Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water and it takes about two to four days for the eggs to grow into adults that are ready to fly. Even a small amount of water, such as the amount in a saucer under a flower pot, is enough to provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Top Ten Mosquito Breeding Grounds

1. Bird baths
2. Old tires
3. Unused containers, such as barrels
4. Flower pot saucers
5. Swimming pool covers
6. Wading pools
7. Clogged gutters and eavestroughs
8. Clogged drainage ditches
9. Small containers like cans or bottle caps
10. Unused children's toys or vehicles

It is important to eliminate as much standing water around your home, cottage, and business as possible.

Reduce Possible Mosquito Breeding Areas Around Your Home

1. Stagnant water located in bird baths should be changed at least once a week.
2. Yard waste, such as lawn cuttings and raked leaves, which are present in gutters or storm drains prevent water from flowing and harbour perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
3. Low-lying depressions in lawn areas where water can collect should be filled in.
4. Leaves and twigs can block roof gutters and eavestroughs and prevent proper water drainage.
5. Compost should be turned over frequently and areas of organic matter, which provide a food source for mosquito larvae, should be collected and recycled immediately.
6. Stagnant water of any kind is a breeding area for mosquitoes.
7. Open or broken window screens and attic vents offer perfect avenues for mosquitoes to make their way into your home. Window screens should fit snugly into the frame, vents should remain closed and for further prevention, windows should also be shut during the hours of dusk and dawn.
8. Pool covers often collect water and should be emptied right away. Wading pools need to be turned over when they are not in use.
9. Toys and other objects around the yard should be placed in an area where they won't collect rainwater.
10. Mosquitoes are often attracted to containers of standing water in wheelbarrows or tires that are left outside. To avoid this, drill holes in the bottom of containers to allow water to flow out or turn over those items that are not in use.
11. Leaky faucets should be closed tightly as water build-up can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

It's important to clean up around your house because most mosquitoes fly in a radius of about one to three kilometres from their breeding site.