Are Asian Lady Beetles Harmful?
When you first see an Asian lady beetle, you might mistake it for the beloved ladybug. With their orange-red shells and black spots, these lookalike insects often appear cute and harmless, but looks can be deceiving. While they don’t pose the same kind of danger as stinging pests or wood-destroying insects, Asian lady beetles can still cause problems for homeowners across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Here’s what you need to know about these invasive beetles, the risks they pose, and how Viking Pest Control can help you keep them out of your home.
What Are Asian Lady Beetles?
Asian lady beetles (Harmonia axyridis) are an invasive species. They were first introduced to the United States in the 1900s to control agricultural pests like aphids. Over time, their population spread rapidly.
They’re often confused with native ladybugs, but there are key differences:
- Color: Asian lady beetles range from orange to red, while ladybugs tend to be a deeper red.
- Marking: Many Asian lady beetles have a small black “M” shape behind their heads.
- Behavior: Unlike native ladybugs, these beetles often gather indoors in large numbers to overwinter and can be aggressive.
Are Asian Lady Beetles Dangerous to Humans or Pets?
Asian lady beetles aren’t known to spread disease, but they can still be a nuisance and even a mild health concern in some cases.
Here’s how they can cause problems:
- Biting: While rare, Asian lady beetles can pinch skin when threatened. Their bite isn’t venomous but can be irritating.
- Allergies: Some people experience allergic reactions from contact with the beetles or their secretions, leading to itchy eyes, sneezing, or respiratory irritation.
- Odor and Stains: When disturbed, Asian lady beetles release a yellowish fluid with a strong odor that can stain walls, curtains, and furniture.
- Pet Concerns: There have been isolated cases where beetles attached to pets’ mouths or gums, causing discomfort. While uncommon, it’s another reason to keep infestations under control.
Why Are They in Your Home?
Asian lady beetles seek warmth and shelter as temperatures drop in the fall. They often enter through tiny cracks around windows, doors, siding, or attic vents, clustering together in wall voids or hidden corners to hibernate through the winter. Once inside, they can reappear in large numbers on warm days, especially near windows and ceilings.
How to Prevent Asian Lady Beetle Infestations
The best way to handle Asian lady beetles is to stop them before they get inside. Prevention and exclusion are key.
Follow these steps to keep them out:
- Seal entry points: Use caulk or weatherstripping around doors, windows, and siding gaps.
- Repair screens: Ensure window and door screens fit tightly with no holes.
- Install door sweeps: A simple barrier at the base of doors helps block beetles from sneaking in.
- Vacuum, don’t crush: If they’re already indoors, gently vacuum them up instead of squishing them to avoid stains and odors.
- Schedule professional pest control: Expert treatments can create a protective barrier around your home to deter overwintering pests like Asian lady beetles.
Viking Pest Control: Your Local Expert for Fall Invaders
If Asian lady beetles have taken over your home, Viking Pest Control has the solution. Our team uses safe, targeted treatments designed to keep overwintering pests like lady beetles, stink bugs, and cluster flies out of your living spaces.
We provide year-round protection with our SMART Pest Control Program, combining prevention, monitoring, and eco-friendly solutions tailored to your home.
Don’t let Asian lady beetles take over your home this fall.
Call Viking Pest Control at 800-618-2847 or request a free estimate online today.
Viking Pest Control Earns 2025 Top Workplace Honors in NJ and PA
At Viking Pest Control, we believe that a strong, supportive workplace leads to exceptional service, and we're proud to share some exciting news that reflects just that.
For the fifth year in a row, Viking has been named a Top Workplace in New Jersey by NJ.com. And this year, we’re thrilled to announce that our Pennsylvania team has also earned Top Workplace honors from The Philadelphia Inquirer. This recognition marks a major milestone as we continue expanding our award-winning culture across the region.
What Makes This Award Special
Unlike many business awards, the Top Workplace designation is based entirely on employee feedback, gathered anonymously through a trusted third-party survey. It reflects how our team feels about everything from leadership and work-life balance to innovation and professional growth.
