Recent storms are leaving behind more than downed limbs; the rains are also bringing mosquitoes.

Every possible container around our homes, yards and neighborhoods that hold water can be a mosquito breeding site.

Mosquitoes in their larval and pupal stages require standing water, and the most efficient, effective technique to reduce the adult mosquito population is to eliminate standing water. But this can be trickier than it appears.

  This year's mosquito season has had a relatively slow start . Despite a warm February , a cool March slowed development, and winter was dry across Middle and South Georgia , where many of Georgia's natural mosquito habitats occur. The recent rains have made the state relatively wet and left water standing in low-lying areas. 

These temporary habitats can be productive for mosquitoes.  All mosquitoes need moisture, either standing water or boggy soil, to develop from eggs to adults. Only adult mosquitoes bite. 

The most common larval habitats around homes and gardens are dishes and trays associated with potted plants. Other habitats include tarps, downspouts, underground drainage systems and boats. Anything that can hold water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. 

Used tires are a particularly problematic habitat for container-breeding mosquitoes.  In addition to containers, some low-lying areas will hold water, allowing flood-water species of mosquitoes to emerge.

While local transmission of the Zika virus was never observed in Georgia during a recent outbreak, the risk of being exposed to the West Nile virus continues to be a threat. Last year, the Ga. Department of Public Health recorded 64 human cases of the virus and seven deaths.

The Keep Tift Beautiful board congratulates the University of Georgia Tifton Campus as this month's Commercial Beauty Spot of the Month.

Pictured is Dr. Joe West, assistant dean of the campus, which recently added new signage, new landscaping and completed facility renovations.