There’s no doubt that the mosquito is one of the most annoying pests, they bite and they always seem to show up in large numbers. This is this time of year when mosquitoes start to come around and can easily get out of control. But there are some easy steps to take to control and reduce the number of mosquitoes around the yard and house.

1. Clean gutters
2. Change the water in bird baths every week
3. Put fish in the garden pond…the fish will eat mosquito larvae
4. Drain kiddie pools on a regular basis

The basic idea is to avoid stagnant water where mosquitoes could use as a breeding ground. It may also be helpful to hire a professional pest control service to treat shrubs and bushes around the house; mosquitoes most likely hang out in these spots during the day.

Controlling the mosquito population not only avoids annoying bug bites but it also helps prevent diseases from being spread; malaria, encephalitis and the West Nile virus can be spread by mosquitos.

• California is home to over 50 species of mosquitoes
• Mosquitoes can be found throughout California from the desert to the mountains
• Many species of mosquitoes in California don’t post a health threat to people but several species do
• The mosquitoes that cause problems in California belong to the  Aedes, Anopheles and Culex genera

For more detailed information, read this overview of mosquito control practices in California.