“Earning the Top Workplace designation is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our employees,” said James McIntyre, President of Viking Pest Control. “Their passion and commitment make this company what it is.”
Why Viking Is a Top Workplace
We’ve worked hard to foster a positive, inclusive, and purpose-driven environment where employees can thrive. Here’s a glimpse of what makes Viking stand out:
Meaningful Work & Mission-Driven Culture
We empower our team to solve real problems for our customers, supported by leadership that values their growth.
Safety First
We maintain a drug-free workplace, enforce background checks, and prioritize the safety of both employees and customers.
Competitive Benefits
Paid vacation, health insurance, company vehicles for field roles, 401(k) with company match, and leadership development programs are just a few perks.
Innovation & Growth
From the latest technology to ongoing training, we invest in the future—and in our people.
Diversity & Belonging
We believe everyone deserves to feel accepted and empowered at work, and we’re committed to building a workplace where all voices are heard.
“Our people are the foundation of our success,” McIntyre added. “It’s important to us that everyone here feels like they belong.”
Recognized for Excellence Across the Board
This recognition joins a growing list of honors for Viking Pest Control in 2025:
- Named one of Forbes' 10 Best Pest Control Companies
- Awarded Best Pest Control Company for Sustainability by The Spruce
- Earned Gold in the Best of Jersey Shore Awards for our NJ South branch
Ready to Join the Team?
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for your next great opportunity, Viking offers more than a job—it’s a place to grow, give back, and make a difference.
Visit vikingpest.com to explore open positions and apply today.
Viking Pest Control Urges New Jersey Residents To Prepare For Summer Pest Surge As Tick Populations Rise
In 2024, New Jersey faced a significant increase in tick activity. The state reported 7,200 tick-borne illnesses in 2024, up from 3,110 in 2020. The trend seems poised to continue in 2025, with 1,517 cases reported through May 8. This uptick is linked to warmer weather, which boosts tick populations. As peak summer season begins once again, Viking Pest Control is urging homeowners to take action against growing pest populations, especially ticks, which are trending to be more active this year than ever.
"Ticks thrive in warm, humid environments, and this summer is no exception," says Eric Gunner, a pest control expert at Viking Pest Control. "We’re seeing a significant uptick in tick activity, especially in suburban and rural areas. It's crucial for homeowners to take preventive measures now to protect their families and pets."
Viking Pest Control recommends the following tips for keeping ticks at bay:
- Maintain Your Yard: Keep grass short and clear away any leaf litter where ticks can hide.
- Quality Fencing: While ticks are small and have tiny legs, wild animals like raccoons or deer allow them to travel much farther than they can on their own. A properly constructed and maintained fence can help to keep wildlife and the ticks they carry away.
- Prevent Littering: Related to fencing, loose garbage can attract tick-carrying pests to your home and yard. If you properly seal your garbage receptacles, you will reduce the risk of ticks coming to your yard.
- Use Tick Repellents: Apply EPA-approved tick-repellent sprays judiciously as directed by the label.
- Check for Ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and pets for ticks. The earlier you can remove a tick after it latches on to a host, the less likely they are to transmit a disease.
- Last Bite Preventive Yard Treatments: Viking Pest offers Last Bite treatments that can form a protective barrier for your yard that can keep both ticks and mosquitoes away. Last Bite Green is available for those who want to take a more eco-friendly approach.
In addition to ticks, homeowners should be on the lookout for common summer pests such as mosquitoes, ants, and wasps, which thrive during the hot and humid summer months. Viking Pest Control offers pest prevention packages to help proactively address pest issues before they can ruin your summer.
“It's always easier to prevent an infestation than to deal with it once it’s out of control,” said Gunner. “Our team is ready to help homeowners protect their homes with our comprehensive pest control services.”
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Viking Pest Control’s website at vikingpest.com or call 800-618-2847.
