Mosquitoes
Culicidae (various species)
insectsHow to Identify
Mosquitoes are small, slender flies measuring 1/4 to 3/8 inch long with long legs, a pair of scaled wings, and a distinctive elongated proboscis used for feeding. In coastal South Carolina, the most common species are the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) — identified by black-and-white striped legs and body — and various Culex species that are plain brown. The salt marsh mosquito (Aedes sollicitans) is also prevalent near the coast. Female mosquitoes are the biters, requiring blood protein for egg development.
Signs of Infestation
Persistent mosquito bites, especially during dawn and dusk hours, are the primary sign of a localized population. Check your property for standing water — mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of stagnant water. Look for larvae (tiny wriggling organisms) in birdbaths, clogged gutters, flower pot saucers, and any container holding water for more than a few days. Asian tiger mosquitoes also bite aggressively during daylight hours.
Health Risks
Mosquitoes are a significant health concern in SC due to their ability to transmit diseases. They can transmit West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and La Crosse encephalitis. Heartworm disease, a serious and potentially fatal condition for dogs and cats, is also spread by mosquitoes. Bites cause itchy welts and pose a risk of secondary infection from scratching.
Our Treatment Method
MBPC's mosquito control program in Myrtle Beach targets both adult mosquitoes and larval breeding sites. We use barrier treatments on vegetation, shaded areas, and building perimeters where mosquitoes rest. We identify and treat standing water sources with larvicides to prevent mosquito development. Our monthly service from April to October provides season-long protection against mosquitoes on the Grand Strand.
Prevention Tips
To prevent mosquito breeding on your Myrtle Beach property, eliminate all standing water weekly. Empty containers like saucers, buckets, and toys that collect rainwater. Clean gutters regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent water from pooling. Change birdbath water every 2-3 days. Ensure that all window and door screens are intact to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Habitat
Mosquitoes need standing water to reproduce, laying eggs on or near water where larvae develop. Adults seek shelter in shady, humid areas like dense vegetation, under palmetto trees, and around homes. The Grand Strand's subtropical climate, salt marshes, tidal creeks, and sandy soils provide ideal mosquito breeding habitat from spring through fall, resulting in a longer mosquito season than inland areas of SC.
Peak activity: Spring-Fall
Identification Photos
Frequently Asked Questions About Mosquitoes
The Grand Strand's salt marshes, tidal creeks, warm subtropical temperatures, and high humidity create ideal mosquito habitat for an extended season. Coastal properties near standing water and marsh edges are especially vulnerable. The Asian tiger mosquito and salt marsh mosquito are well-established in the Myrtle Beach region and bite aggressively during daylight hours, unlike traditional dusk-and-dawn species.
Bug zappers primarily kill beneficial insects and are not effective against mosquitoes. CO2-based traps can capture mosquitoes but typically only reduce numbers in a small area. Professional barrier treatments from MBPC, targeting resting sites and breeding areas, are far more effective at reducing the overall mosquito population on your property.
Yes, clogged gutters are one of the most common mosquito breeding sites on residential properties in Myrtle Beach. Even a small section of gutter holding stagnant water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes per week. Regular gutter cleaning and ensuring proper drainage is one of the most impactful steps homeowners in SC can take.
Yes. Mosquitoes transmit heartworm disease to dogs and cats in Myrtle Beach, which can be fatal if untreated. Even indoor pets are at risk since mosquitoes can enter through open doors and torn screens. Year-round heartworm preventive medication from your veterinarian, combined with professional mosquito reduction services from MBPC, provides the best protection.
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