Spring in Strafford County brings welcome signs of life—budding trees, blooming gardens, and longer daylight hours. But it also brings something less welcome: a surge in mosquito activity. Thanks to New Hampshire’s typically wet spring conditions, mosquito hatch rates can skyrocket in April and May, especially in areas where standing water lingers longer than expected.
When spring storms roll through the Seacoast region, they often leave behind more than just wet grass. Pooled water in yards, woods, and roadside ditches creates countless micro-breeding zones for mosquitoes.
In fact, just one inch of standing water can be enough to support hundreds of larvae. Places like wheelbarrows, clogged gutters, flowerpot trays, and even low-lying lawn spots are common in Strafford-area properties—especially after a wet March or April.
Once laid, mosquito eggs can hatch in less than 48 hours when temperatures remain above 50°F. That makes New Hampshire’s damp and cool—but not freezing—spring especially ripe for early population growth.
Mosquitoes don’t just wait for summer to start flying. In New Hampshire, as soon as daytime temperatures reach the 50s and 60s, adult mosquitoes begin to emerge—and feed. This is often around the same time when residents start spending more time outdoors, gardening, grilling, or enjoying a walk near the woods.
Because these early-season mosquitoes often go unnoticed, they can breed uninterrupted unless homeowners take steps to interrupt the cycle.
Clogged rain gutters holding water near rooflines.
Low lawn spots where puddles linger after rain.
Uncovered trash bins or tarps collecting moisture.
Birdbaths and pet bowls that aren’t emptied frequently.
Old tires or tools stored outdoors over winter.
