Summer's Buzzkill: Everything You Need to Know About Mosquitoes in Nebraska
Ah, Nebraska summers. Endless sunny days, cozy warm nights spent on the porch, and unfortunately… mosquitoes. If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve probably had your fair share of itchy bites and buzzing in your ear. But what you might not know is that Nebraska is relatively a hotspot for mosquito activity, and even mosquito-borne disease..
Ah, Nebraska summers. Endless sunny days, cozy warm nights spent on the porch, and unfortunately… mosquitoes. If you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve probably had your fair share of itchy bites and buzzing in your ear. But what you might not know is that Nebraska is relatively a hotspot for mosquito activity, and even mosquito-borne disease.
Now, before you start stocking up on citronella candles, here's the lowdown on what kinds of mosquitoes we have here, what risks they present, and how you can keep them from being a buzzkill at your backyard barbecue.
Meet Nebraska's Most Common Mosquitoes
Nebraska has over 50 varieties of mosquitoes flying around, but only a few are worth worrying about. Here are the major ones you're most likely to see:
Culex tarsalis – The main culprit when it comes to the spreading of West Nile virus. These individuals like to loiter around stagnant water in rural environments and are active mostly at dawn and dusk.
Aedes vexans – Daytime biters that are fairly aggressive and inhabit temporary standing water sites, like puddles and ditches after a heavy rainfall.
Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) – Not too common here yet, but they're getting their foothold. Daytime biters, these mosquitoes can spread viruses like Zika and dengue in warmer temperatures.
When Is Mosquito Season in Nebraska?
Mosquitoes tend to start flying around late April, and by July and August, it's go-go-go—particularly after heavy rains. Depending on the weather, they might stick around through September. Warmth and water? Sounds like a perfect multiplier cocktail.
What's the Risk?
The big one to watch out for in Nebraska is West Nile virus. It has been a consistent issue here for decades, and while many are not made sick by it, some do go on to develop fever, headaches, or even neurological problems in the worst cases.
How to Protect Yourself (Without Hiding Indoors All Summer)
Good news!, You don't have to spend your summer mosquito-swatting or in a hazmat suit.
Here are a few simple tricks that can go a long way:
Dump standing water – Search for buckets, birdbaths, old tires, plant saucers—anything that will hold water. Mosquitoes love it.
Use repellent – DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus products are great.
Cover up – Long sleeves and light pants can help, especially during the mosquitoes' favorite biting times (sunrise and sunset).
Fix window screens – Mosquito-proof your home.
Ask for help- Of course, sometimes your best efforts are not enough. If you are still having problems with mosquitoes on your property, it might be time to seek professional help. Hire a trustworthy pest control expert to tackle the issue for you!
Fun (and Kind of Gross) Mosquito Facts
Nebraska routinely ranks among the top states for West Nile virus cases, especially late in the summer.
Some mosquitoes can fly up to 10 miles to find a blood meal!
Mosquito eggs can even survive for months without water, just waiting for the time to hatch.
Final Thoughts
Mosquitoes are part of the Nebraska summer landscape, but they don't have to ruin it. A little knowledge and some good practices can help you enjoy the great outdoors with fewer bites and frets.
So go ahead and get that bug spray, light up the citronella, and enjoy summer—just smarter.
Cockroaches in Nebraska: What You Need to Know
Like many pests, cockroaches are attracted to places that provide food, warmth, and moisture. That means kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and any area where there might be crumbs, spills, or water leaks are prime real estate for these unwelcome visitors. While you might not find cockroaches roaming around outside in the freezing Nebraska winter, they can survive indoors year-round if the conditions are right…
What Kinds of Cockroaches Are in Nebraska?
Nebraska is home to a few different types of cockroaches. The most common ones are:
American Cockroach: This big guy can grow up to 2 inches long and is reddish-brown with a yellowish edge around its body. While they’re more common in warmer climates, you might spot them in Nebraska, particularly in larger buildings and basements.
German Cockroach: By far the most common cockroach in homes, the German cockroach is smaller (about 1/2 to 5/8 inches) and light brown with two dark stripes running down its back. They’re quick, sneaky, and known for reproducing fast—so if you spot one, there’s a good chance more are hiding out of sight.
Oriental Cockroach: These guys are black and typically found in cooler, damp areas like basements and crawl spaces. While they prefer moisture, they’re hardy and can survive a variety of conditions.
