Why do mosquitoes gather round my pond

A.� Morene is having problems keeping mosquitoes away from the garden pond, why Because mosquitoes need water to breed: the female mosquito lays her eggs in the water. Mosquitos especially like still and stagnant water. They only need as little as a few centimetres of water to breed in and will even lay eggs in birdbaths, saucers and other small containers of water.

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Q.� How can Morene keep the mosquitoes away

A.� Keeping fish and encouraging frogs in your garden pond provides good predators that will eat the eggs and, therefore, deter the mosquitoes.

Or try the bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis, which is available to put in water to control larval development without harming anything else. This bacterial organism is specific for controlling mosquitoes and is safe for the environment. Oil of citronella is another deterrent, usually administered via burning candles, however, it only works in the immediate area of the candle and only if there is no wind.

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Q.� How can I keep mosquitoes away from me

A.� As mosquitoes are usually most active during mornings and evenings, avoiding the heat of the day, you could keep out of your garden at these times. Also don't wear strong perfume, which attracts the insects and stick to long clothing to protect your skin from being bitten.

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The good news is that mosquitoes don't last long: In warm weather a mosquito can go through its whole life cycle from egg to adult in�seven days.

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Q.� Do all mosquitoes suck blood

A.� No, not all species bite humans and of the ones that do, only the female does, the male is content with nectar and sap.

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Q.� Why do mosquitoes always bite me while some people have no problem

A.� The body chemicals of some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others. Current research is trying to tap the natural body chemicals that some people seem to have to produce a mosquito repellent.

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Q.� Why does the bite itch

A.� Because when the female mosquito bites she injects some saliva into the bite. The saliva contains chemicals that keep the blood flowing through her needle like mouthparts, similar to anti clotting agents used in medicine. Unfortunately for some the body reacts to this chemical resulting in an itchy bump.

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Having problems with an insect Click here to post a question to get a solution.

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by Lisa Cardy