Our seasonal rogues gallery
Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus)
The dominant species in North Atlanta by mid-May. Aggressive daytime biter, unlike common mosquitoes it doesn't wait until dusk. Breeds in as little as a bottle cap of standing water.
Risks to humans: West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and in higher risk years, potential Zika transmission. Bites cause localized allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Risks to animals: Heartworm transmission in dogs and cats via bite. A single infected mosquito can transmit larvae that mature into worms in the heart and pulmonary arteries, can be fatal if untreated.
Covered under: Yard Shield, Outdoor Pro, Firefly Premier
Mosquito barrier treatment every 21 days + larviciding of standing water sources.
Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum)
May is peak nymph season. The nymph stage is the size of a poppy seed and nearly invisible. Highly aggressive, actively seeks hosts unlike other tick species.
Risks to humans: Ehrlichiosis, STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness), and uniquely, Alpha-gal Syndrome, an acquired red meat allergy triggered by the tick's saliva. Increasingly common in North Atlanta.
Risks to animals: Cytauxzoonosis in cats (often fatal), canine ehrlichiosis, and tick paralysis in dogs from heavy infestation.
Covered under: Yard Shield, Outdoor Pro, Firefly Premier
Tick and flea perimeter granular spray targeting harbourage zones, leaf litter, wood lines, shaded borders.
