Do Mosquitoes Have Predators?

Of all the pests that can ruin your time outside, mosquitoes might be the worst culprit. Besides their annoying bites, they can even transmit dangerous diseases. You do your part in keeping your yard free of standing water and using proper repellent techniques, but does nature help you out too? The answer is yes! Mosquitoes have predators that help dwindle the pest’s population.

Mosquitoes’ Predators

• Bats: Bats do eat mosquitoes, but it isn’t a top choice because they are harder to locate.
• Birds: Purple martins, swallows, waterfowl, and songbirds are the biggest predators.
• Fish: Goldfish, guppies, bass, bluegill, and catfish prey and larvae. If you’re going to have a standing body of water on your property (though we recommend against it!), but sure to have some of these fish there, too.
• Turtles:  The red-eared slider is the turtle most likely to munch on mosquito larvae.
• Dragonflies: This insect is known as a “mosquito hawk.” While they do eat plenty of mosquitoes and mosquito larvae, it isn’t enough to make a serious dent on the mosquito population.
• Spiders: Spiders will gladly eat mosquitoes that fly into their webs.

The bottom line: while mosquitoes do have predators that pitch in with the population control, you still need to do your part with preventative measures, like making sure your yard is free of standing water.

And Finally, ExtermPRO.

We are some of mosquitoes’ worst predators. We know just how harmful this pest can be for you and your family, so we offer mosquito control services. Call us today at 571-620-1168 for a free quote and to schedule a service.