Mosquitoes at Night
Which mosquito repellent keeps these buzzing insects away at night, and why do they seem to bite at night? Find out everything you need to know here.
Why Do Mosquitoes Come Out at Night?
The levels of mosquito activity depend on the different types of mosquitoes. Some are day-biting mosquitoes. Yet others emerge after dark and are night-time-biting mosquitoes. Most types are nighttime-biting mosquitoes.
Most species prefer the hours from dusk to dawn. If you want to prevent bites, these are the times of day to avoid being outdoors. Studies have shown that the effects of light in the day can attract or repel mosquitoes.
The reaction depends on the mosquito species. Their distinct responses to blue light and ultraviolet light can even help identify the species.
The two most common species in South Africa are the Culex Pipien, commonly found in our homes. The other is the tiny black-and-white striped bush mosquito. Or Aegypti mosquitoes. Neither are a vector for malaria.
Why do Mosquitoes Make a Whining Noise?
Mosquito wings beat thousands of times per second. It is the beating of their wings that produces the distinctive whining and buzzing they make.
Mosquitoes can control the beating of their wings. They can adjust the frequency of the sound they make. This makes the pitch either higher or lower!
The buzzing sound mosquitoes make depends on the species of mosquitoes. It also depends on the speed at which their wings beat. Did you know the frequency of a mosquito’s beating wings is also sex-dependent?
In most instances, it is only the female that seeks blood meals from humans and animals. A blood meal ensures the development of the female’s eggs. Male mosquitoes feed on plant juices and nectar. This is the reason you usually hear the buzzing of female mosquitoes and not that of males.
We conduct the identification of mosquito species by the sound they make. Place your phone close to the mosquito and record the sound. Learn more about Healthy and unhealthy ways of fighting mosquitoes.
Old Wives Tales to Prevent Mosquitoes from Biting
Dotting lavender oil on pulse points keeps insects from biting. But eating onions and garlic does not do the trick. There are plenty of old wives’ tales that don’t ward off mozzie bites.
We are familiar with DEET sprays, which are the most common insect repellent. DEET has a long-lasting effect in the fight against the bite. DEET is a chemical insect repellent.
It might have long-lasting effects, but it causes side effects. Some of the side effects include skin rashes, irritation of the skin, redness, and swelling. Used with care, however, there should be no problem using DEET sprays.
There are other ways to keep mosquitoes at bay. Here we refer to using natural products instead. According to surveys, 36% of users prefer to use natural products instead.
Always use a registered product when applying products directly to the skin. This is especially the case if you have a sensitive skin. Always test products on the inside of your forearm before using a unique product on your skin.
8 Natural Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites
1. Mozzie Skin Patches with Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Studies have shown that vitamin B1 released through the skin’s pores can repel mosquitoes. It leaves a smell only mozzies can smell that they don’t like.
Our Mozzie Patches are 100% natural and 100% safe to use, with Vitamin B1 as the only active ingredient. Shop yours today and make a difference to the bite this summer.
2. Lemon eEucalyptus as a nNatural Repellent
Lemon Eucalyptus is an active ingredient used in mosquito repellent. Some find it effective for close to 12 hours when used as a repellent. It is advisable not to use lemon eucalyptus on children under the age of 3.
Lemon eucalyptus has other health benefits. These include the relief of congestion and cold and flu symptoms.
3. Catnip is Not Only for Cats
We can use catnip to repel mosquitoes. It is more than a happy herb for cats. The oil extracted from the catnip plant has different effects than that of the plant.
Catnip oil is EPA approved. It will give you about 7 hours of protection from mosquito bites.
4. Peppermint Oil is a Natural Insecticide
Peppermint oil repels insects. Not only mosquitoes, but spiders and other bugs, too. Mix peppermint oil with scents onto your skin.
Peppermint oil is a hot oil that can cause a skin rash. Add a little canola oil to lessen the potency of the oil.
5. Lemongrass Oil as a Natural Insect Repellent
Lemongrass is effective in the fight against mosquito bites. Use lemongrass oil with other essential oils. A brilliant addition is cinnamon bark oil. This will make the fight against mosquito bites more effective.
6. What is IR3535? How Does it Work?
IR3535 is a common ingredient found in many insect repellents. It is a synthetic amino acid. But why IR3535 and what does it do?
IR3535 plays havoc with bugs’ sense of smell. It is safe to use as it contains no toxic ingredients. This product offers 8 hours of protection.
7. Using a Fan is Effective in the Fight Against Mozzies
A fan is a great way to keep mozzies in check. Mosquitoes have delicate wings and are poor fliers. An electric fan will help deter them.
8. Get rid of Standing Water Wherever Possible
House owners take heed. Pools of stagnant water around the home become an ideal breed ground for mosquitoes. Reduce outdoor biting rates by half. Unclog gutters, empty buckets or water, and change bird baths regularly. Other places to look out for are trash can lids and flower pots.
Try Our Patches for Mozzie Prevention the Natural Way
Outdoor enthusiasts, bushwhackers, and travellers take note. Our Mozzie Patches are great inside and outside water. Travel safely into mosquito hotspots. Enjoy peace of mind with the right bug protection. Get yours now!
