Tiger Mosquito
The tiger mosquito is a mosquito of Asian origin that in recent years has spread throughout Europe and America. Its control is important, not only because of the annoying bites but because it is capable of transmitting some viral diseases. The tiger mosquito should not be confused with other species such as the common mosquito, with which it lives, which is more nocturnal and its biological cycle is related to large areas of stagnant water.
It is a small mosquito, measuring between 2 and 10 millimetres, very dark in colour, almost black, with silvery white bands on the body and legs. It is characterized because the central white line on the thorax extends over the head.
The larvae develop in water that is in small containers, in or around homes. This leaves them outside the scope of treatments in public places carried out by the City Council.
Therefore, in controlling this mosquito a very important part of the work must be done by the citizens themselves. It is active especially during the day, mainly outside the houses. They fly only up to a few meters from the breeding site.
Females cause discomfort due to the high number of very reactive bites that usually occur on the legs and areas close to the ground, which they make to obtain food for laying their eggs.
The Tiger Mosquito reproduces by laying its eggs in small containers with stagnant water, between 100 and 200 eggs each week, which are usually on private property and the City Council cannot access to carry out treatments.
What to do
- Everyone must look for containers, jars, abandoned objects, drains, small cisterns, tarps, plates, pots, ashtrays, etc., likely to accumulate small amounts of water, outside his/her home, mainly on balconies, courtyards and gardens.
- Once found, it is necessary to empty the stored water, whether it appears to contain larvae or not. Empty them into the ground or grass: the larvae will quickly die.
- Afterwards, we must ensure that they cannot flood again. Almost always, it is enough to turn the containers upside down. In some cases, they can be punctured. If they are not essential, it is a good idea to throw them away or move them indoors.
- Just once we do this is NOT enough. You cannot let your guard down: the mosquito is always waiting for the slightest opportunity. It is a good idea to check our home periodically and make the neighbours do it in theirs.
- Maintain adequate chlorine levels in fountains, swimming pools and ponds throughout the year so that it does not breed there.
- Protect wells and cisterns with mosquito nets so that they do not lay their eggs.
- Keep an eye on drip irrigation, which can leave small stagnations of water in pots, plates or grass. It is necessary to remove excess water from watering the plants.
- Renew the water in our animals' drinkers every 2 or 3 days.
- Pour water into the drains at least once a week to prevent stagnation.
- Fill cavities in tree trunks with plaster or sand.
