Mosquito repellent to control large population of mosquitoes are often produced in granules, making it easier for people to spread them around the place. Mosquito granules are applied to the lawn, ground or anywhere else outdoors and creates a protective barrier around the area.
Biological control of mosquitoes use natural enemies to manage large populations. There are several types of biological control including the direct introduction of parasites, pathogens and predators to target mosquitoes.
Natural granules
Those granules usually have a pleasant aroma, contain all natural ingredients and are not harmful to people, pets or plants. Repelling effect of such mosquito granules lasts for one to several weeks. Bonide Mosquito Beater Natural Granules is one of the best sellers on Amazon.According to the producer, it effectively repels for up to 3 weeks. Because it contains essential oils such as geranium oil, cedar oil, lemon grass oil, garlic and citronella oil, it is nontoxic, biodegradable and pleasantly scented. The ingredients in the container might cover 4000 sq. ft.
Larvicides
Another type of yard mosquito repellent produced in granules is mosquito larvicide. It affects mosquito larvae and later prevents the emergence of adult mosquitoes. Larvicides used in granules mimic the action of insect growth regulation hormone. They artificially stunt the insects’ development, making it impossible for mosquitoes to mature to the adult stages, and thus preventing them from reproducing. Two of the common larvicide used against mosquitoes are Methoprene and (S)-Methoprene, both also called Insect Growth Regulators. Methoprene chemical formula is C19H34O3. Mosquito granules such as Altosid Pro-G Mosquito Larvicide (2.5 lb) are simply sprinkled or broadcast in areas where mosquitoes may breed – bird baths, water gardens or other water holding receptacles and are active around 21 days.
Dunks
Third type of yard mosquito granules is simply another form of mosquito dunks. It contains Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis as an active agent that simply kills mosquito larvae. Such mosquito granules dissolve faster than dunks and thus have a quicker impact on mosquito population around the area. One example of product with pretty good reviews is Mosquito Bits by Summit (60-Ounce). They claim that the mosquito control will kill the mosquito larvae within 24 hours before mosquitoes are old enough to bite. The dunks will not kill adult insects. The larvae eat the microscopic bacteria in the dunks and then the larvae explode. Hence, their effectiveness is only with the larvae, preventing them from becoming adult insects. The active ingredient is Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies Israelensis the bacteria is registered with EPA. There are no other toxins in the product besides the bacteria Bti. All other ingredients are inert or none active so safe for pets, kids, etc. For bigger quantities (20-Pound) click this link.
What’s the best mosquito repellent for dogs and cats? Although dogs & cats like humans can get bites by mosquitoes, they won’t get the same disease as humans and cases of Dengue Fever, West Nile, etc. are not frequently reported in animals. In some cases bites can be very dangerous for dogs (e.g. cause lung disease). Cats may develop allergies to mosquito bites which will translate into fevers, sores, swollen lymph nodes, heartworms, etc. So in other words, bites can kill your cat ! With these alarming facts, you are likely wondering whether the DEET spray you have at home can be the solution for treating you pet. First, it’s very important to have in mind that DEET is a very effective repellent for human but should never be used to dogs because if they ingest it at high doses it can be very toxic (e.g. seizures, vomiting) and they also lick their fur. There are many products specially developped for pets, either synthetic or natural. It’s also recommended to treat your pets with a product against heartworm. Be careful when purchasing essential oils because many of these ingredients are ineffective insect repellents and garlic is toxic to pets. Citronella oils and Sandalwood oils are among the best mosquito repellent for dogs and cats as they keep mosquitoes off pets but they should be burnt in the yard to protect the entire yard. Also an alternative way would be to use a propane mosquito trap to prevent mosquito population growth.
