I think most states joke about mosquitoes being their state bird, and North Carolina is certainly a state that could make the insect their official bird. It’s been warm here for a while, and I’ve already gotten bites. Terminix has a line of AllClear mosquito “solutions” that looks interesting. Instead of using light to attract them and then zapping them, the AllClear Tabletop Mosquito Repeller emits an “all-natural, proven-effective blend of non-toxic, botanical oils that are safe around children and pets.” You don’t have to slather yourself in repellent, and you don’t have to listen to the unpleasant sound of frying insects during your picnic. The coverage area is 15′ X 15′. Each cartridge works for about 18 hours, and a set of batteries lasts about 8 hours. The AllClear Tabletop Mosquito Repeller is $14.99, and a pack of two replacement scented cartridges is $6.99. You can check out the other AllClear products at the Terminix link above.