Recent rainfall throughout much of California has created puddles and stagnant water. With the temperature warming up in many parts of the state, this combination can create the perfect situation for mosquitoes to breed. We encourage you to “drain after the rain” to reduce mosquito-breeding sites.
After rainfall, drain standing water from common backyard sources such as buckets, flowerpots, bird baths, old tires and other small containers. Think an item is too small for mosquitoes to breed in? Think again—newer, invasive mosquito species in California need only a bottle cap worth of water to develop in. Clean all gutters and downspouts as leaves, twigs, seeds, and other organic matter can block water flow. Your efforts to eliminate sources of standing water now will mean less mosquitoes later in the season!
Mosquitoes are a public health threat because they are capable of transmitting debilitating diseases such as West Nile Virus, Zika, dengue and chikungunya. Protect yourself from mosquitoes by wearing an effective repellent and staying indoors when they are most active.
To learn more about mosquitoes and their management, visit these resources:
- Pest Notes: Mosquitoes fact sheet
- Mosquitoes and Ticks of Public Health Concern (webinar)
- Mosquito Management for Ponds, Fountains, and Water Gardens
- Invasive Pest Spotlight: Aedes Mosquitoes
- Invasive Pest Spotlight: West Nile Virus
Contact your local mosquito and vector control program to inquire about their services and how you can help reduce mosquito populations in your area.
