What homeowners should know about mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes need very little standing water to reproduce, and adult mosquitoes often rest in shaded, protected vegetation. Because new mosquitoes can fly in from surrounding properties, outdoor control is about reducing local populations and the conditions your yard can control—not promising a permanent zero-mosquito zone.
Signs to watch for
- Heavy biting activity in shaded parts of the yard
- Mosquitoes gathering near patios, decks, or entrances
- Standing water after rain or irrigation
- Activity around dense shrubs and ground cover
What may be attracting them
- Buckets, toys, planters, gutters, and other water-holding items
- Dense shaded vegetation
- Poor drainage and low yard areas
- Unused containers and tarps
Useful first steps
- Empty standing water at least weekly
- Clean gutters and correct drainage where practical
- Thin dense vegetation around gathering areas
- Use screens and close doors during peak activity
When to call House Call
Repeated activity usually deserves a closer look.
If the pest keeps returning, appears in multiple areas, creates a health or sting concern, or may be damaging the structure, professional inspection can help you avoid guesswork.
Explore Mosquito yard treatments →