Epi-Pet’s 16oz Lavender Scented Skin Treatment Spray is a topical treatment for pets to repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. It also treats hot spots, rashes and other mild skin problems. This spray includes the following ingredients: Cedar, peppermint and spearmint oils which are common insect repellents; Tea tree and peppermint oils to provide relief from itching; Galactoarabinan, a natural extract keeping skin properly hydrated; Lavender scent to provide aromatherapy. Epi-Pet’s simple three step (Brush+Spray+Brush) treatment application is quick and easy, taking only minutes to perform. 2-4 applications per day are recommended until the condition is controlled. Here is a customer’s comment that supports the vendor’s claims: “It also works good to repel mosquitoes from getting on her too. I would definitely recommend this to anyone.”
Wondercide natural flea, tick & mosquito control kills the entire flea lifecycle. As an alternative to monthly chemical spot drop treatments like drops and pills, Pets + Home (formerly Evolv) is the natural flea and tick treatment that is both a repellent and kills on contact with no toxic effects to pets or children. It can be used on pets, bedding, carpeting, upholstery and other surfaces. For cats, there is a 4oz Pets + Home to ensure correct application. This product contains natural, locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients and innovative and involves low-impact manufacturing processes. The active ingredients of this mosquito repellent for dogs and cats are: organic cedar (10%) and grade lemongrass (0.1%) oils.
Features:
Safe and natural alternative to chemical pesticides
Kills and repels fleas, ticks and mosquitoes
Leaves coat shiny and brilliant
Safe around children and for puppies, kittens
Home is sold in 4oz, 16oz, 32oz (treats 400 sq ft), and 1 Gallon sizes (treats 1500 sq ft).
This topical flea treatment lets you stop fleas before they become a problem. Used just once a month, it stops fleas from biting in less than five minutes, killing 98 to 100 percent of the fleas on dogs within 12 hours, and keeps working for a month. It also repels and kills ticks before they can attach and mosquitoes before they can bite. Used year-round, it prevents fleas from over-wintering in your home to feast on your dog next season. Gentle enough for puppies as young as seven weeks and older, the flea control remains effective even after bathing, water immersion, or exposure to sunlight, without the need for re-application. The active ingredients are: lmidacloprid 8.8%, Permethrin 44%, Pyrlproxyfen 0.44%. See this page for more informations about permethrin. It is very important to note that permethrin is very toxic to cats because they metabolize this compound differently from humans and dogs. The package may vary (e.g. six pre-measured doses for dogs weighing 55+ pounds in easy-to-use applicator tubes). For safety, keep out of the reach of children.
Features:
Kills adult fleas, eggs and larvae
Effective against mosquitoes up to 4 weeks
Remains effective even after swimming or shampooing
One treatment prevents further flea infestation for at least four weeks
In contrast to other mosquito diseases, Zika is unlikely to spread much in the United States, although occasional outbreaks are possible as travelers bring the virus back and get bitten by mosquitoes. The risk is mostly confined to the south because the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that spread Zika don’t live in colder climates. The risk might only be for women who are currently pregnant because 80% of people infected by Zika don’t even feel sick at all. But there are some other mosquito-borne illnesses that are worth watching out for. These mosquito diseases are endemic in the US meaning they are here year-round. Below is the description of few of them against which adequate repellent treatment is crucial.
West Nile virus
West Nile was only introduced into the United States in 1999, but it quickly spread to all 48 continental states as well as Canada and Mexico. Since then, it’s infected hundreds of thousands of people, causing severe illness in about 40,000 and killing more than 1,600. More than 2,000 cases were reported last year alone, more than 1,300 of them serious infections that caused meningitis or encephalitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. California had a bad year with more than 700 cases and 45 deaths in 2015. West Nile spreads badly because it is carried by several different species of mosquito that are common across the U.S., and because it also infects birds, so they act as what’s called a reservoir for the virus. They can carry West Nile to new places and help keep it circulating. That’s not known to happen with Zika.
Eastern equine encephalitis virus
Like Zika, the eastern equine encephalitis virus usually does not cause symptoms. An average of eight cases a year are reported in the U.S., according to CDC. Most are in Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. It kills about a third of patients who develop serious symptoms and can cause severe brain damage in those who survive. Maine health officials reported a death from the encephalitis virus in November and two people in New York died from the virus last year. Encephalitis virus lives in birds but a number of species of mosquito that bite both birds and people can spread it, including Aedes, Coquillettidia, and Culex mosquitoes.
