Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Me So Much?

Although it may seem like mosquitoes have a personal vendetta against certain people, the truth is that the reasons why mosquitoes like certain people over others has to do with factors beyond your personality.

The exact reasons why some people are bit more by mosquitoes than others is still not fully understood. However, there are certain signs that may indicate whether you are more susceptible to being bit or not. What follows are a few tips that may help you lower your risk of becoming a snack from the mosquitoes in your area.

Where You Live

One aspect that may contribute to the feeling that you are a tempting target for mosquitoes is where you live. If you live in a place near breeding grounds for mosquitoes, then you are more likely to be bit. And because breeding grounds could be as simple as puddles or mudholes, then you are more likely to be a mosquito snack compared to those who live away from such breeding areas.

Physical Activity

The more active you are, the more likely you are to be discovered by mosquitoes. This is because you sweat more which gives off more signals for mosquitoes to find you. Such indications include the following.

Body Odor: The more you sweat, the more likely the scent will attract nearby mosquitoes. In addition, what you eat or the perfume you wear may also get the attention of the mosquitoes.

Breath: Mosquitoes can detect CO2 which is exhaled when you breathe. The more CO2 you give off, the greater the chances that mosquitoes can pick up the scent. Since exercise causes you to breathe more rapidly, you give off more CO2 which in turn brings in the bugs.

Temperature: In addition to CO2, body temperature can also be detected by mosquitoes. The higher your body temperature, the greater the chances of being detected. This means that exercising or wearing dark clothes in the summer heat raises your chances of being bit.

How to Avoid Mosquito Bites?

You could always stay inside with the windows shut, but sooner or later you will have to go outside. What follows are a few things you can do to reduce your chances of mosquitoes detecting your presence.

Clothing: Wearing light colored clothing, particularly fabrics that cover your arms and legs. Light clothing will reduce the amount of skin that the mosquitoes can find.

Insecticide: Using bug spray approved by the EPA that includes DEET will help deter mosquitoes from feasting on you. Other repellents such as lemon eucalyptus or citronella candles also give off a scent that drives mosquitoes away.

Stay Away from Stagnant Water: Mudholes, puddles, and other wet areas are a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Stay away from them or eliminate them from your property if possible.

At Choice Pest Management, we can locate and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds around your home. This will reduce the chances of you being bit this summer and increase your enjoyment of being outdoors. Call Choice Pest Management today and find out more about the pest control services we offer.