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Mosquitoes During the Summer!

About Us – Summer Mosquito Biology & IPM Control Solutions

6/20/2025

By: Michael Keith
Aedes aegypti 1
Understanding Mosquito Biology in the Summer

Mosquitoes are most active during the warm summer months, when higher temperatures accelerate their life cycle. Mosquitoes undergo complete metamorphosis, consisting of four stages:

  1. Egg – Laid on or near standing water.

  2. Larva – Aquatic, often called "wrigglers."

  3. Pupa – Transitional stage; still aquatic.

  4. Adult – Emerges to fly, feed, and reproduce.

During summer, the full cycle from egg to adult can take as little as 7–10 days, allowing populations to explode in a short period—especially when standing water is abundant. Female mosquitoes, which bite to obtain blood for egg production, are responsible for transmitting dangerous diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, dengue, and encephalitis.

Key biological behaviors during summer:

  • Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk.

  • Females lay 100–300 eggs at a time, often in small, stagnant water sources.

  • Mosquitoes can breed in containers as small as bottle caps.

  • They are highly adaptive, using natural and man-made habitats for reproduction.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Mosquitoes

At Cal Coast Pest Management, we take an IPM-first approach. IPM integrates multiple control methods to minimize pesticide use while maximizing effectiveness and long-term prevention. Here's how we break it down:

1. Inspection and Identification

  • We conduct detailed property inspections to identify breeding sites, such as clogged gutters, plant saucers, ponds, fountains, and shaded areas.

  • Mosquito species identification (e.g., Aedes aegypti vs. Culex) helps determine risk levels and informs treatment choices.

2. Source Reduction

  • Educating property owners on eliminating standing water weekly.

  • Modifying landscaping to reduce water retention.

  • Recommending proper maintenance of fountains, ponds, and drainage systems.

3. Biological Control

  • Mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) released in ornamental water features.

  • Use of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a naturally occurring bacterium toxic to mosquito larvae but safe for humans and wildlife.

4. Mechanical Control

  • Installing screens, air curtains, and repellent fans in outdoor areas.

  • Enhancing air circulation to reduce mosquito resting zones.

5. Chemical Control (as needed)

We use low-toxicity, targeted larvicides and adulticides only when necessary and always in accordance with EPA and California state regulations. Common product types include:

  • Larvicides: Altosid® (methoprene), Bti-based products, Natular® (spinosad).

  • Adulticides: Pyrethrin-based or synthetic pyrethroids like deltamethrin (e.g., Suspend®), or lambda-cyhalothrin (Demand® CS).

  • Insect growth regulators (IGRs) to prevent larval development.

In2Care Mosquito Trap – Eco-Innovative Mosquito Management

One of the most advanced tools in our mosquito control arsenal is the In2Care® Mosquito Trap, designed for professional use and ideal for sustainable summer protection.

How It Works:

  • Female mosquitoes enter the In2Care station to lay eggs.

  • Inside, they come into contact with a biocide + growth regulator.

  • The female then spreads larvicide to other breeding sites (autodissemination).

  • She also dies within days after exposure.

This system specifically targets Aedes mosquitoes, including Aedes aegypti—known for aggressive biting and Zika transmission.

Benefits of In2Care:

  • Non-toxic to pets and humans.

  • Targets larvae and adults.

  • Reduces local mosquito populations significantly.

  • Maintains efficacy during heat and heavy rainfall.

Additional Prevention & Community Awareness

  • Cal Coast Pest Management provides community education on mosquito awareness and safety tips.

  • We help clients understand how their property habits can influence mosquito populations.

  • Offer seasonal monitoring and automated treatment plans for continued protection.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Property the Right Way

At Cal Coast Pest Management, our mission is to provide reliable, science-backed, and environmentally responsible mosquito control solutions. Our expertise in mosquito biology, especially during peak summer breeding season, ensures we can deliver effective and sustainable results. Whether you need one-time service, seasonal programs, or full property IPM strategies, we are your trusted partner in mosquito prevention.

Let us help you reclaim your outdoor space. Contact Cal Coast Pest Management today for a free property inspection and customized mosquito control plan.