La Crosse encephalitis
La Crosse encephalitis affects 80 to 100 people a year, according to CDC. It’s found mostly in the upper midwest — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, as well as the mid-Atlantic and southeast. It’s carried by the the treehole mosquito, or Aedes triseriatus. Most people don’t know they have it but it can cause severe symptoms, mostly in children. Fewer than 1 percent of people who develop serious symptom die.
St Louis Encephalitis
This one’s rare but people in the southeast can catch it year-round. In some years, like 2013, just a single case was reported. In 2004, 15 cases were reported. But in 1975 there was a big epidemic of severe disease that affected 2,000 people in the midwest.
Malaria
This one is not a virus but a parasite called Plasmodium. It’s used to be common in the U.S. In fact, it’s one of the reasons the CDC even exists. Widespread spraying in the 1940s killed most of the mosquitoes that carry the malaria parasite, and malaria was eradicated from the U.S. in 1951. Unlike the other mosquito diseases listed here, malaria is not endemic in the U.S. but it’s so common that 1,500 cases of malaria are diagnosed each year. Most are in travelers but they have sparked a few local outbreaks.
Other Mosquito Diseases which are not currently in the US
Dengue fever
One of the most common mosquito diseases caused by one of four viruses common to tropical and subtropical climates. The disease is spread by Aedes mosquitoes in much the same way as West Nile and other encephalitic viruses. A mosquito is able to transmit dengue about a week after biting an infected person. As the dengue virus multiplies and damages cells, an infected person begins to show symptoms similar to other infections: High fever, headaches, back and joint pain, rashes and eye pain. If the fever lasts up to a week and is followed by bruising and bleeding, those are symptoms of dengue hemorrhagic fever. The fatality rate for hemorrhagic fever is about 5 percent, according to the CDC. The World Health Organization estimates that 500,000 people are hospitalized with dengue every year. More than 1.5 million cases of dengue were reported in Brazil in 2015. It causes occasional cases in warmer U.S. states, most recently Hawaii. Hemorrhagic fever cases are estimated in the hundreds of thousands. It is more common to Southeast Asia, where children are especially susceptible. Like most viruses, there is no specific treatment. Doctors recommend acetaminophen, plenty of fluids and rest for dengue and hospitalization for hemorrhagic fever.
Yellow fever
A flavivirus orginally common to primates in Africa and South America. Like dengue, it is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito as well as the famous Zika mosquito. The virus incubates in the body for three to six days before an infected person begins to show the common infection symptoms of fever, chills, headache and nausea. There may be a short remission before the disease returns with much more serious symptoms such as nosebleeds, bloody vomit and abdominal pain. Fatality rates range from 15 to 50 percent. While there is no treatment for yellow fever, it is possible to be vaccinated against infection for those living in or traveling to climates where the disease is prevalent.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya fever is caused by a virus that is spread to people through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Like Dengue, it is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti (the yellow fever and Zika mosquito) and Aedes albopictus (the Asian tiger mosquito). The incubation period is usually 3-7 days and symptoms can include sudden fever, joint pain with or without swelling, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, lower back pain and a rash. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Chikungunya. Management of the disease includes rest, fluids and medications to relieve the symptoms of fever and pain, such as ibuprofen, naproxen and paracetamol.
What Are The Best Mosquito Treatments Available ?
There are currently vaccines for the Yellow Fever and Dengue and one will be available in a couple of years against Malaria. Otherwise, the best way to prevent the Mosquito diseases is to use repellent spray, bed nets or mosquito traps. Clicke on our Reviews to figure out what are the Best Mosquito Repellents, Best Mosquito Traps or Best Mosquito Nets.
