WASHINGTON — The blistering summer heat in the DMV area brings more than just discomfort to humans — it's also affecting mosquito behavior. But are these pests thriving or dwindling in the extreme temperatures?
A Reddit user recently asked, "Yo, where are the mosquitos?" The responses were mixed, so we're here to clarify things
It's crucial to understand that mosquitoes are cold-blooded, meaning they can't regulate their own body temperature and must depend on external temperatures to operate.
Experts say that mosquitoes thrive at 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (F), becoming sluggish around 60 degrees F, and are unable to function at 50 degrees F. But what happens when temperatures exceed 90 degrees F?
Just like how mosquitoes are less active in colder temperatures, they also tend to move less and bite less when it gets too hot.
The primary driver of mosquito behavior is humidity, with mosquitoes surprisingly less active during the peak heat of a sunny summer afternoon. Relative humidity typically dips during the hottest part of the day, which corresponds to the least active period for mosquitoes due to the dry conditions.
However, as temperatures cool, mosquitoes become more aggressively hungry, leading them to feed most frequently at dawn and dusk.
In addition, when the weather is hot for days or weeks at a time, mosquitos' breeding season extends.
So, the contrasting observations of fewer or more mosquitoes this summer depend on the time of day you venture outdoors.
Tips and tricks to avoid the pests and stay bite-free:
Use mosquito repellent: Apply an effective mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
Wear protective clothing: Cover up with long sleeves, pants, and socks to minimize exposed skin.
Avoid peak mosquito times: Stay indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Use mosquito nets: Utilize nets over beds or around sitting areas to create a barrier against mosquitoes.
Remove standing water: Eliminate sources of standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
Keep screens intact: Ensure windows and doors have screens without holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.
Use fans: Use fans outdoors to create airflow, which can help deter mosquitoes from landing on you.
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