We all know that mosquito bites are no fun, especially on our feet. The irritation only worsens when our feet rub against socks and other articles of clothing.
So, why do mosquitoes like to go for our feet and ankles? Aedes mosquitoes are often known as ankle biters, and they bite people’s feet and ankles for several reasons. If you’re dealing with these pesky insects on your property, there are ways to deter them. But the best solution is to contact the professionals. Pest control specialists know how to manage the infestation.
Mosquito Bites on the Feet: Why They Happen and How to Prevent Them
Aedes mosquitoes are incredibly annoying. No matter how much we cover up, they can find small areas of exposed skin to bite. They do this by using their antennae, which have hundreds of receptors that can detect the chemicals in our bodies and the carbon dioxide we exhale.
Different people have different reactions to mosquito bites. While it’s nothing but a red, itchy mark for some, it can lead to swelling for others. Aedes mosquitoes also can transmit the viruses that cause the dengue virus and other diseases.
Depending on the type of Aedes mosquito you are dealing with, they will look different. However, most Aedes mosquitoes are relatively small compared to other mosquito species. They often are dark in color and have white markings on their legs and abdomen.
If you see these pests flying around your property, here are some steps you can take to deter mosquitoes.
Eliminate Stagnant Water Indoors and Outdoors
Keep Aedes mosquitoes from breeding on your property by removing any stagnant water. Inspect your yard, bathrooms and kitchen, and remove anything that collects water. These invasive species will lay eggs anywhere there is standing water, including piles of leaves, soda cans, toys and trash.
If you love potted plants, don’t leave water in the saucers after watering them. Get rid of the saucers altogether, if possible. If you have outdoor containers, scrub them with hot water and soap before storing them in a dry place. That will remove any stubborn mosquito eggs hanging around.
Install Screens
Keep mosquitoes out of your home by equipping your windows and doors with screens. Check them regularly for holes and replace them when needed. It also helps to seal off cracks, gaps and other openings around your home. That way, there’s nowhere for them to squeeze through.
Contact a Pest Control Specialist
The best long-term solution for a mosquito infestation is professional help. Mosquitoes are no match for pest control specialists. They will assess the level of infestation in your home and decide on the best solution. You can also schedule regular professional treatment to keep mosquitoes away.
Do Male Mosquitoes Suck Blood?
Male mosquitoes aren’t to blame for the itchy bites we experience. Like females, they have a proboscis but don’t use it to bite people and animals. They’re content with plant juices like nectar for their nutrition. Only female mosquitoes bite people and animals.
So why do female mosquitoes bite us for our blood? They actually do it for the next generation of mosquitoes. They need a blood meal to produce healthy eggs. Unfortunately for us, human blood is an excellent source of iron, amino acids and proteins for mosquito babies.
Female mosquitoes aren’t too picky with their victims. But they do prefer certain blood types over others. Research has found that they favor people with Type O blood. Those who sweat a lot and produce more pheromones are also highly attractive to these bloodsuckers. Mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid and ammonia found in our sweat, so higher body temperatures and sweat will make you easier for mosquitoes to find.
Most mosquito species usually feed early in the morning and during sunset hours. They prefer to take shelter when the sun’s out. When female mosquitoes are not consuming human blood, they feed on plant sap and nectar, just like the males.
If the mosquitoes on your property are targeting you and your family, it’s time to contact pest control specialists. They will reduce the mosquito population on your property. They can also provide ongoing mosquito treatments.
Do Mosquitoes Have Venom?
Mosquito bites can sometimes carry diseases like dengue, Zika and yellow fever. But they don’t contain venom like other insects. The irritation we feel from their bites is from their saliva.
Mosquitoes have a proboscis, a long mouthpiece that resembles a needle and sticks out from their heads. They use it to pierce our skin and suck up blood while injecting saliva into our bloodstream. The females do this when they need a blood meal to produce healthy eggs.
Mosquito saliva contains an anticoagulant, which facilitates blood intake. The human body sees mosquitoes’ saliva as a foreign substance to fight off.
The immune system responds by producing histamine, raising the blood volume and white blood cell count in the affected area. That explains the swelling and itchiness we can experience.
Some people may develop a tolerance to mosquito bites over time and will stop reacting to them. But for most people, itchiness and swelling are a constant response. Most mosquito bites look like red and puffy bumps that appear a few minutes after a mosquito pierces the skin. They can also manifest as hard, reddish-brown bumps that appear several days after the bite.
If mosquitoes are ruining your peace at home, ask the pros for help. Pest control specialists will manage the infestation on your property, allowing you to enjoy your time indoors and outdoors again.
Control Mosquitoes With Professional Help
Mosquito bites on the feet are enough to ruin a relaxing time at home. But know that you don’t have to put up with these invasive pests. Contact a pest control specialist immediately if they’re taking over your property. A pro knows how to manage these pests so you can enjoy your time at home again.
ABC Can Reduce Mosquito Populations on Your Property
Don’t let pesky mosquitoes ruin your time outdoors. For a multi-tiered approach to mosquito control, contact ABC Home & Commercial Services. We will create a pest treatment plan that best suits your yard and needs. They can also provide you with advice on mosquito prevention for your yard.