When accommodations are not adequately screened or air conditioned, consider sleeping with a mosquito net over your bed. Bed nets are essential in providing protection and reducing discomfort caused by biting insects. Mosquito netting has fine holes that are big enough to allow breezes to easily pass through, but small enough to keep mosquitoes and other biting insects out.If bed nets do not reach the floor, they should be tucked under mattresses. Bed nets are most effective when they are treated with a pyrethroid insecticide. Pretreated, long-lasting bed nets can be purchased before traveling, or nets can be treated after purchase. Effective, treated nets may also be available in destination countries. Nets treated with a pyrethroid insecticide will be effective for several months if they are not washed. Long-lasting pretreated nets may be effective for much longer.
The OctoRose mosquito net bed canopy provides essential protection against mosquitoes as well as the West Nile Virus. It hangs from a single point, has 23″ diameter top pop out spreader ring, is 98″ tall, has a 472″ circumference at the bottom, and is without side openings. This mosquito net neatly tucks under a mattress or sleeping mat to insure a good insect barrier. It covers the California king size bed and any large beds. It is perfect for those sleeping in mosquito hostile areas. The mosquito bed net is made with nylon and provides stylish draping. Packaged in a clear carry bag, the package size is 13x12x3 inch. It’s available in many colours.
Features:
Romantic accent for bedroom, or back yard or , or party enents
Style: round hoop canopy net in one opening.
Size: 23″ diameter on top, 98″ high, 472″ around the bottom can fit all size bed
Suspends from ceiling on loop. 1 piece of hardware hook included.
EVEN Naturals Mosquito Nets allow you to get a good night’s rest – insect free. Whether you are using the nets indoors or out, rest assured that the handcrafted, durable fabric will keep even the smallest bugs away giving you a more peaceful sleep. The multifilament polyester fabric is REACH compliant, and not treated with DEET or any other toxic chemicals making it 100% eco-friendly. Each net is handcrafted and reinforced on the areas that typically receive the most wear making it long lasting and more durable than any other net on the market. EVEN Naturals® Mosquito Nets are the ideal size for covering hammocks, cribs, toddler beds, all the way up to a king size bed. Whether you are camping, looking for a protective layer for your children, or a way to add a touch of romance to the bedroom, EVEN Naturals® has you covered. They include a free carrying pouch for easy and convenient storage of your net, a hanging kit complete with a rope and wall mounts, and a free eBook loaded with tips and tricks for using your net most effectively.
Features:
Allowing freedom from harsh chemicals, while providing proper air circulation and keeping out the tiniest of bugs.
DURABLE NETTING, TINIEST HOLES (225 holes/inch2).
Handcrafted from strong 100% multi-filament polyester REACH compliant materials, making them 100% eco-friendly.
Bigger than any other available (H97″ x Ø33 feet), and features an opening for easy entrance.
Lightweight and machine washable, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Large White 4-Post Bed Netting Condition: Brand New Color: White Features: 78″(W) x 93″(L) x 96″(H) Four corners with top-loops to hang from a ceiling or tie around bed posts Ideally fits full to king size bed Can also be used to surround a sitting area or outdoor area Four Side openings 100% polyester fabric Hardware Included: Anchors x 4, screw hooks x 4
Features:
Large White 4-Post Bed Netting
Condition: Brand New Color: White
Features: 78inch(W) x 93inch(L) x 96inch(H) Four corners with top-loops to hang from a ceiling or tie around bed posts.
Ideally fits full to king size bed Can also be used to surround a sitting area or outdoor area Four Side openings
100% polyester fabric Hardware Included: Anchors x 4, screw hooks x 4. Instruction is not included
This is a four corner Mosquito Net,which Is Ideal For Keeping Bugs/Mosquitoes/Insects Aways. It Can Be Used Outdoors As A Dramatic Way To Protect From Flying Insects Too. The Floor Protect You From Biting By Mosquitoes And Files Protect Eyes From Offending By Dazzling Light Prevent You From Dust Ideal FOR Full To King Size Bed Specifications.
Are Mosquito Nets Effective against the Zika Virus ?
