The mild winter in New York this year is going to affect the tick and mosquito population this spring and summer. It seems that there may be a connection between mild winters and a higher population of these blood-sucking insects, which also means a higher risk of transmittance of serious diseases. These insects will be arriving earlier, which means they will have longer to reproduce and hatch more offspring. The increased tick population, however, will also depend on the availability of hosts for them to feed on in order to reproduce. A factor to consider that will affect the mosquito population is the amount of rain in the spring (which remains to be seen), because mosquitoes will typically lay their eggs in standing water. The more rain we receive in the spring, the higher the mosquito population. In either case, the tick and mosquito population is expected to be on the rise this year, as well as reported illnesses connected to them.

Ticks are very dangerous, especially in the Northeast, as they can infect people and pets with serious diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. They will attach to their host and embed themselves into skin. Since you may never feel them on you, it is important to check for ticks daily, especially if you have pets or if you spend time outdoors. If you find one that is embedded and you think it’s been there for more than 48 hours, you will need to seek medical attention.

Mosquitoes are also very dangerous as they can transmit many diseases like West Nile virus, chikungunya, malaria, and dengue fever, even here in the United States. While Zika virus was originally a concern for other nations, it has recently been spreading in mosquito populations here in the U.S. Mosquitoes can also be carriers of heartworm, a disease that can infect pets making them very sick if left untreated. Mosquitoes are also a nuisance as they buzz around people incessantly and can cause a sting, followed by a terribly annoying itch.

It’s never too late to start thinking about taking control of the tick and mosquito population on your property. Using a professional pest control provider will help to ensure the safety of your family and your pets while they enjoy the outdoors on your property. For peace of mind in the New York area, you can rely on Thomas Pest Services. We have been a trusted family owned and operated business since 1949 and have the tools and innovative technologies to help control tick and mosquito populations on your New York property.