Ever feel like mosquitoes completely ignore everyone else at the BBQ while you become the main target? You’re not imagining it.

Some people naturally attract more mosquitoes than others, and it has a lot to do with body chemistry, heat, and even the way you breathe. Here in Durham Region and Clarington, mosquito activity ramps up during Ontario’s warm summer months, making some backyards feel impossible to enjoy.

The good news? Understanding what attracts mosquitoes can help you reduce bites and make your outdoor space more comfortable.

What Attracts Mosquitoes to Certain People?

Mosquitoes don’t randomly choose who to bite. They use a combination of scent, body heat, and carbon dioxide to find people.

Carbon Dioxide

One of the biggest things mosquitoes are attracted to is the carbon dioxide we exhale.

People who naturally breathe out more carbon dioxide — including adults, taller individuals, and people exercising outdoors — often attract more mosquitoes.

Body Heat and Sweat

Mosquitoes are also drawn to body heat and sweat. After yard work, sports, or hot summer weather, your body releases compounds like:

• Lactic acid
• Ammonia
• Uric acid

These scents can make certain people more attractive to mosquitoes than others.

Blood Type May Play a Role

Some studies suggest mosquitoes may prefer people with Type O blood more than other blood types. While researchers are still studying this, many people swear they consistently get bitten more than friends or family members nearby.

Dark Clothing Can Attract Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes use visual cues too. Dark colours like black, navy, and deep red absorb heat and are easier for mosquitoes to spot, especially during evening hours.

Lighter-coloured clothing may help make you less noticeable outdoors.

Why This Matters: Mosquito-Borne Illness in Ontario

For most people, mosquito bites are just irritating. However, mosquitoes in Ontario can sometimes carry viruses such as West Nile virus.

While the risk of serious illness is relatively low, West Nile virus can occasionally cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, and fatigue. In rare cases, it can lead to more serious complications, particularly for older adults or those with weakened immune systems. This is why reducing mosquito bites is not just about comfort — it’s also about reducing exposure.

Why Mosquitoes Are So Bad in Durham Region & Clarington

Ontario summers create ideal mosquito conditions, especially after rainy periods. Standing water, humid weather, wooded areas, and shaded backyards all contribute to higher mosquito activity across Oshawa, Bowmanville, Courtice, Whitby, Newcastle, and surrounding communities.

Even a small amount of standing water can become a breeding area for mosquitoes.

How to Reduce Mosquitoes Around Your Property

While you can’t change your body chemistry, you can reduce mosquito activity around your home.

Eliminate Standing Water

Check areas like:

• Bird baths
• Gutters
• Kiddie pools
• Flower pot trays
• Tarps and buckets

Keep Your Yard Maintained

Long grass, dense shrubs, and shaded areas give mosquitoes places to rest during the day.

Consider Professional Mosquito Control 🙂

Professional mosquito and tick treatments target areas where mosquitoes rest and breed, helping homeowners enjoy patios, pools, and outdoor spaces more comfortably throughout the summer.  Contact us here for more information!

Stop Being the Mosquito Magnet This Summer

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do mosquitoes love me so much?” — the answer is usually a mix of body chemistry, heat, and environmental conditions.

The good news is that with proper prevention and mosquito control, you can significantly reduce mosquito activity around your yard and spend more time enjoying summer outdoors in Durham Region and Clarington.

#NoMoreBuzzingAround
– Mosquito Mom