Battling Mosquitoes in West Central Iowa

If you feel like the mosquitoes around your West Central Iowa home have gotten out of control this summer—you’re absolutely right. With a hot, humid start to July and consistent rainfall, conditions are perfect for mosquito breeding. In fact, mosquito numbers across Iowa are over 10 times higher than last year, according to state monitoring programs.

So what can you do to fight back?

Why Are Mosquitoes So Bad Right Now?

Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet environments. The recent rains have created standing water in everything from ditches and birdbaths to clogged gutters and yard debris. That’s all it takes for mosquitoes to lay eggs and multiply fast. Within just a few days, a small puddle can turn into a mosquito nursery.

And this year, it’s not just the bites—it's the health risk. Iowa health officials are warning of increased risk of West Nile virus, a disease carried by mosquitoes that can be dangerous, especially for kids, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Common Mosquito Breeding Grounds Around Iowa Homes

Here’s where mosquitoes might be breeding on your property without you even realizing it:

• Buckets, tires, flower pots

• Bird baths or pet water bowls

• Kiddie pools, tarps, or toys holding water

• Clogged gutters and downspouts

• Low-lying lawn areas that stay wet

What You Can Do to Reduce Mosquitoes

You can’t control the rain, but you can take steps to protect your home and family:

1. Dump Standing Water Weekly
   Walk your yard every few days and empty out anything holding water.

2. Keep Gutters Clean
   Clogged gutters trap water and become mosquito magnets.

3. Use Outdoor Fans
   Mosquitoes hate wind. A fan on your porch or patio can actually keep them away while you enjoy your space.

4. Install Screens and Seal Gaps
   Make sure window screens are intact and doors seal tightly to keep mosquitoes outside.

5. Use Mosquito Repellents
   DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus can help protect you when outdoors.

6. Call a Professional for Yard Treatment
   If mosquitoes are still a problem, professional barrier treatments can drastically reduce populations and break the breeding cycle.

How Evicted Pest Control Can Help

At Evicted Pest Control, we offer mosquito treatments you can count on to get rid of the problem. Our licensed and insured team knows where mosquitoes hide and how to eliminate them—without damaging your lawn or landscaping.

We're veteran-owned, fully licensed, and insured. That means peace of mind for you.

If you’re in Sac, Calhoun, Carroll, or surrounding counties, we’re ready to help you take your yard back.