There’s been a huge hatch of mosquitoes lately, and killing them one at a time is a losing battle. If you’re experiencing an unusual number of mosquitoes around your house, there are ways to cut down on the populations. Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Linda Wimmer says you can try to kill them before they hatch.
"There’s something called mosquito Beaters which you can spread around your lawn, but again it’s almost too late. It’s sort of like a disease in the garden. When you see it it’s too late. So you want to pre-prepare for this," she said.
Another way to cut down on the populations is to cut down on the vegetation around your home.
"If you have a property with Cedars, Pine, I don’t care what they are, and you want to try to get rid of some of those mosquitoes, you’re going to want to cut those trees up unless you want to get rid of all your landscaping," Wimmer added.
If wiping out your landscaping doesn’t appeal to you, consider protecting yourself from getting bit.
"Head netting. Don’t underestimate it. I have put things on my face and had them go in my ears, so don’t think that’s crazy."
There’s also repellants you can wear around your waist, and natural bug sprays.
"You can use citronella, and make sure it is lemon grasses. That is what works. Lemon grasses," said Wimmer.
Don’t forget the little buggers are ankle biters.
"Do your tightly weaved clothing. You know tuck your pants into your socks if you’re out and about going in wooded areas. You may want to consider… I’m not big on Deet, but some people use it," she said.
Deet is a strong chemical that does keep mosquitoes away, but it may not be appropriate for everyone. Utica Resident Phaedra Hagans uses all natural products on herself and her animals.
"I buy a natural spray without Deet. I don’t like that sticky…. I don’t like that feeling, and it works. If I have to put it on every hour I do, but it keeps the mosquitoes at bay."
Wimmer has been checking state-wide websites, and has seen very little in the way of mosquito borne disease locally, but with the amount of mosquitoes circulating, a little protection could go a long way. For more information about mosquitoes you can go to Cornell Cooperative Extension's website: cceoneida.com.
