Kelly Nichols, Agriculture Agent Associate
University of Maryland Extension, Frederick County
Warmer temperatures and higher humidity are slowly making their appearance. Unfortunately, this means mosquitoes will soon make their appearance as well. Mosquitoes not only are pesky as they fly around you, but are a health risk for humans and livestock, as they carry diseases such as West Nile Virus and Zika Virus. Female mosquitoes need stagnant, nutrient-rich water in order to lay their eggs. After the mosquito eggs hatch, the larvae and pupae will live in the water before becoming an adult. The easiest solution to get rid of mosquitoes is to remove places where this water can accumulate.
Items such as water troughs, buckets, wheelbarrows, and bird baths should be stored inside or upside down when not in use. If stagnant water does accumulate while these items are in use, dump the water and replace it regularly. Loader buckets should be tilted downwards when stored to prevent water accumulation. Get rid of unused tires, and do not pile tires outside. If tires are outside, including those on top of bunk silos, cut them in half to reduce water accumulation. Tarps that cover bales or equipment should be placed so that water can drain. Gutters should be cleaned regularly.
For water sources that can’t be removed, there are insecticides and products that create a film on top of the water. Be sure to read the label before use. Note that the pupae do not actually eat during this stage, and therefore cannot ingest an insecticide, so it is important to use the right product for the correct stage. Creating a film on top of the water’s surface prevents the pupae from being able to access air to survive. Crusts on manure pits can act as a film; however, keep in mind that if using an insecticide, the crust will prevent it from reaching the larvae. Reduce weeds around the pit to deter mosquito habitat. If ponding is occurring in fields and around the barnyard, determine the cause and take the necessary actions. These actions may include alleviating compaction, fixing gutters, or fixing drainage pipes.
