Mosquitoes breed in shallow,
stagnant water. Adult mosquitoes lay eggs on the water
surface. The eggs hatch and become larvae, which live in the
water. The larvae change into pupae and then into adults.
The length of the mosquito life cycle depends on the
mosquito species and on the water temperature. The cycle can
take as little as four days, and as long as a month. The key
to preventing mosquito breeding is interrupting their life
cycle, so that they do not have an opportunity to breed.
The first line of defense is to prevent the adult mosquitoes
from laying eggs in the water in the first place. Make sure
the rain barrel is tightly sealed. Fit the top securely with
a fine mesh screen so that mosquitoes are not able to get
into the barrel.
The second line of defense is to make sure the water does
not stay in the barrel long enough for the mosquito eggs to
hatch and grow to adulthood. Make sure to empty the rain
barrel within 2-3 days after a rainstorm.
Be sure to clean rain gutters and downspouts frequently.
These can become clogged and develop small pools of standing
water where mosquitoes can breed.
