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May 03, 2025
While Maine is somewhat famous (or maybe infamous) for its “black fly season,” mosquitoes are no slouches when it comes to crashing outdoor plans. As the temperatures climb in spring, mosquito activity ramps up fast, and these pests can stick around all summer and into fall.
A bite from a mosquito might just mean a few itchy days, but in some cases, it can lead to more serious problems. From West Nile virus to Eastern equine encephalitis, mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance. That’s why now’s the time to get ahead of them.
Why Mosquito Activity Spikes in Spring
Mosquitoes are cold-blooded insects, which means their activity is tied directly to the temperature. When it’s cold, they slow down or die off. But once daytime temps consistently reach the 50s, dormant eggs from last fall start hatching, and adult mosquitoes come out of hiding.
That’s when the buzzing begins—and the bites aren’t far behind.
What Makes Your Yard a Mosquito Magnet?
You don’t need a swamp out back for mosquitoes to move in. Many Maine homeowners unintentionally create perfect breeding or hiding spots. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Standing water: Mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as a bottle cap’s worth of water. Look for pooling water in buckets, toys, tarps, birdbaths, and plant saucers.
- Clogged gutters: If your gutters are packed with leaves or debris, they may be holding water—ideal mosquito habitat.
- Leaky outdoor faucets or hoses: Even a slow drip can create puddles where mosquitoes breed.
- Dense shade and damp vegetation: Mosquitoes like to hide in cool, humid areas during the day, especially under shrubs, low-hanging branches, and decks.
- Still air: A lack of breeze gives mosquitoes free range. If your yard is sheltered from the wind, it may see more activity.
Simple Ways to Prepare for Mosquito Season
You don’t have to wait for bites to take action. Here are a few ways to reduce mosquito activity around your home:
- Dump and drain anything that collects rainwater—from small containers to canoes.
- Clean your gutters to prevent stagnant water buildup.
- Fix leaks in hoses and spigots to avoid puddles.
- Trim vegetation and keep your lawn mowed to reduce shade and moisture.
- Use insect repellent with DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus. If you’d prefer to avoid applying it directly to your skin, spray it on clothing.
These steps won’t completely stop mosquitoes, but they will make your yard far less inviting.
For Lasting Relief, Call in the Pros
DIY prevention is helpful, but mosquitoes are stubborn. If you’re tired of retreating indoors or covering yourself in repellent every time you step outside, it’s time for professional help.
Pine State Pest Solutions offers proven mosquito control for homes across Maine. Our treatments target breeding areas and resting spots to dramatically reduce mosquito populations, without overusing harsh chemicals. It’s effective and tailored to our local climate and pest pressures.
You’ll still see the occasional mosquito, but with routine service, you’ll see a lot less of them.
Ready to Take Back Your Backyard?
Don’t let mosquitoes turn your outdoor season into a scratchy, swatting mess. Pine State Pest Solutions is here to help you enjoy your property again—with fewer bites and more peace of mind.
Contact us today to schedule mosquito control in Cape Elizabeth, Wales, Topsham, Augusta, and throughout our multi-county service area. Let’s get ahead of the buzz and the mosquito bites.
This blog was originally published on May 15, 2018; it has been updated to include the most up-to-date information.
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