Technically speaking yes, it prevents exposure to the mosquitoes, thanks to the well designed net. However, the conventional approach of using a mosquito net at night won’t work 100% against this species because it is mainly active during the day. So consider using additional methods with the bed net to prevent bites by mosquitoes Aedes aegypti. This website provides Guides for the best mosquito synthetic repellents and natural repellents here and here or check the Menu above at your convenience.
This page presents a comprehensive guide on how to select the best mosquito trap. One of the best ways to kill thousands of mosquitoes in the garden or wipe out a local population. They can be small units the size of air purifiers or very big as BBQ. The best mosquito traps don’t repel mosquitoes but attract and kill them. They are powered by electricity or propane. Because mosquitoes find their prey by detecting CO2, octenol and other chemical odors, as well as light and heat, various brands produce CO2, octenol, heat, or light – or a combination of those – to lure mosquitoes in, then trap them in containers where they die. A good internet site for more informations is here. Once the mosquitoes get close to the traps, fans capture and force them into catch basins or bags or onto sticky boards to die. Different mosquito species respond in different ways to the attractants e.g. the Asian tiger mosquito, which can transmit Zika, Dengue fever and yellow fever, is a daytime biter and responds better to visual attractants than chemical odors.
In comparison to chemicals, the Mosquito trap is the best option for large surfaces such as yards, garden, patio, etc. However, the main issue is that it doesn’t work immediately (it can take up to 1 week to kill a mosquito population). So for instant action, refer to one of our Reviews of the best mosquito sprays here or scroll down the Menu above “Best Mosquito Repellents”.
$:0-149; $$:150-299; $$$: 300-599; $$$$: 600 and more.
How to Make the Right Choice ?
There are several types of best mosquito traps and it’s not easy to select the best mosquito trap: they can use electricity, propane or CO2 (carbon dioxide). Note that propane mosquito traps can be named as CO2 mosquito traps because propane is used to produce CO2. The propane sold domestically in the United States is usually a mixture of propane, butane and propylene. Below is the advantages of each energy source:
Electricity: Probably one of the most significant advantages of electric powered traps is in their ease of use, especially over traps that rely on propane to produce CO2.
Propane: Several brands have had significant problems with the connections between their propane tanks and their traps. But the most popular and effective in large area.
CO2: Canisters are less expensive to run and are simple to install and considered safer to use because there is nothing being burned.
Propane mosquito traps utilize two different types of attractant, Lurex and Octenol. Octenol is used in the North, East Coast and Midwest. Lurex is used in the South because different types of mosquitoes live there.
Lurex has been specifically designed to target the Asian Tiger Mosquito carrying for exampe Zika viirus, West Nile fever and Dengue fever. Note that they are approved by EPA and environmentally friendly.
The Mosquito Suction Trap by Aspectek is one of the best mosquito trap of small size. It attracts and kills mosquitos and other flying insects including biting flies, stink bugs and small beetles. An Ultraviolet bulb generates insect-attracting light that draws mosquitoes toward the trap. A whisper-quiet vacuum fan sucks insects into the retaining cage where they quickly dehydrate and die. A unique twist-to-close feature guarantees any insects still alive in the retaining cage will not escape when the trap is turned off. Closing the top shuts off trap and keeps any still-living mosquitoes or bugs inside. It is convenient for travel, patios, kitchens and porches.
A lot of people who bought this one considered the Mosquito Magnet Patriot as one of the best mosquito trap on the market. It’s easy to use. The provided 50-foot, 12V power cord allows placement away from the family area yet near the mosquitoes’ breeding and resting areas. Lawn clips are provided to help secure the power cord. The heavy-duty plastic and marine grade metals make it ideal for harsh environments. The enhanced Mosquito Magnet Patriot has been designed for the homeowner who needs to protect up to a 1 acre area. For optimal results, run your trap 24 hours a day in order to break the mosquitoes’ breeding cycle. Allow 4 weeks to see significant results. The Patriot mosquito trap uses patented Counterflow Technology. This technology allows the trap to emit a precise plume of CO2, heat, and moisture that attracts the biting insects to the trap, while simultaneously vacuuming them into a net where they dehydrate and die within 24 hours. The Mosquito Magnet mimics a large mammal by emitting a plume of carbon dioxide, heat and moisture, which when combined with an additional attractant, Octenol or Lurex3.
