Over 80 species of mosquitoes call The Sunshine State home. Almost 1 in 4 are public health threats. They may transmit disease-causing agents or organisms, like viruses, to humans.

West Nile virus disease and St. Louis encephalitis are examples of mosquito-borne illnesses. Mosquitoes in Florida may also cause dengue fever and malaria. From May to July 2023 alone, the state had seven locally acquired malaria infections.

Such diseases are more prevalent during mosquito season in Florida.

So when exactly is that? And what can you do to avoid these pesky critters?

We’ve answered those questions in this guide, so keep reading.

The Mosquito Season in Florida

In other states, mosquito season officially starts in May or June, but it can be year-round in Florida. This is because mosquito activity is closely dependent on temperatures.

Mosquitoes love warm temperatures and start becoming active at 50° Fahrenheit. Thanks to its tropical climate, Florida’s average monthly temperatures rarely go below that. That’s why mosquitoes can live, survive, and thrive year-round in The Sunshine State.

Tips for Mosquito Control

While not all mosquito species transmit diseases, their bites can still be very itchy. This may force you to keep scratching them and injure yourself.

Don’t let that happen with these DIY pest control tips to avoid mosquitoes and their bites.

Eliminate Standing Water

Water can collect in many places outside your house, such as watering cans, empty pots, and fire pits. The same can happen to kids’ toys (i.e., buckets and inflatable pools), plant saucers, and uneven spots in your garden. Clogged gutters, drains, catch basins, and French ditches can also accumulate water.

The standing water in those items gives mosquitoes an ideal nesting place. So, inspect them regularly, and immediately clean and drain the water they’ve collected.

Keep Your Outdoor Space Clean

Any item you have outside and no longer use but can collect water should go in the bin. These include old tires, pots, pans, broken appliances, drums, bottles, and cans. Mind your locality’s waste disposal policies, though, as you may have to put these items in a recycling bin.

You should also bag organic litter, including fallen leaves and grass clippings, ASAP. If left exposed, they can collect water and provide mosquitoes a home.

Cover Entry and Access Ways

If you don’t have door and window bug screens, consider investing in them. These mesh coverings can help keep insects, including mosquitoes, out of your home. At the same time, they allow you to open your doors and windows for better ventilation.

If you already have bug screens, inspect them regularly for holes. Repair damages you find immediately.

Don’t Let Mosquitoes Ruin Your Day

As mosquito season in Florida can be year-round, you’re at risk of getting bitten by these pests daily. While you may not get ill with every bite, you’ll likely get sick of dealing with them all the time.

So, as early as now, follow our tips on controlling mosquitoes. And as a final reminder, always cover up and use repellant if you’d like to go and enjoy the outdoors.

Do you have unwanted critters at home aside from mosquitoes? Then check out our guide on pest extermination techniques!