Find and drain every standing water source
Mosquitoes need still water to breed. Even a bottle cap of water is enough.
- Saucers under outdoor pots.
- Buckets, watering cans, kid toys.
- Tarps and folded patio furniture covers.
- Clogged gutters and downspout pools.
- Bird baths — change water twice a week.
Treat water you can't remove
Mosquito dunks contain BTI, a bacterium that kills mosquito larvae but is safe for fish, birds, and pets.
Barrier sprays — when to consider them
Professional barrier sprays applied to shaded shrubs reduce adult mosquitoes for 2–3 weeks. Skip blooming plants to protect bees.
Pest control disclaimer. Photo-based identification can help, but it is not always perfect. For dangerous spiders, large infestations, or anything you are unsure about, contact a licensed pest control professional.