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You hear all kinds of tips and tricks when it comes to repelling mosquitoes. Let us help you separate fact from fiction. Some of the tips are effective and others may waste your money.Mosquito Repellents - What Doesn't Work Electrocutor traps ("bug zappers") placed out of doors are not effective in reducing or eliminating mosquito populations. Studies have shown that less than � of 1% of the insects "zapped" in such devices were actually biting insects. The majority of the insects killed in electrocutor traps are actually beneficial in some form. Electronic mosquito repellents that emit high frequency sound to "repel" mosquitoes are not effective. Several types of mosquito traps that use radiant heat and/or chemicals such as carbon dioxide or octenol to attract mosquitoes are now being marketed in the U.S. There are no scientifically-based studies that prove that these traps are able to provide control of local mosquito populations. Some mosquito species such as Asian tiger mosquito are not even attracted to them. Scientifically-based studies show that plants placed around a porch or deck will NOT repel mosquitoes. Non-chemical Control Measures - What Works Installing and maintaining tight fitting screens on doors and windows will help keep mosquitoes out of the home. Bats and birds, such as Purple Martins, may consume mosquitoes as part of their diet. Install nesting boxes around your property to attract these natural predators to the area. However, bear in mind that the feeding activity of insect-eating bats and birds may not be sufficiently selective to cause noticeable reductions in mosquito populations. Candles containing oil of citronella are often used outdoors to repel mosquitoes from around decks and picnic tables. These products work best when there is relatively little air movement to disperse the chemical too quickly. Avoid splashing water on lit citronella candles - it can cause an explosive reaction. Chemical Control Measures Chemical control of mosquitoes primarily targets the adult mosquito. Outdoor foggers will keep mosquitoes away for several hours; but once the chemical dissipates, mosquitoes may return to the area. Spraying thickets or shrubs along the perimeter of your yard helps reduce the population of mosquitoes that rest in these areas. Call the Buncombe County Extension office (255-5522) for more information on selecting appropriate pesticides for use against mosquitoes. Homeowners wanting to treat small areas, such as bird baths, garden pools, etc, might want to try bacterial insecticides that are available at many retail stores, garden centers and on-line garden suppliers. There are several products formulated as "donuts" ("dunks") or as granules that contain the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis or "Bti". This bacterium kills mosquitoes, but does not harm fish, birds or other wildlife. The "dunk" versions are well-suited for small breeding sites (100 sq. ft. or less) and will control mosquito larvae for about 30 days. Before using Bti products, you need information on the life cycle and habitat requirements of mosquitoes in your area. Simply treating all areas of standing water without knowing if they are actually sources of the problem is a waste of time and money. Keep in mind that modifying or eliminating breeding sites is the only long-term solution to severe mosquito problems. (Image provided by Buncombe County.)
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