Extension

A swarm of mosquitoes can quickly turn an enjoyable time outdoors into an itchy, unpleasant experience. While spraying for mosquitoes may seem like a good idea, these sprays harm many beneficial insects such as butterflies, bees, moths, ladybugs, dragonflies, lightning bugs and more. Many residential sprays contain insecticides known as pyrethroids, which kill beneficial insects, so spraying to kill adult mosquitoes isn’t the best way to manage the problem.

 

Oklahoma is home to more than 325 species of native bees, 170 species of native butterflies and 1,600 species of native moths. The state is located centrally in the pathway of a variety of migratory species, including the monarch butterfly. However, the population of native pollinators such as the monarch butterfly, has been on the decline for several years.

 

There are a number of ways to safely and effectively protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes while also protecting the much-needed native pollinators.

 

• Eliminate sources of standing water and organic debris in the landscape where mosquitoes breed. Flower pot saucers, pet bowls, gutters and even children’s toys are places where water can accumulate.
• Maintain the landscape to limit dense undergrowth such as ivy or heavy groundcover that can harbor adult mosquitoes.
• Add mosquito dunks to a bucket of water, fountains, decorate ponds, etc. These larvicides kill mosquitoes before they become biting adults.
• Protect yourself and your family by wearing light-colored, loose-fitting long sleeves and pants. Use mosquito repellent. Keep the screens on your home in good repair.
• Fans are a great way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Mosquitoes aren’t great flyers and will most often retreat when facing a breeze.
• Spread cedar mulch under outdoor chairs and tables. Add fresh mulch every month or two.
• Remember, the best approach to mosquito control is at the larval stage.

 

Enacting some of these natural methods of mosquito control not only protects the family, but pets, too. Pyrethroids are toxic to pets, and when exposed, pets can experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and other symptoms. Plus, runoff can wash these toxic chemicals from the landscape into surface waters.

 

Be aware of companies and products using buzzwords such as green, biodegradable, natural or derived from flowers. While these words may make customers feel comfortable applying pesticides to their landscape, pyrethroid insecticides are enhanced, synthetic versions of natural pyrethrin, which is derived from chrysanthemum flowers and is deadly to most insects.