Summer means fun in the sun. Fishing, biking, hiking, camping and...mosquitos.

I hate mosquitos. Ever since I can remember, those little buggers have loved me. I didn't know if it was what I was eating, or the lotion I was using. Turns out, it could have simply been the color I was wearing.

A study from the University of Washington came out with what colors mosquitos are drawn to and what colors of clothing they will most likely avoid.

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During the research from the scientists at the University of Washington, they discovered mosquitos flew more frequently towards the following four colors:

  • Red
  • Orange
  • Black
  • Cyan

This all makes sense considering I played a lot of softball growing up and into my 30's and our jersey colors were three of the four of those colors throughout the years.

The scientists also discovered what colors mosquitos ignored more often.

  • Green
  • Purple
  • Blue
  • White

The purpose of mosquitos will forever have me baffled. We try our entire lives to avoid them, get them away from our outdoor activities, our kiddos, and basically life in general.

Mosquitos are carriers of multiple "Mosquito-borne diseases", which makes me dislike them even more.

There are ways you can make sure you are not adding to the increase in mosquitos, especially around your own oasis.

Don't leave things out that can collect standing water:

  • Bird baths
  • Pools
  • Tires

Plant mosquito repellant plants:

  • alliums
  • mums
  • marigolds
  • mint
  • basil
  • floss

Hopefully some of these tips can help you enjoy your summer without the annoyance of mosquitos.

cc: University of Washington

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