We all know that summer means more than just nice weather and barbecues for Manchester residents. Hordes of mosquitoes bombard the city due to the perfect storm created by its unique geographic location and climate conditions, and transform peaceful evening get-togethers into swatting competitions.
Not only are these annoying creatures, but mosquitoes also carry considerable health risks to your family. There are several steps homeowners can take to prevent infestations. Still, sometimes, professional pest control help is necessary to ensure that your family can continue to enjoy all the comforts and protection that your home can offer.
How Manchester’s Summer Climate Creates Ideal Mosquito Breeding Grounds
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Humidity Levels That Mosquitoes Love
Humidity levels in Manchester are commonly 70-80% during summer, guaranteeing mosquitoes the wet air they need to live and breed. The high humidity lets the mosquito eggs hatch more quickly and keeps the adult mosquitoes out and about longer during the day.
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Temperature Sweet Spot for Reproduction
Summer temperatures in Manchester are usually between 75 ° F and 85° F, the sweet spot for breeding temperature for most species of mosquito. In this range, mosquito larvae can develop in as little as 7-10 days, compared to the typical two weeks it takes to develop fully.
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Abundant Water Sources
The many breeding sites around Manchester include ponds and the Merrimack River. During the hot, humid months of summer, even the most minor amounts of water in gutters, flower pots, and storm drains become ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes.
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Evening Activity Patterns
Peak hours of mosquito activity coincide with long summer evenings in Manchester. Mosquitoes are most aggressive in their attempt to find a blood meal when temperatures drop after the afternoon heat, but humidity holds fast.
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Stagnant Water After Summer Storms
July alone brings nearly 3.5 inches of rain to New Hampshire, and Manchester’s urban environment easily creates puddles and standing water that can last days, providing mosquitoes with ideal breeding sites.
Why Mosquitoes Pose More Than Just an Itchy Nuisance
Mosquito bites are irritating, creating little red, itchy welts, but there are real health implications for Manchester families. However, those pesky little mosquitoes can spread West Nile Virus, which has been identified in the mosquito population here in New Hampshire in previous years.
Another grave threat that health officials keep an eye out for during the summer is Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), albeit less frequently. Mosquito-borne diseases and infections are at greater risk for children and older family members, as they do not have strong immunity.
Steps Manchester Families Can Take to Reduce Mosquito Activity
- Empty all flower pots, bird baths, gutters, and any container that catches rainwater after the summer storms that Manchester is famed for
- Mow the grass, keep it short, trim bushes where mosquitoes rest in hot daytime hours
- Fit or mend your window screens to ensure mosquitoes do not enter your home, which is essential as Manchester tends to be hot and humid in the evenings, and so windows will be open, allowing air to circulate
- Grow insect-repelling plant life such as Lavender, Marigolds, and Citronella near outdoor seating locations
- Avoid scheduling outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, peak mosquito hours, and schedule them instead during midday hours of low mosquito activity
- Use EPA-registered repellents with DEET or picaridin when outdoors, particularly around Manchester’s numerous parks and recreational areas
Professional Protection: When It Becomes Necessary
Professionally trained pest control teams know the facts about Manchester mosquitoes, such as how the Merrimack River area produces high levels of mosquitoes, which seasons they are active, and how Manchester’s urban heat island effects extend the mosquito season. Local experts such as Anchor Pest Services understand which mosquito types live in your neighborhood and where they like to breed across the city. Using targeted treatments against adult mosquitoes and larvae, they provide complete protection to withstand the difficult summer months Manchester offers.
