It's That Time of Year Again !!!!!!

'Tho small in size, mosquitoes have been around for millions of years. They use chemical, visual and heat sensors to locate their prey. Chemical sensors detect carbon dioxide and lactic acid from 100 feet away. and chemicals in sweat can also trigger their sensors. Their visual sensors aren't very keen, but they can see you moving if you're wearing clothes that contrast with the background. They use their heat sensors to detect warm-blooded mammals and birds in their vicinity.

Mosquitoes go through 4 stages in their life cycle: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The first 3 stages are aquatic and last 5-14 days. All mosquitoes must have water in which to complete their life cycle.

Visible, irritating bites are due to the immune response from the binding of antibodies to antigens in the mosquito's saliva. Anti-itch medicines are usually orally or topically applied. Many home remedies/recipes exist including vinegar and toothpaste. Also rubbing clear nail polish or deodorant on the bite will stop the itching most of the time.

Top Mosquito Facts :

Many diseases are caused by mosquito bites: malaria, yellow fever, encephalitis and dengue fever

Only female mosquitoes bite

Treat mosquito bite by washing with soap and water

3 basic things to do to repel mosquitoes: wear clothing that covers most of the body; use a mosquito repellant and eliminate sources of standing water

For more information on mosquitoes contact American Mosquito Control Association .