Viking Pest Control Opens New Office in Denville, NJ
Pictured: Barbara Hess, VP Operations - Viking, Robert Lagomarsino Branch Manager – Viking , James McIntyre, President – Viking, Thomas Andes - Denville Mayor, Kevin Murphy, Director of Business Operations - Morris County Chamber of Commerce, Ben Snyder, VP Business Development – Viking
Award-Winning Pest Control Company Expands Reach to Better Serve Northwest NJ
BASKING RIDGE, NJ, May 6, 2025 - Viking Pest Control is pleased to announce the opening of a new branch office in Denville, NJ, enabling the acclaimed company to better service homes and businesses in Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties. Viking has partnered with the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and is excited to be a part of such a robust business community. Together, they are hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the grand opening on May 7, 2024, from 4:00-6:00 pm at 321 Palmer Rd., Unit 1, Denville, NJ 07834.
Viking Pest offers award-winning pest control services and has been recognized on multiple national and regional "best of" lists for pest control, mosquito services, termite services, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Publications praising Viking include Forbes Home, The Spruce, Better Homes and Gardens, CNN Underscored, and Real Simple. Viking Pest also has more than 3,000 five-star reviews on Google and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Viking Pest is a QualityPro member, meaning its customers will receive professional pest management solutions performed by certified individuals. Viking also holds GreenPro membership, meaning it is a leader in sustainable pest control standards. Additionally, Viking is the region's exclusive provider of Anticimex SMART Rodent Control.
"We’re excited to expand our presence in Northwest New Jersey,” says Robert Lagomarsino, Branch Manager “For more than 40 years, Viking Pest Control has built a reputation for reliable, eco-friendly service that homeowners and businesses can count on. By opening a local branch in the area, we’ll be able to respond faster, support our community more directly, and continue delivering the high-quality pest management our customers have come to expect.”
Viking Pest Control is a leading provider of pest management services committed to ensuring a healthy and safe living environment for its customers. With a team of highly skilled professionals and a customer-centric approach, the company offers comprehensive pest control solutions tailored to meet individual needs. Viking's dedication to excellence, innovation, and community involvement sets it apart as a trusted industry leader.
For more information on Viking's extended coverage in New Jersey, call 800-618-2847 or visit their website.
Viking Pest Control Announces Leadership Promotions of James McIntyre to President and Barbara Hess to VP of Operations
Leading Pest Control Provider Elevates Two Key Leaders to Drive Continued and Operational Excellence
Viking Pest Control, a leader in pest management services in NJ, PA, DE, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, proudly announces the promotion of James McIntyre to President and Barbara Hess to Vice President of Operations. These leadership appointments highlight Viking's dedication to providing exceptional pest control solutions, with both McIntyre and Hess having built the bulk of their careers at Viking, each contributing 20+ years of expertise to the company.
McIntyre and Hess bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to their new roles, building on Viking Pest Control's reputation for excellence and customer-focused innovation. Both leaders will focus on enhancing operational efficiency, expanding service offerings, and reinforcing Viking's position as a trusted partner in protecting homes and businesses.
"I am confident that Jim and Barb will further strengthen our business and enhance the exceptional value we provide our customers," said Paul Bergmann, COO of Anticimex North America, "Their promotions underscore our commitment to investing in our team members as a core value. I look forward to collaborating with them in their new roles and seeing how their leadership propels Viking Pest Control into its next chapter of success."
James McIntyre: Leading the Next Phase of Viking Pest Control
McIntyre joined Viking Pest Control in 2005 as a Technician and quickly emerged as a natural leader. Over the years, he has excelled in every operational role, from Technician and Service Manager to Branch Manager and Vice President of Operations. His leadership has fostered a "team-first" culture, driving improvement in employee retention and directly contributing to enhanced service levels and stronger customer loyalty. A firm believer in servant leadership, McIntyre emphasizes the importance of core values and creating a sense of ownership across the company. His approach has united Viking's employees in a shared mission to succeed. As VP of Operations, McIntyre implemented a technician career path, providing a clear roadmap for growth and advancement. He also established a safety committee to prioritize on-the-job safety initiatives. McIntyre takes great pride in his team's accomplishments; with many individuals he has mentored, advancing into leadership roles, receiving industry recognition, and driving the company's ongoing growth and reputation for excellence.
