Protecting Indianapolis from Mosquitoes: From Tires to Treatments
Mosquito season is getting longer, and Indianapolis is feeling the sting. The city now ranks among the top 20 worst US cities for mosquitoes, climbing 12 spots in just one year. Warmer weather, more rainfall, and a longer mosquito season mean homeowners face a growing threat to their health and comfort.
Fighting back takes both community action and smart home protection. Fortunately, Indianapolis has both.
Indianapolis: One of the Worst US Cities for Mosquitoes
Recent data ranks Indianapolis as the 16th worst city in the US for mosquito activity—a significant jump from the previous year. This increase aligns with reports that the number of mosquito-friendly days per year has steadily grown, driven by warming temperatures and shifting weather patterns.
Why does this matter? Mosquitoes aren’t just an annoyance. According to the CDC, they are the deadliest animal in the world, responsible for over 700,000 deaths annually. They carry dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and encephalitis, and they reproduce quickly in areas with standing water. With longer breeding seasons and more favorable conditions, mosquito populations can explode if left unchecked.
Why Mosquito Populations Are Growing in Indiana
The growing mosquito problem in Indianapolis isn’t just about the weather. Here are a few key factors contributing to the surge:
• Longer warm seasons
mean mosquitoes stay active for more months each year.
• Standing water
collects after frequent rainfall, creating perfect breeding grounds.
• Urban environments
with dense housing, blocked gutters, and unmaintained yards offer ample shelter.
Even everyday items like flower pots, birdbaths, kiddie pools, or tarps can hold enough water to support a mosquito hatch. But one of the biggest culprits? Discarded tires.
Tire Recycle Day: A Community Solution That Works
To eliminate one of the worst mosquito breeding grounds, the Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) has hosted an annual Tire Recycle Day in previous years. This event allows residents to safely dispose of up to six passenger vehicle tires (off-rim) at no cost. The tires are collected and recycled, removing standing water habitats before they lead to infestation.
“Tires attract and retain heat, hold enough water to hatch eggs, and offer protection from predators and chemical treatments,” said Terry Gallagher, supervisor in Mosquito Control at the MCPHD.
As of June 9, 2025, no official date for this year’s event has been set due to ongoing construction at the collection site. Residents are encouraged to contact MCPHD Mosquito Control for updates.
Homeowner Tips: How to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Yard
While city-wide efforts help reduce mosquito pressure, homeowners can take key steps to protect their properties:
- Eliminate standing water weekly from buckets, planters, tarps, toys, tires, and birdbaths.
- Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent pooling water.
- Keep grass mowed and bushes trimmed to limit resting spots.
- Install screens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out, and patch any tears in the screens as they occur.
- Use EPA-registered repellents when spending time outdoors.
These prevention tips can significantly cut down mosquito populations, but even using best practices, infestations can persist. That’s when it’s time to bring in the experts.
Homeowner Tips: How to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Yard
While city-wide efforts help reduce mosquito pressure, homeowners can take key steps to protect their properties:
Eliminate standing water
weekly from buckets, planters, tarps, toys, tires, and birdbaths.
Clear gutters and downspouts
to prevent pooling water.
Keep grass mowed and bushes trimmed
to limit resting spots.
Install screens
on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out, and patch any tears in the screens as they occur.
Use EPA-registered repellents
when spending time outdoors.
These prevention tips can significantly cut down mosquito populations, but even using best practices, infestations can persist. That’s when it’s time to bring in the experts.
Professional Mosquito Treatments from AAA Exterminating
When DIY steps aren’t enough, AAA Exterminating offers targeted mosquito control to protect your home and family. As a pest control company in Indianapolis, Indiana, AAA has been serving local homeowners for over 70 years with solutions that work.
AAA’s mosquito control services include:
Thorough inspections
to locate breeding areas and mosquito harborage zones
Targeted treatments
that reduce existing mosquito populations
Preventative applications
that help keep mosquitoes from returning
Our treatments are safe, effective, and tailored to your property’s specific layout and environmental conditions.
Take Back Your Yard This Summer
Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a growing threat in Indianapolis. With longer breeding seasons and rising mosquito activity, protecting your outdoor space requires more than a few citronella candles.
Whether prepping for backyard gatherings or wanting peace of mind, AAA Exterminating offers the professional support you need to confidently reclaim your yard.
Ready To Take Back Your Yard?
Call AAA Exterminating at (317) 773-3797 or reach out online to schedule your free mosquito control consultation.