A mosquito fix that works

Our property is bounded by a creek that runs slowly year-round, and from early summer to mid-fall, I find my own backyard intolerable due to mosquitoes. I might be imagining it, but it seems like the Asian Tiger mosquitoes prevalent in Richmond, VA find me especially inviting. In summer I live life as a shut-in, because just ten minutes sitting outside becomes a half-dozen itchy welts.

We’ve tried citronella, chemical bug repellents, jar-style mosquito traps, and even a bat house. Nothing worked to my satisfaction. Last Father’s Day, my wife gifted me with a Mosquito Magnet Patriot Mosquito Trap. We had discussed buying one for years, but they’re not cheap (over $300) and the default bait that comes with it reportedly doesn’t work in our region. But she did more research and found a bait made especially for the Asian Tiger. Now, in year two of its use, I can say it’s effective and completely worth it.

Last year was not a good test case. The unit we received was broken and had to be returned. Shortly after getting the replacement, I accidentally cut the proprietary power cord and needed a replacement. This year was the first year of proper use. It’s been wonderful. We didn’t realize how well it was working until my wife visited a neighbor just two houses away, who shares the same creek, and she killed dozens of attacking mosquitoes. We realized that it was late July and we were still spending most evenings on our back deck. We have reclaimed our property.

The Mosquito Magnet is electric and uses a propane tank (the same type used my common gass grills) to produce carbon dioxide. The CO2 attracts female mosquitoes who are captured by a light vacumm, which is powered electrically. The manufacturer claims the product can cover an acre. I can’t speak to that, but placed near our house it has made a difference in both the front and back yards.

The mosquito magnet doesn’t kill many mosquitoes, but it kills the females that bite and lay eggs. I will run through four propane tanks before the season is over. That, plus the cost of the unit itself, makes the cost nontrivial. But I am very satisfied with the results and would buy another one immediately if I lost this one. Highly recommended, especially to any other Richmonders who miss being outdoors.

Purchase a Mosquito Magnet MM4100 Patriot Mosquito Trap at Amazon.