"I'm honored to lead Viking Pest Control and excited to work alongside our talented team to continue delivering top-tier service while leading in sustainability," said McIntyre. "Our employees are the foundation of our success, and my focus will remain on prioritizing the health and safety of our people, customers, and the environment. We'll emphasize continuous training and professional growth by fostering an employee-first culture. I trust my team to make decisions, drive initiatives, and embrace new ideas while celebrating successes and learning from challenges."
Barbara Hess: Driving Technician Excellence and Exceptional Service
Hess began her career with Viking Pest Control in 1998 as a Customer Service Representative and has consistently advanced through the ranks. Most recently, she served as the Branch Manager for Viking's New Jersey West location, where her leadership earned the Branch recognition as a top performer and the distinction of receiving the most positive customer reviews. Hess is eager to apply her strategic expertise on a broader scale to improve Viking's overall operations. In recognition of her significant contributions to the pest management industry, Hess was honored with the prestigious National Pest Management Association Impact Award in 2024, a distinction given to influential women shaping the future of the pest control industry. Hess brings a deep understanding of field operations and is passionate about empowering every branch to thrive. Hess’ leadership philosophy is centered on building employee trust, which she considers essential for long-term success. Hess is committed to driving customer satisfaction, excellence, fostering a positive workplace culture, and ensuring each technician has the resources and support needed to succeed.
"Viking is an incredibly exciting and dynamic company, and I'm thrilled to be part of such a forward-thinking organization," said Hess. "I look forward to collaborating with our passionate and dedicated team across our service areas to continue to provide the highest quality pest management solutions. Whether it's protecting our clients' homes, businesses or communities, our focus will always be on delivering exceptional service, building lasting relationships, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the company."
Viking Pest Control is a leading provider of pest management services committed to ensuring a healthy and safe living environment for its customers. With a team of highly skilled professionals and a customer-centric approach, the company offers comprehensive pest control solutions tailored to meet individual needs. Viking's dedication to excellence, innovation, and community involvement sets it apart as a trusted industry leader.
For more information about Viking Pest Control, please visit Vikingpest.com1.
Eric Gunner
Viking Pest Control
+1 800-618-2847
email us here
Viking Pest Control Joins Forces with WJRZ for the 2024 ‘Share the Joy’ Drive to Support Local Families
Community Collaboration Brings Food, Supplies, and Thanksgiving Turkeys to Families in Need Across the Region
Viking Pest Control, a leader in pest management services, is proud to announce its continued participation in Beasley Media’s WJRZ Share the Joy charity event. This year’s partnership showcased the company’s dedication to community well-being through its annual food drive, which brought team members together to make a meaningful impact on local families in need.
The Share the Joy event aligns seamlessly with Viking Pest Control’s mission to prioritize well-being and safety of the communities it serves. Through a collective effort, Viking’s team members donated over 900 pounds of food, filling multiple truckloads with nonperishables. Contributions came from every branch, administrative teams, and remote employees, who generously donated cash to purchase additional items.
In addition to participating in Share the Joy, Viking Pest Control made an additional contribution, donating 20 turkeys to The Corners of the Field Food Pantry, hosted by Porters Grove Baptist Church in Rising Sun, MD. These turkeys will help provide meals for families in need this Thanksgiving, further exemplifying Viking’s commitment to spreading joy and giving back.
“Our annual food drive is a cornerstone of Viking’s commitment to giving back,” said Eric Gunner, Pest Management Professional at Viking. “It’s inspiring to see how deeply our team cares about supporting our neighbors in need. Their dedication to this initiative truly reflects the values we uphold as a company.”