Features:
Silent and odorless.
Up to 1 acre in size.
Patented CounterFlow Technology emits a plume of CO2, heat, and moisture.
Includes 50-foot low voltage cord & lawn clips to secure cord
The Blue Rhino SkeeterVac selected as one of the best mosquito trap in our Guide transforms clean-burning propane into CO2 to attract mosquitoes into its trap.Once the bugs are attracted, the Vac&Tac trapping system utilizes a powerful vacuum and sticky paper traps to securely capture them. Propane tank is sold separately. A rain cover protects the mosquito trap from the elements and from children. Assembly and maintenance take only minutes, and no tools are necessary. Within 4 to 6 weeks, an insect reduction can be observed within 1 acre. The Motion Lighting feature attracts a broader range of insects to increase your capture rate. It’s quiet, odorless, child-safe, and presents no pesky cords to trip over or get in the way of the lawn mower. A 1-year limited warranty is included.
The Cordless Guardian Pro mosquito trap requires the installation of a 20 pound propane tank, sold seperately. It utilizes the documented attractiveness of carbon dioxide (CO2), moisture, body temperature(thermal imaging), color, shape and airflow in an effective design that captures and kills mosquitoes. It’s easy to assemble. This weatherproof unit covers a full acre of land. Measuring 19 by 16 by 14.2 inches, and weighing just 28 pounds, the Bite Shield is easy to transport and tucks away just about anywhere.
Features:
Propane mosquito trap for cordless trapping anywhere
Covers up to 1 acre
Dual attraction system converts propane into carbon monoxide and uses octenol
The DYNATRAP offers a 3-way protection plan for insect elimination. First, UV fluorescent bulbs produce warm light to attract insects to the DYNATRAP. Second, an exclusive coating of titanium dioxide (TiO2) inside Dynatrap produces carbon dioxide (CO2), which is irresistible to mosquitoes. Third, the insects are lured to the powerful vacuum fan, where they are collected and trapped into the retaining cage away from the area of usage providing the user safe pest protection and comfortable living quarters.
The Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap mimics sensory signals is likely one of the best mosquito trap in its category. It attracts mosquitoes and other common biting insects from as far away as 150ft. Revolutionary Mosquito-Attracting-Stimuli (MAS) settings, and there are literally thousands of options, enables the Mega-Catch ULTRA to be fine-tuned to target specific mosquito species. While Mega-Catch Mosquito Traps need no carbon dioxide (CO2) to attract mosquitoes, operation of the patented Variable Quantity Slow CO2 Gas Release System will boost capture rates. The Mega-Catch ULTRA mosquito trap contains all the hardware needed to connect the trap to a CO2 cylinder (not included) which can be filled at hundreds of gas supply outlets throughout North America. The package contents includes:1 x MCU-900 Mega-Catch mosquito trap incorporating multifunctional programmable timer, 1 x Liquid Catch Container, 1 x Standard Catch Bag, 1 x External Skirt, 1 x 110-240/12 Volt Weatherproof Transformer, 1 x 60 foot Low-Voltage Extension Cord, 1 x Optional CO2 Gas Attractant System including low pressure gas regulator and 3 foot gas cable with snaplock fittings (cylinder not included), 1 x Stand (zinc plated/powder coated), 1 x Operation Manual.
Features:
Maximum range – 150 feet (45m)
Maximum coverage – 1.5 acres (0.6 hectare)
Patented Variable Quantity Slow CO2 Gas Release System to boost capture rates
This video says “Very cheap, effective and easy to make at home”. They won’t likely replace one of the best mosquito trap described above but it could be very useful in outdoor camping activities if you didn’t bring your mosquito trap with you. Let’s try !
The owner of this website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking zikamosquitorepellent.com to Amazon properties including, but not limited to, amazon.com.