As the summer season approaches, so does the influx of mosquitoes. This year, the concern is even greater with the recent discovery of locally acquired malaria cases in the U.S. However, there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a mosquito magnet. From your clothing choices to your drink preferences, here are five things that may be attracting mosquitoes to you.
Beware of Your Clothing Choices
Did you know that the colors you wear can affect your attractiveness to mosquitoes? According to conservation scientist Charles van Rees, mosquitoes are more attracted to darker colors and those on the red side of the spectrum. Opting for lighter shades and cooler colors like green, blue, and purple can make you less of a target for mosquito bites. So, avoid wearing black clothes or highly saturated red and orange colors if you want to keep the mosquitoes away.
Watch Your Drink Preferences
While enjoying outdoor parties and barbecues, you might be tempted to indulge in alcoholic beverages. However, pest expert Roger May warns that fermented beverages cause capillaries to expand, resulting in more blood flow to the skin's surface and increased body heat. Mosquitoes are attracted to sweat, carbon dioxide, and lactic acid, which are produced as a result. To avoid becoming a mosquito magnet, try substituting an IPA for a non-alcoholic, sugar-free beverage when spending time outdoors this summer.
Pay Attention to Your Hygiene Routine
Believe it or not, your personal care products could be attracting mosquitoes. Fragrances from soaps, shampoos, lotions, and hair products often contain floral or fruity scents that mosquitoes find appealing. Mosquito expert A.H. David suggests opting for fragrance-free products when planning to spend time outdoors. Additionally, using bug spray or topical insect repellent can help mask these scents and keep mosquitoes at bay.
Be Mindful of Heat and Exercise
Mosquitoes have the ability to detect heat signatures from a distance, making heat a major factor in mosquito feeding. Associate certified entomologist Shannon Harlow-Ellis advises against intense outdoor workouts, as they create signals that attract mosquitoes, including body heat, sweat, and increased carbon dioxide from heavy breathing. If you must exercise outdoors, it is best to do so during times when the sun is not as strong and mosquitoes are less active, such as dawn or dusk.
Avoid Water-Related Activities
As semiaquatic insects, mosquitoes lay their eggs in bodies of water. Even a small amount of standing water can attract mosquitoes. Entomologist Emma Grace Crumbley warns that if your garden has puddles, overwatered plants, or if you frequently engage in activities near ponds or lakes, you are more likely to encounter mosquitoes. Keep an eye out for potential breeding grounds, such as bird baths or pet bowls near your outdoor sitting areas, as they can also attract mosquitoes.
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My name is Maggie and I'm a writer for thesilverink.com, a website dedicated to news, culture and lifestyle. I have always been passionate about writing and I decided to make it my profession by becoming a web editor. I work on counterpoint.info and I mainly take care of the lifestyle section. I like to share my discoveries and my favorites with the readers, whether it's about fashion, beauty, decoration or gastronomy.
