Summer Flooding in Stillwater and the Effect on Mosquitoes

Summer in Oklahoma brings rain showers that move across the plains, helping crops get established for the growing season. While the rain is good for farmers, it brings swarms of mosquitoes, unwanted and nuisances. Summer rain leaves behind countless pockets of standing water where mosquitoes can reproduce. As rainfall adds up, flooding is a worry that Stillwater homeowners need to pay attention to. Flooding can cause property damage, and the moisture attracts mosquitoes in droves to breed and thrive.

Flooding Means Mosquito Populations Boom

Mosquitoes need standing water to lay eggs in and raise larvae into new adult mosquitoes. The typical female mosquito will lay hundreds of eggs that will mature in as little as 10 days, sometimes a week if the temperatures and moisture are ideal.

Flooding and heavy rainfall leave water lingering around your property- sometimes in places you don't notice or think about. Check for low spots in the yard that may be hidden by tall grass, and gutters with even slight obstructions can hold enough water to allow mosquitoes to breed.

As Oklahoma's summer temperatures climb, mosquito activity often seems to explode. This is especially true with multiple rainy days in a row.

Identifying Hidden Places Mosquitoes Choose to Breed

Mosquitoes only need a very small amount of water to  live and breed in. If you're imagining they need a full marsh, that couldn't be further from the truth. After a storm, check these places and dump out any standing water to help prevent mosquitoes from establishing themselves.

• Buckets, wheelbarrows, and watering cans
• Clogged gutters and downspouts
• Birdbaths and pet water bowls
• Tarps covering equipment or firewood
• Children's outdoor toys
• Plant saucers and decorative containers
• Depressions in the yard that stay wet for several days

Reducing Mosquito Activity Around Your Yard

While it's impossible to control every mosquito in the neighborhood, a few proactive steps can help limit activity around your home. Above, we talked about dumping out the standing water around the yard to disrupt potential breeding locations. In addition, addressing any drainage concerns to prevent standing water in low areas will help reduce mosquitoes.

After hatching, mosquitoes live in deep grass and shrubs, lingering anywhere shaded and easy to hide in. Keeping grasses and landscaping trimmed will reduce the number of places mosquitoes have to hide. Pay close attention to the parts of the yard surrounding patios and decks where you spend the most time.

Professional Stillwater Mosquito Control

Getting ahead of the boom summer flooding causes in the mosquito population starts with basic yard maintenance, but doesn't end there. In an effort to reduce the mosquito population over time, opting for professional mosquito control in Stillwater can keep your yard more comfortable all summer.

Mosquito Squad Plus's recurring treatments are designed to target the areas mosquitoes rest and breed, helping control up to 85–90% of mosquitoes for up to 3 weeks, making it easier to enjoy your outdoor spaces during mosquito season. For homeowners looking for a botanical-based alternative, we also offer a natural mosquito treatment option that can be effective for up to 21 days. To learn more about Stillwater mosquito control, visit our Stillwater service page or contact Mosquito Squad Plus for a free quote.