What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes will always look for still water to lay their eggs on. This could mean that pools, ponds, marshes, gutters, and more places on your property could be attracting mosquitoes.
When looking for a host, mosquitoes are attracted to your blood, your scent, your breath, and even your blood type! It is unknown why some people are more prone to mosquito bites than others, but we do know that mosquitoes will feed on any accessible host.
Why Are There Mosquitoes in My Yard?
Mosquitoes seek out areas with standing water. Starting around late April in Iowa, mosquitoes might be drawn to many areas around your home. Most commonly, mosquitoes are seen buzzing around bird baths, gardens, ponds, playsets, spas, gutters, pools, and more. They are not picky about their source of stagnant water and will lay their eggs just about anywhere. Mosquito populations increase as the temperatures rise, so expect to see an increase in their activity in your yard come summertime.
Do You Have a Mosquito Problem? We Can Help.
Click the button below to leave your information & we'll be in touch in an hour or less.
Get a FREE, no-obligation quote!
"*" indicates required fields
*During normal business hours. After hours calls will be returned the next business day.
What Attracts Mosquitoes to Humans?
Whether you know a “mosquito magnet” or you are one yourself, there is still plenty of uncertainty around what attracts mosquitoes to certain humans rather than others. We do know that there are three main things mosquitoes are attracted to:
- Breath. Female mosquitoes have long antennae and organs designed to pick up on odors. These parts help them detect carbon dioxide, which is produced when someone exhales. Mosquitoes can detect a high concentration of carbon dioxide from over 150 feet away. This tactic helps them find hosts to feed on.
- Blood. Everyone has the one thing mosquitoes need to survive: blood! Mosquitoes use their proboscis to pierce through our skin and draw blood. But are some people more susceptible to mosquito bites based on blood type? Researchers have demonstrated that individuals with Type O blood may be more likely to be bitten than those with Type A. Scientists have also concluded that genetic make-up can contribute to someone being more prone to mosquito bites.
- Scent. Research has shown that mosquitoes are attracted to naturally produced scents. Substances like lactic acid, uric acid, and ammonia released from the glands in your skin can attract mosquitoes. Additionally, people who perspire more or have a higher internal body temperature are more vulnerable to mosquito bites. Sometimes floral fragrances and perfumes can attract mosquitoes, too.
What Attracts Mosquitoes Around Iowa?
If your yard has become infested with mosquitoes and someone in your family is particularly prone to bites, spring and summertime can be difficult to deal with. Always contact a mosquito exterminator to help decrease the likelihood of a mosquito outbreak in your yard.
What Attracts Mosquitoes in Des Moines?
Serving Central Iowa since 1989
Des Moines | West Des Moines | Cedar Rapids | Davenport | Iowa City | Urbandale
Marshalltown | Fort Dodge | Waterloo | Ankeny | Ames | Altoona | Bondurant | Waukee
Home » Mosquito Learning Center » Mosquito Identification » What Attracts Mosquitoes?