Photo Album: Pest Control in Colts Neck, NJ
Draining All Over the Lawn
As soon as I began my inspection I immediately noticed that a PVC pipe that this homeowner used for draining water from the sump pump was improperly relocating the water to the front of the home. The number-one factor that will attract mosquitoes to your property is the presence of stagnant water in or around your yard. Mosquitoes need stagnant water to lay their eggs.
Gutters Causing Puddles
Continuing my inspection, I discovered that the gutters and the drainage pipe weren't draining the water properly and puddles were forming. Believe it or not, mosquitoes only need enough water to fill a bottle cap to breed in. Anything from a bucket of water or plant pot to a pool or fountain can turn into a breeding ground if you're not careful.
Wet Mulch Means More Mosquitos
I also came across a water leak from a spigot that was causing a build-up of water on the mulch. Wet mulch can hold enough moisture below the surface to attract mosquitoes. Once mosquitoes identify an area as moist enough to lay eggs, they will nest there, and other mosquitoes will follow.
Mosquitos Love Tires
As I continued inspecting the exterior, I also came across an unusual discovery - discarded tires that were filled with garbage. Apparently, the business owner was saving them to build a tire swing at his home. Not only does garbage and food debris attract mosquitos, but mosquitoes are particularly fond of old tires. After sitting around for a while, tires can become filled with nutritious leaves for mosquitoes to feed on for energy. Additionally, the thick, rubbery composition of tires also helps provide insulation and protection for mosquito eggs, making them the perfect nest for a new spawn of pests to grow.
Flooding the Parking Lot
Finally, I noticed that the water draining from the gutters were flooding into the parking lot, causing a significant build-up of water. Now that I identified all the problem areas it's time for a solution. The most important step in mosquito control is to eliminate any standing water that can accumulate around your home.
Let's Get Spraying
I presented these areas to the homeowners and they informed me they will hire a contractor to address and perform the necessary repairs. However, the pressing issue of mosquitos still needed to be addressed. I equipped my backpack mister and treated the entire exterior of the home with a direct contact residual. Any mosquitos that come into contact with this residual are eliminated. In a short amount of time, there will be no more mosquitos and the property will be pest-free.