This year’s collaboration with Beasley Media’s WJRZ reinforces Viking’s role as a community-focused organization. By joining the Share the Joy collection drive, Viking contributed to local families and strengthened its ties with the communities it serves.
As a company rooted in customer care and service excellence, Viking Pest Control remains steadfast in its commitment to improving lives through professional pest management and community engagement.
For over 40 years, Viking Pest Control has been a trusted provider of comprehensive pest management solutions. With a team of highly trained professionals, the company is dedicated to delivering innovative, eco-friendly services tailored to meet individual needs. Beyond pest control, Viking demonstrates its leadership through initiatives that foster healthier, happier communities.
To learn more about Viking Pest Control and its ongoing community efforts, visit VikingPest.com.
Effective Pest Control in NJ: How to Control Pests During a Drought
In New Jersey, drought isn't just tough on people and ecosystems. Common local pests like rats, millipedes, and pill bugs depend on water just as much as humans and other animals do. When water is scarce where they're used to finding it, they have no choice but to look for it other places.
Unfortunately, those places include your yard, garden, and even the interior of your home, but you don't have to simply accept that. Here we'll go over a few pest control in NJ tips for keeping your property pest-free during a drought.
What Kinds of New Jersey Pests Invade Homes in Search of Water?
Unfavorable environmental conditions like drought often mean insect and pest populations are lower than usual. You may notice fewer pests in your vicinity as a result, but they're absolutely still there. If they decide to invade your property in search of water, they may do so in large numbers.
Some New Jersey-area pests are especially sensitive to dry conditions, not to mention a lot more likely to migrate in large numbers to find water and moisture. Examples include:
- Millipedes
- Sowbugs/pill bugs
- Springtails
- Clover mites
Rats are also extremely moisture-dependent. Each rat needs a minimum of 1-1 ½ ounces of water every day. If they can't find it outdoors, they have no problem infiltrating human dwellings in search of it.
How to Keep NJ Pests Off Your Property During a Drought
The key to keeping pests like rats, millipedes, and more out of your home is prevention. Here are a few key tips for keeping them away from your property.
Address exterior sources of moisture
A yard or garden full of accessible water sources will be especially appealing to New Jersey pests, so consider eliminating these. Fix leaky garden hoses and exterior faucets. Drain any standing water or puddles that develop on your property.
You may also want to consider temporarily draining fixtures like fountains, pools, or koi ponds to avoid attracting pests.
Seal up any points of entry
Pests like rats, roaches, and ants can be extremely diligent when it comes to finding a way into a human dwelling. A rat can fit through openings smaller than a nickel, and insects like ants can easily fit through even tiny cracks.
Keep your doors and windows shut as often as you can. Walk your property and inspect the foundation for crevices, cracks, or holes that could grant access to persistent pests. Seal them up immediately.
Stay on top of your trash
Trash cans and garbage piles are a treasure trove for pests under even normal circumstances. However, they're especially attractive during a drought, as they often contain accessible sources of precious moisture.
Empty indoor waste cans and trash bins frequently to avoid attracting pests. Store outdoor waste in tightly sealed bins to contain smells and keep rodents, insects, and other pests from getting into it.
Call a trusted NJ exterminator
You don't need to wait until you notice pests on the premises to benefit from a good NJ exterminator. An exterminator can inspect your property for signs of infestation or potential entry points and address any issues. They can also implement preventative treatments that ensure pests stay off your property and out of your life.
Viking Pest Control is New Jersey's go-to pest authority for some very good reasons. Safe, effective solutions that won't harm your family and extensive local knowledge of New Jersey pests are just two. Get in touch today, and let us know how we can help!
Viking Pest Wins Official Community's Choice Awards for Pest Control
Viking Subsidiary Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control Also Honored
On November 16, 2023, Viking Pest was honored with Official Community’s Choice Awards for Best Pest Control Company in Monmouth County, N.J., Ocean County, N.J., and Central Jersey. The gala event was held at iPlay America in Freehold, N.J. Viking team members Ben Snyder, Scott Devrous, Anthony Miscia, and Sean Yunginger were proud to accept the awards on behalf of Viking.
