a mosquito bite. However, certain people develop more significant reactions. You could experience swelling and pain at the site of the bite.

The itchy sensation is an annoyance but could also cause medical issues. If your scratching introduces bacteria into the bite, you may end up with an infection. Without medical treatment, the infection could spread.

The most serious danger associated with mosquitoes is their ability to transmit deadly diseases. Malaria, dengue fever, and Zika are all associated with mosquitoes. Although not every mosquito will make you sick, they could be carrying a serious illness. With every mosquito bite comes a risk. They’re regarded as one of the most dangerous animals on the planet.

What You Should Be Doing To Minimize The Danger

Besides wearing bug spray, there’s not too much you can do to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Not all bug sprays work well, and they still leave you vulnerable to bites. Likewise, wearing long sleeves won’t guarantee that mosquitoes can’t get to you. The proboscis of this insect can get through most fabrics, which means you’re never truly protected.

Your best bet at staying safe is to find ways to make the property less appealing to mosquitoes. This includes:

  • Removing Still Water: Mosquitoes can’t breed in running water, but they can breed in stagnant water. If you have puddles, small pools, or pet dishes in your yard, you could have areas for mosquitoes to reproduce. Junk piles also tend to accumulate water. As soon as you notice the standing water, remove it. Come up with ways to prevent the issue from occurring again.
  • Trim Greenery: Your bushes and long grasses could attract mosquitoes. Vegetation raised the humidity, and this is the ideal environment for mosquitoes. For the sake of your comfort and safety, you should limit the amount of lush greenery you have in your yard. Trim your grass and your shrubs regularly.

Work With A Pro

The most effective form of mosquito prevention is to work with us at Pest Czar. Our experts have decades of experience and access to the latest technology. We provide ongoing, effective protection against mosquitoes. Call us today to learn more and to get started.