Mosquito biting human skin. Many factors can attract mosquitoes, including blood type and body scent.

What Attracts Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes thrive in places with stagnant water, such as ponds, wetland areas, and even unnoticed water-filled toys in your yard, which serve as perfect breeding spots. In addition to water, mosquitoes are attracted to your blood, breath, and scent, and while some individuals seem to be more attractive to mosquitoes than others, these pests will take any opportunity to feed.

Why Are Mosquitoes in My Yard?

An increase in mosquitoes around your property is often due to stagnant water. In Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky, as spring and summer approach, mosquitoes become more active, searching for places to lay their eggs. Bird baths, gardens, ponds, playsets, clogged gutters, pools, and hot tubs are common breeding grounds for these pests.

Mosquitoes become more active during warmer seasons, making them harder to ignore as the temperature climbs. When they discover a favorable environment, they waste no time turning your outdoor area into their breeding site.

What Attracts Mosquitoes to Humans?

If you’ve ever wondered why some people are mosquito magnets, or have been the target yourself, it’s an interesting question. Mosquitoes are generally attracted to three key things:

  • Blood: Mosquitoes rely on blood for survival, and they use their specialized proboscis to extract it. People with Type O blood are more attractive to mosquitoes than those with other blood types. Additionally, genetic factors can influence how likely someone is to get bitten.
  • Scent: Certain substances emitted by your body, such as uric acid, lactic acid, and ammonia, attract mosquitoes. Those with higher body temperatures or who sweat more tend to be more appealing to these insects. Even floral fragrances can make you a mosquito target.
  • Breath: Mosquitoes have antennae that detect carbon dioxide, which we exhale. They can sense this gas from a distance of over 150 feet, helping them locate humans quickly based on the amount of carbon dioxide they produce.

What to Do When Mosquitoes Are Around

When your yard turns into mosquito central and a family member always seems to be their favorite target, warm weather months can be tough. It’s best to call a mosquito control expert early each year to reduce the risk.

Hiring a professional mosquito control service is the most effective way to keep your yard from becoming overrun. At Action Pest Control, we know how to identify and treat breeding sites so you can enjoy your outdoor space without constant mosquito trouble.

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What Attracts Mosquitoes in Indiana, Illinois & Kentucky?

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