February Mosquito Precursor Activity in Southwest Florida: What Westfall’s Is Watching
At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control, we know mosquito season in Southwest Florida doesn’t begin when customers start calling about bites—it starts much earlier. February is one of the most important months we monitor because it signals mosquito precursor activity, the early conditions that allow populations to explode later in spring.
Even when mosquitoes aren’t obvious yet, they’re already preparing.
Why February Is Critical in Southwest Florida
Southwest Florida winters are mild, and February often brings:
Daytime temperatures in the 70s
Overnight lows that stay well above mosquito dormancy thresholds
Light rain events, morning dew, and coastal tidal flooding
These conditions are enough to reactivate mosquito breeding cycles. Once temperatures consistently stay above 50–55°F, mosquitoes begin hatching, feeding, and reproducing—even if homeowners don’t notice them yet.
This is why February is a key month for proactive mosquito control in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas.
What Mosquito “Precursor Activity” Means
Precursor activity refers to the early biological and environmental signs that mosquito populations are building. During February, our Westfall’s technicians commonly observe:
Dormant mosquito eggs beginning to hatch
Larvae developing in overlooked standing water
Small but increasing adult mosquito activity
Breeding sites forming that will drive spring populations
By the time mosquitoes become a nuisance, this process has already been underway for weeks.
Common February Breeding Sites We Find
Even during the dry season, February creates ideal mosquito breeding opportunities. During routine inspections, Westfall’s technicians frequently find standing water in:
Clogged gutters and downspouts
Pool covers holding rainwater
Bird baths and plant saucers
Low-lying areas in lawns and landscaped beds
Irrigation systems with leaks or overspray
In Southwest Florida, Aedes mosquitoes—known for aggressive biting and disease transmission—are especially common around residential properties and thrive in these small water sources.
Mosquito Species Active in February
Several mosquito species common to Southwest Florida begin increasing activity this time of year, including:
Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus (daytime biters, container breeders)
Culex species (active at dusk and dawn)
Saltmarsh mosquitoes in coastal and estuarine areas after tidal flooding
These early populations become the foundation for the heavy mosquito pressure homeowners experience in March, April, and beyond.
Why Westfall’s Recommends Early Prevention
Waiting until spring often means reacting instead of preventing. February is when mosquito control is most effective because:
Breeding sites are easier to locate and eliminate
Populations are smaller and more manageable
Preventative treatments reduce population growth before peak season
Long-term mosquito control plans can be established early
At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control, our approach focuses on preventing mosquito problems before they start, not just treating them once they’re out of control.
What Homeowners Can Do in February
Westfall’s recommends homeowners:
Eliminate standing water weekly
Flush bird baths and plant trays
Clear gutters and drainage areas
Inspect irrigation systems for leaks
Schedule preventative mosquito services early
February inspections often reveal breeding sites homeowners didn’t realize were present.
Westfall’s Takeaway
Mosquito season in Southwest Florida starts quietly—and February is the warning sign. Precursor activity tells us mosquitoes are already setting the stage for spring.
By addressing mosquito control now, homeowners can enjoy fewer bites, lower disease risk, and a more comfortable outdoor season ahead.
Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control is committed to helping Southwest Florida residents stay protected year-round through proactive, professional mosquito management.