The best way is to remove the standing water itself, by emptying containers, clearing clogged gutters, and draining puddles, because a mosquito cannot breed where there is no water to lay eggs in. For water that has to stay, such as a pond or rain barrel, a Bti larvicide stops the larvae before they become biting adults.

Why does standing water lead to more mosquitoes?

Because mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water, and the larvae live and feed in it until they mature. Any container, pool, or puddle that holds water long enough can become a breeding site, which is why finding standing water around the home matters.

Why is removing standing water the first step?

Because it is an extremely effective and permanent way to reduce mosquitoes without insecticides. This approach, called source reduction, includes emptying buckets and unused plastic pools, removing old tires, clearing clogged gutters, fixing leaky faucets, and filling or draining puddles and hollow tree stumps.

How is water that cannot be emptied protected?

With a larvicide that targets the larvae in the water. Once a month, a fresh dunk from a pack of Mosquito Dunks is set in a pond, rain barrel, or animal trough, where it treats up to 100 square feet of surface and slowly releases Bti, a bacterium that kills mosquito larvae as they feed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should birdbath water be changed?

At most every 4 days, the water does not become a breeding site.

Can a trap catch mosquitoes looking for a place to breed?

Yes. The Trap N Kill AGO Mosquito Trap, placed on the ground near vegetation, imitates a breeding spot with water and hay, and mosquitoes that enter are held by a screen and sticky board.

Does a larvicide work once larvae become pupae?

No. Bti loses its effect at the pupal stage, so treatment works best while larvae are still feeding.

Are fish an option for a pond?

With caution. Some fish eat mosquito larvae, but releasing species such as mosquitofish into natural waters has caused serious harm to ecosystems.