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Tips to keep invasive 'ankle-biter' mosquitoes at bay

Date: September 27, 2021

mosquito

Aggressive "ankle biters" are on the rise in the region, according to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District. The invasive Aedes mosquito is an aggressive black-and-white insect that is thriving in populations across the State. Officials say the mosquitoes bite at all times of the day and are multiplying. Warm weather and standing water keep the mosquitoes breeding. 

To help keep these ankle biters and other types of mosquitoes at bay, it is essential that residents do their part in eliminating standing water on their properties. Even a capful of water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.

Remember the following precautions to help reduce the chances of getting bitten by mosquitoes:

  • Dump and drain any containers filled with water at least once a week
  • Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
  • Dump water from potted plant saucers
  • Do not transport or share plant stems rooted in water
  • Drill a hole or puncture containers to eliminate standing water
  • Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended
  • Wear repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
  • Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter-colored clothing

Visit ocvector.org to learn more about what you can do to prevent mosquito breeding in and around your property.

Comments

Submitted by Carl A Brown on Fri, 10/01/2021 - 7:32 am

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THERE ARE SOME TRAPS MADE IN EUROPE, ONLY SOLD TO PEST CONTROL OPERATORS, ASK YOUR FAVORITE SERVICE COMPANY ABOUT THEM. PERHAPS ONE SMART COMPANY WILL BUY A TRUCKLOAD.

Submitted by Kathy Krieger on Sat, 10/02/2021 - 11:41 am

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What is the city doing on the golf course to prevent mosquitoes? It seems the ponds at 4-15 and 18 can be breeding grounds. Residents of Cypress Point have complained about significant increase in mosquitoes this year. Comments please
HOA Board Member

Submitted by Stretch Head on Mon, 09/05/2022 - 12:34 pm

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I made an all natural repellent that you can either spray your yard or your legs and arms. All mosquitoes will leave you alone.

I gallon of distilled water, take out about a cup
Add these
2/3 cup witch hazel
1 1/2 teaspoon lemongrass oil
1 tablespoon cedarwood oil

It works great. I had to get cedarwood oil online.

Submitted by GB on Sun, 10/01/2023 - 12:50 pm

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Why can't I find online how to actually kill ankle biters in my home? I see how to keep them at bay, and tips on removing water etc. But how do you find and kill them in the home???? I've cleaned my wood floors with orange oil, burn mint incense, etc. As I said, I want to know how to KILL them. I can hardly see them.

Submitted by City Staff on Mon, 10/02/2023 - 12:35 pm

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Thank you for your comment on the News page. Much of the material published by the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District concerns tips about prevention, but for more information you may inquire with Vector Control directly at ocvcd@ocvector.org or 949-654-2421.

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