The Mosquito Hack Minnesotans Need to Know This Summer

Mosquitoes are an annoyingly familiar part of the warm weather season here in southeast Minnesota, but there's one trick you can use to keep them away from you this summer-- and it doesn't involve any chemicals or sprays.

Why Minnesota Has So Many Mosquitoes Each Summer

Minnesota may be the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but did you know we're also the land of thousands of mosquitoes? Not just the number of them in your backyard here in the North Star State, mind you, but the total number of mosquito species. Minnesota's own Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) says there are literally THOUSANDS of species of mosquitoes:

There are over 3,000 species of mosquitoes worldwide and here in Minnesota we have about 51 different species that are established. Only about half of those local species are considered a nuisance meaning that they bite humans or can vector diseases.

In case you've never heard of it, the MMCD is a state agency created in 1958 and based in St. Paul that provides services to the seven-county Twin Cities metro area. And they have their hands full, as a recent report just included Minneapolis as one of the most mosquito-infested cities in the entire country!

ALSO INTERESTING: Minnesota Tick Bite Activity Highest in Nearly a Decade

If those bloodthirsty buggers seem to be invading your yard, the MMCD has five tips on creating a mosquito-free yard, so you can still get out and enjoy our all-too-short summer weather here in the Bold North:

1. Eliminate mosquito breeding sources
2. Control mosquito larvae
3. Use physical barriers
4. Control adult mosquitoes
5. Protect yourself

Get our free mobile app

The Simple Fan Trick That Can Help Keep Mosquitoes Away

Meanwhile, to prevent mosquito bites, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents, wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants or clothing and gear treated with permethrin.  However, other pest management specialists point out that there is a much simpler solution that just might keep those skeeters away from you this summer: A simple fan.

How to Use a Fan to Reduce Mosquitoes on Your Patio or Deck

According to mosquito-control experts cited by The Washington Post, a strong fan running even outside can be a surprisingly effective deterrent, because mosquitoes are weak flyers that have difficulty navigating strong air currents.

An oscillating fan running outside on your deck or patio can help disperse the carbon dioxide we exhale, making it harder for mosquitoes to locate us. It can also physically prevent mosquitoes from landing on exposed skin.

If you're going to try this tactic in your backyard this summer, be aware that a fan needs to be on a fairly high setting to be effective, and stronger fans tend to work better than gentle breezes.

On the other hand, instead of battling those perky insects, perhaps you'd like to spend the summer inside. If so, you'll want to check out this incredible home in Minnesota that's actually more like a castle, with plenty of space for you to avoid those bugs. Keep scrolling to check out the pics!