Chester & Delaware County PA Rainfall Greatly Affects Local Mosquito and Tick Populations

You have probably heard the idiom April showers bring May flowers more than once throughout your life. It means that the rains and precipitation of April are likely to give way to a flourish of blooming flowers come May. 

However, even though April is a memory here at Mosquito Squad of Chester & Delaware Counties, we know that the recent rains will cause more than just flowers to bloom; it will also cause mosquito populations to bloom as well!

Chester and Delaware County, Pennsylvania, gets 46 inches of rain per year. The US average is 39. Our recent rainy weather has increased the probability for a booming mosquito population this season. Mosquitoes, as well as ticks, can be greatly affected by storms and precipitation. The lack of, or abundance of, moisture readily available in the environment can influence their numbers and put a damper (no pun intended) on your outdoor living comfort.

There is nothing quite like enjoying the outdoors on a mild spring day. Flowers are beginning to show their colors, the buds on the trees are beginning to swell, the birds are busy feathering their nests and the air is fresh and alive with the excitement of the season. Then, you hear the buzz, feel a slight prick, and the magic of the moment ceases. Yes, the season brings more than just flowers it also brings the scourge of the mosquito!

Residents don’t fully realize the reality of just how little moisture is required to support a thriving mosquito population or all of the areas around their own homes where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. Mosquitoes that live in close association with humans typically breed in containers that are holding water, from clogged gutters to birdbaths, planters, tarps, kiddie pools and even in items as small as a soda bottle cap.

How Rain Affects Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes need water to be able to thrive; they lay their eggs in it and spend the first part of their life as water-dwelling insect before their wings have fully grown. The more rain, the more puddles, the more standing water and that means more places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. After storms and rain showers, it is important to inspect your property in order to address any areas in your yard that may have accumulated water. Mosquito Squad of Chester & Delaware Counties works with homeowners to eliminate mosquitoes, ticks and other biting bugs from their yards. In order to enhance the value and effectiveness of any of our treatments, we have put together a page of helpful tips for homeowners dedicated to identifying and addressing which areas of your yard are likely breeding sites.

How Rain Affects Ticks

Ticks require three essential elements in any given environment to survive: warm temperatures, humidity and a plethora of potential hosts. Since ticks aren’t capable of drinking water they require a climate with enough humidity present to stay hydrated. Areas of greater rainfall increase the relative humidity present as a result of evaporation, thus making the ideal environment for ticks to thrive.

The season’s special moments, like so many others, spent trying to relish the glory of the outdoors begs the question; Is there anything that you can do to reduce mosquitoes and ticks and the threat of the vector-borne illnesses they carry in your West Chester, Newtown Square or Mainline backyard this year? Actually, there is.

Mosquito Squad of Chester & Delaware Counties offers smart solutions for season-long mosquito and tick control. Mosquito and tick control is a group effort. By ensuring your yard is not a breeding ground, you can help reduce the populations within your yard and areas in close proximity to your home. We can ensure your property is pest-free this season so you can focus on the benefits and enjoyment of outdoor living.

Call Mosquito Squad of Chester & Delaware Counties to learn more at (610) 463-0507 or via email at chestercounty@mosquitosquad.com.

Request a quote for mosquito and tick control at your Chester or Delaware County, PA property today!