Why Are Cockroaches in Nebraska?
Like many pests, cockroaches are attracted to places that provide food, warmth, and moisture. That means kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and any area where there might be crumbs, spills, or water leaks are prime real estate for these unwelcome visitors. While you might not find cockroaches roaming around outside in the freezing Nebraska winter, they can survive indoors year-round if the conditions are right.
Health Risks of Cockroaches
Beyond the “yuck” factor, cockroaches can pose health risks. They’re known to carry bacteria and other pathogens, which they pick up while scavenging in trash and other unsanitary areas. When they crawl around your home, they can spread these germs to food and surfaces, potentially causing foodborne illnesses or infections. Cockroaches can also trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children, due to the proteins in their saliva, waste, and shed skin.
How to Keep Cockroaches Out of Your Home
If you’ve ever had a run-in with a cockroach, you know they can be tough to deal with. But don’t worry—there are things you can do to keep them from moving in permanently. Here are some tips:
Cleanliness is Key: Cockroaches love crumbs, grease, and food scraps, so keep your kitchen clean. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum often, and make sure to store food in sealed containers.
Fix Leaks: Cockroaches are attracted to moisture, so fix any plumbing leaks and keep your home dry. This will discourage them from sticking around.
Seal Up Cracks and Gaps: Cockroaches are great at sneaking into your home through small cracks and gaps. Seal up any openings around windows, doors, and pipes to make it harder for them to get in.
Use Traps or Insecticides: If you do spot a cockroach or two, use traps to catch them and keep an eye out for more. If it’s a bigger problem, insecticides or professional pest control services might be necessary.
When to Call in the Pros
If you’re seeing more cockroaches than you’re comfortable with—or if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn infestation—it might be time to call in a pest control expert. These professionals know how to track down the hidden spots where cockroaches breed and can offer the best solutions for getting rid of them.
Final Thoughts
While cockroaches in Nebraska aren’t exactly the worst thing you’ll encounter, they’re certainly not welcome guests. With the right precautions and a little know-how, you can keep them at bay and make sure they stay far away from your home. Cleanliness, sealing up cracks, and being proactive are your best defense. If you’re dealing with a bad infestation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pest control pros near you for help.
Meet Nebraska's Pest Control Experts
At Nebraska Lawn & Pest, we pride ourselves on working one-on-one with our customers to address their pest issues. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing high-quality work and ensuring that your home and garden are free from unwanted pests. We understand that every pest problem is unique, and we tailor our solutions to meet your specific needs.
Why Choose Nebraska Lawn & Pest for Your Pest Control Needs?
At Nebraska Lawn & Pest, we pride ourselves on working one-on-one with our customers to address their pest issues. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing high-quality work and ensuring that your home and garden are free from unwanted pests. We understand that every pest problem is unique, and we tailor our solutions to meet your specific needs.
Our commitment to customer satisfaction sets us apart from other pest control companies. By focusing on personalized service and effective solutions, we can help you achieve a pest-free environment quickly and efficiently.
Comprehensive Pest Control Services Offered
We offer a wide range of pest control services to tackle any issue you may be facing. From common household pests like ants and spiders to more challenging invaders like termites and rodents, we have the expertise and tools to handle it all.
Our services include thorough inspections, customized treatment plans, and ongoing maintenance to ensure your property remains pest-free. We use the latest techniques and environmentally friendly products to provide safe and effective results.
The Benefits of a Free Inspection
One of the key benefits of choosing Nebraska Lawn & Pest is our free inspection service. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to identify the root cause of your pest problem and develop a targeted treatment plan. By addressing the underlying issue, we can provide long-lasting solutions that prevent future infestations.
A free inspection also gives you peace of mind, knowing that our experts have thoroughly assessed your property and identified any potential risks. This initial step is crucial in ensuring the success of our pest control efforts.
Customized Solutions for Every Client
We understand that no two pest problems are the same. That's why we focus on providing customized solutions for every client. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and evaluate your specific situation before recommending a course of action.
By tailoring our services to meet your needs, we can ensure that you receive the most effective and efficient pest control possible. Whether you're dealing with a minor annoyance or a major infestation, we have the expertise to help.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don't let pests take over your home and garden. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your needs and find the best solution for your pest problems. Our team is ready to help you reclaim your space and enjoy a pest-free environment.