These awards are voted on by members of the Monmouth and Ocean County communities. Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control, a recent Viking acquisition, also reached the final round of voting, earning recognition as one of the three best pest control companies in Monmouth County.
The Official Community’s Choice Awards are produced by Ventures, a Part of the USA Today Network, and celebrate the best businesses and organizations across the country as determined by residents of the counties they serve. Viking was chosen as the winner after three rounds of voting. Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control, which was recently acquired by Viking, reached the final round of voting in Monmouth County, claiming a position as one of the three best pest control companies in the region.
“We are very honored to see Viking acknowledged by the people of Monmouth and Ocean Counties,” said Eric Gunner of Viking Pest Control. “Viking’s philosophy has always been to maintain a community-first mindset, no matter how much we grow. While we have grown and expanded over the years, we have always made sure that we never lose our focus as a local pest control company.”
The Official Community Choice Awards come as Viking’s latest honor in 2023. Earlier this year, Viking was recognized as one of the best pest control companies in the country by publications including Forbes Home, The Spruce, Better Homes & Gardens, and Real Simple. Viking was also recognized as one of the best workplaces in New Jersey by NJ.com for the third year in a row. Additionally, Viking was rated Best of Houzz, on the popular home improvement site.
Viking Pest offers exceptional service from expertly trained technicians dedicated to solving your pest problems. If you are looking for pest control services or have any questions, contact us today at 800-618-2847.
Viking Pest Control Voted Top Workplace for Third Consecutive Year
BASKING RIDGE, NJ, February 21, 2023 – Viking Pest Control is proud to have been voted “Top Workplace” and achieved The Top Workplace award in New Jersey by NJ.com for the third consecutive year.
Our team was again honored to be receive the Top Workplace award for 2023. The recognition is based solely on employee feedback gathered anonymously and administered by a third party, Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization.
This award is granted to companies that create a culture where employees feel engaged, appreciated, and fulfilled. Paul Bergmann, President of Viking Pest Control, said, “Earning a Top Workplace Award is a badge of honor since it comes from our employees, and we are honored they voted this way. We are proud to share this award with our team and our customers.”
What sets Viking Pest Control apart from other companies when it comes to a career choice?
- A working environment that values meaningful work, open-minded and supportive managers, and clued-in employees providing transformative solutions for customers.
- Enforced background checks for all employees and a drug-free working environment to ensure a safe space for all team members.
- Competitive compensation with numerous benefits, including paid vacation time, health coverage, and more.
- A healthy work atmosphere with opportunities to learn about and adopt new technology and meet new challenges.
- Diversity – employees feel accepted and valued at Viking Pest Control, regardless of gender or ethnicity.
Viking Pest Control has over 40 years of experience in the pest control industry, continually delivering customer service that exceeds industry norms.
President of Viking Pest Control, Paul Bergmann, says, “Creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute is at the heart of our culture. Viking believes a diverse team leads to different individual characteristics and perspectives, integral to company growth. As a result, our employees feel accepted and valued at Viking Pest, which, along with customer satisfaction, is our ultimate success.”
Look no further if you are searching for a job in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or The Eastern Shore of Maryland at a reputable company. Viking team members enjoy extensive training, competitive benefits, and a friendly and supportive work environment. Check out our job openings to learn what positions are currently hiring. Find out what it means to work at one of the Top Places to Work!
The company creates effective and efficient pest management solutions for residents and business owners in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. The company is a QualityPro member, meaning that its customers are sure to receive professional pest management solutions performed by certified and qualified individuals. Viking’s employees are held to high standards. Viking is proud also to have been named Forbes Advisor one of the 10 Best Pest Control Companies for 2023; the Spruce named Viking the Best Pest Control company for Sustainability. Viking has also been awarded Best of Houzz 2023 for Customer Service 2023.
