As you may (or may not) have noticed, the mosquito population is still very much active in some locations. This past fall has been the warmest on-record, and 2026 as a whole could set records for overall high temperatures by the time the year ends.
So, what does this mean for your backyard pest population? At least in the case of mosquitoes, it means you'll be exposed well into the autumn months in many locales. Even in my neck of the woods in New England, I've experienced plenty of 60-degree days in recent weeks, along with the telltale high-pitched buzzing of mosquitoes whenever I go outside.
If you've noticed that the weather simply isn't knocking down your backyard pest population, we've got some expert tips and pest control tools for you.
Are mosquitoes still around in the fall?
Aside from writing about pest control strategies for mice, bugs and similarly-small home nuisances, many of us are also homeowners. This means that we've also gone through the process of shopping around for pest control solutions, including calling pros and considering DIY approaches. Luckily, this particular problem has some relatively easy and affordable solutions.
In short, local mosquito populations are still active due to regular temperatures above 50 degrees, coupled with higher humidity. Despite the shorter cold snaps we've already gotten this fall, these have been enough to sustain a smaller breeding population.
We talked to Dr. Ngan Nguyen Rawlings, Entomologist and Scientist at ScottsMiracle-Gro, for her thoughts on this often-unexpected issue. She raised a couple of issues which could be affecting you this fall, if you've been dealing with increased mosquito presence in your yard.
"Generally, temperatures must stay at or above 50°F (10°C) for mosquitoes to stay active," she says. "Besides climate, there are two other factors that can make your yard attractive to mosquitoes: yard debris and standing water."
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So, seasonal cleanouts each fall can help you to stay ahead of the game. "Fallen leaves and organic debris create damp, shaded areas that are perfect environments for mosquitoes," says Rawlings. "Standing water also provides an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, allowing their populations to grow."
Products you need to get rid of mosquitoes
In short, investing in a good leaf blower for your home is always worthwhile, especially if you have a large yard to maintain. Additionally, the following Ortho Home sprays can help control existing populations, or even control future infestations. These come recommended by Rawlings, and have a proven track record in yards everywhere.
Ortho Home Defense
Get rid of any residual mosquito population near your home this fall with this Ortho Home easy-to-use spray.
Shop this quality spray now.
Ortho Home Defense Mosquito Kill & Prevent
Control up to 4,300 square feet of outdoor space when you set this near your home. Its design mimics mosquitoes' preferred breeding conditions to eliminate larvae before they can fully mature.
Control mosquito populations at the source with this.
Steps you can take to prevent mosquitoes
These action items work well for nearly any mosquito control checklist according to Rawlings, including eliminating standing water, where their populations tend to propagate. You should monitor the following areas for this:
- Flowerpots, buckets and children's toys that can collect water: Frequently empty and clean, or overturn when not in use
- Gutters: Clean and install gutter guards to prevent puddling
- Low spots in your yard: Consider a drainage pump to clear out any puddles if water doesn't disperse into the ground after storms
- Bird baths: Empty and refresh these regularly
Repel mosquitoes without messy sprays.
Why you should tackle your mosquito problem today
Mosquito populations pose health risks wherever they're present. Along with the itchy bites and annoying high-pitched sounds invading your ear canals, they consistently spread diseases, including West Nile Virus, dengue fever and more. The above remedies go much further than a can of high-quality bug spray ever will. We think they're worth considering, even as temperatures continue to fall.
When it's time to call in a pest control pro
Call Orkin today
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Sometimes, you need more help than a spray or candle can give. That's when you know it's time to call in a pro.
Mosquito control plans are often separate from general pest control treatments, but the targeted approach is what keeps them away for good. If you're sick of swatting mosquitoes away, call a pest control expert today.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mosquitoes are still biting: Experts explain why
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