Wisconsin Mosquito Season

When temperatures reach a consistent 50 degrees, mosquito eggs begin hatching and mosquito season begins.  The season varies depending on your region.  Generally speaking, mosquito season in Wisconsin typically begins in early May.

Many people wait until they begin seeing mosquitoes, or when they begin getting bites to begin their mosquito control efforts.  However, by this time, the breeding populations have been established.  Preparation for controls should begin before mosquitoes have the opportunity to reproduce.  As the warmer weather arrives, their breeding cycle shortens which means an increase in mosquito population.  

What does this mean for us here in Wisconsin?  It means you want to begin taking the necessary precautions around your home before that 50 degrees arrives and stays.   

Here are some helpful tips to reduce mosquito populations in your yard: 

Remove any objects that may be collecting water –  It is important to not overlook these potential water collection vessels such as bird feeders, flower pots, old tires, trash, and buckets just to name a few. 

Clean gutters and downspouts – These can become clogged with leaves and debris over the Winter.  Mosquitoes are attracted to these areas of standing water.

Fill in low lying areas on your property – After the snow has melted, survey your property and look for any low areas and ditches which can collect water when it rains. Try to fill them in if possible.  

Fill in hollow logs – Fill in or remove any hollow logs on your property as these can be a potential habitat for hibernating mosquitoes in the Winter’s to come.

Locate and repair any window screens that may be damaged –  A 16-18 mesh is the recommended size for pest control purposes.

Repair Cracks and Leaks – They can provide easy entry for mosquitoes.  Also, cracks can fill with water creating pools of standing water.

While mosquito-proofing your home will go a long way toward preventing these common breeding areas, it will remain difficult to keep these relentless pests away for the entire season.