Those interested in joining the Viking Pest Control team can check out open opportunities here.
###
Press Contact:
Eric Gunner, Pest Management Professional
Phone: 800-618-2847
E-mail: pr@vikingpest.com
Website: www.vikingpest.com
How to Get Rid of Mosquitos in New Jersey
Mosquitoes are one of the most frustrating pests homeowners deal with during the warmer months in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. Their itchy bites can quickly ruin time spent outdoors, and more importantly, some mosquito species are capable of spreading serious diseases.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to reduce mosquito activity around your home and create a safer, more comfortable outdoor environment for your family.
Why Mosquitoes Are a Problem
Not every mosquito carries disease, but mosquitoes are known vectors for several dangerous viruses and pathogens. Certain species, including Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are capable of spreading illnesses such as:
- West Nile virus
- Zika virus
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- Other mosquito-borne diseases
Because mosquitoes acquire pathogens throughout their lifespan, reducing mosquito populations around your property is an important step toward lowering exposure risk.
How Mosquitoes Breed
Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, making even small amounts of stagnant water around your property potential breeding sites.
Common mosquito breeding areas include:
- Clogged gutters
- Birdbaths
- Buckets and flowerpots
- Old tires
- Pet water bowls
- Tarps
- Kiddie pools
- Poorly drained landscaping
- Decorative water features without circulation
Because many mosquito species stay relatively close to where they hatch, mosquitoes biting you in your backyard are often breeding nearby.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes Around Your Home
Reducing mosquito populations starts with eliminating the conditions they need to survive.
Eliminate Standing Water
One of the most effective mosquito prevention methods is removing stagnant water from your property regularly.
Empty or refresh water from:
- Birdbaths
- Planters
- Toys and containers
- Pet bowls
- Gutters and downspouts
For ponds or decorative water features, installing pumps or fountains can help keep water moving and less attractive to mosquitoes.
Install and Maintain Screens
Mosquitoes can easily enter homes through damaged screens or open doors and windows.
Inspect and repair screens around:
- Windows
- Doors
- Vents
- Chimneys
- Outdoor living spaces
Even small tears or openings can allow mosquitoes inside.
Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Some plants may help discourage mosquitoes around patios and outdoor seating areas.
Popular mosquito-repelling plants include:
- Basil
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Rosemary
- Catnip
While these plants alone won’t eliminate mosquitoes, they can help complement other prevention efforts.
Use Outdoor Repellents
EPA-approved repellents containing ingredients like DEET can help reduce mosquito bites when spending time outdoors.
Essential oils such as peppermint or rosemary may also provide short-term mosquito deterrence for some individuals.
Why Professional Mosquito Control Works
Completely eliminating mosquitoes is nearly impossible, but professional mosquito control significantly reduces mosquito populations and helps create a protective barrier around your property.
Professional mosquito treatments typically focus on:
- Reducing mosquito breeding areas
- Treating vegetation where mosquitoes rest
- Interrupting mosquito life cycles
- Lowering populations of disease-carrying species
Because mosquitoes often remain close to their breeding sites, targeted yard treatments can dramatically reduce biting pressure around homes.
Benefits of Professional Mosquito Control
Professional mosquito management offers several advantages:
- Fewer mosquito bites
- Reduced outdoor nuisance activity
- Lower exposure risk to mosquito-borne illnesses
- Ongoing seasonal protection
- Targeted treatments customized to your property
Routine mosquito services are especially valuable for properties near wooded areas, standing water, or dense landscaping.
Professional Mosquito Control From Viking Pest Control
At Viking Pest Control, our mosquito treatment programs help homeowners throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland enjoy their outdoor spaces with fewer mosquitoes and less worry.
Our mosquito control services include thorough property inspections, targeted treatments, and ongoing seasonal protection designed to reduce mosquito activity throughout peak mosquito season.
If mosquitoes are taking over your yard, professional mosquito control can help you reclaim your outdoor space and enjoy the warmer months more comfortably.