Important Facts About Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are the least favorite insect in the world, responsible for millions of deaths every year globally.
In fact, nearly 700 million people contract mosquito-borne illnesses each year, causing more than one million deaths.
Common types of mosquito-borne diseases include malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika. Below are the most common FAQs and facts regarding mosquitoes and mosquito control.
Q: What mosquito species carries Zika virus?
A: The Aedes aegypti (ah-A-days eye-GYP-tee), also known as the yellow fever mosquito, is the scientific name for the pest that carries the Zika virus.
Q: What Attracts Mosquitoes?
A: Carbon dioxide gives insects the signal that blood is nearby, and since we exhale CO2, we make it easy for these pests to find us.
Q: How Many Mosquito Species Are There?
A: There are at least 2,700 known mosquito species in the world, with some reports as high as 3,000. There are only around 176 species that live in the U.S.
Mosquito Bites & Diseases
Q: Are Mosquito Dites Dangerous?
A: Mosquitoes are in fact the deadliest creatures on earth. They can carry dangerous diseases, and more deaths have been reported as a result of their bites than any other animal. Common types of mosquito-borne diseases include malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika.
Q: Do All Mosquitoes Bite?
A: Only female mosquitoes bite humans and mammals to obtain protein found in blood that is needed in order to lay their eggs.
Q: Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
A: As a biting mosquito fills itself with blood, it injects saliva into your skin. Proteins in the saliva trigger a mild immune system reaction that results in the characteristic itching and bump.
Q: What Diseases Do Mosquitoes Spread?
A: Mosquitoes can spread the following diseases:
- Chikungunya
- Dengue
- Encephalitis
- Malaria
- West Nile virus
- Yellow fever
- Zika virus
Mosquito Behavior & Habits
Q: What Do Mosquitoes Eat?
A: Female mosquitoes feed on the blood of mammals and humans. Males prefer flower nectar as their primary food source.
Q: Where Do Mosquitoes Live?
A: Mosquitoes live mostly outside—but they’ll live and breed wherever there’s water to lay eggs, and humans or pets to feed on.
Q: Where Do Mosquitoes Hide?
A: When not searching for a meal, mosquitoes in residential areas rest in shaded areas such as:
- Trees
- Creeks, sewer and storm drains
- Thick bushes, underbrush
- Tall grass
Q: When Are Mosquitoes Most Active?
A: Peak hours for mosquitoes are between dusk and dawn, but some species are active during the day.
Q: How Far Can Mosquitoes Fly?
A: Mosquitoes are short-distance flyers. They can only travel 100-200 feet at a time. Because of this, barrier mosquito treatments are optimal for mosquito control.
Q: When Is Mosquito Season?
A: The typical mosquito season runs from March through October, with some states and regions having mosquito problems year round.
Breeding season is usually July through September, while peak West Nile Virus season is usually not until late August through early September or even October in some areas. Planning ahead with a mosquito treatment plan is recommended.
Mosquito Reproduction
Q: Where Do Mosquitoes Reproduce?
A: Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, but it only takes about a cup of water for them to breed.
Even though you do not necessarily see standing water around your property, there are a variety of places where water can be stored where these pests can breed including:
- Bird baths
- Cars, truck beds
- Children’s playground equipment, toys
- Flower pots
- Garden hoses
- Gutters and downspouts
- Landscape statues
- Leaves, Mulch
- Old tires
- Puddles
Q: Where Do Mosquitoes Lay Eggs?
A: Mosquitoes typically lay their eggs in water, but eggs can survive in wet dirt, too. Most species prefer to lay eggs at the edge of water bodies against foliage, grass and mulch.
Q: How Long Is the Mosquito Life Cycle?
A: The mosquito life cycle from egg to adult can happen in as few as 7 to 8 days. If the water evaporates – or you pour it out – before the eggs develop, which usually takes about 7 to 10 days, the eggs will not develop completely into adults, and they will die.
Mosquito Prevention
Q: How Do I Prevent Mosquitoes?
A: Preventing bites is the best way to prevent Zika and other outbreaks. Take the following precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes:
- Avoid Dusk & Dawn Hours: Stay indoors during dusk and dawn and an hour before and after dusk and dawn.
- Clean Gutters & Downspouts: Make sure to clean gutters and downspouts regularly or cover with mesh to prevent leaves and debris from collecting and holding water.
- Empty Water Containers: Empty any possible outdoor containers that can hold water. Check small crevices where water can collect in small spaces.
- Replace Light Bulbs: Replace outdoor light bulbs with yellow bulbs that are less attractive to mosquitoes. Learn more about light and if it attracts mosquitoes.
- Wear Repellent & Cover Skin: Wear EPA-approved insect repellent along with long sleeve shirts and long pants.
Mosquito Control Methods
Question: Will a Fan Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Answer: Moving air created by fans may deter mosquitoes for a short time but won’t get rid of the insects entirely. The pests will return to bite when the fan stops running.
Question: Will Bleach, Vinegar or Peppermint Oil Kill or Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Answer: Bleach may control mosquito larvae in small water sources. But, bleach used in this manner can have adverse effects on residents and wildlife in the area.
Many people try to use strong-smelling household items, like vinegar, as a natural mosquito repellent. A vinegar and water solution may have some effect, but it is not enough to reliably repel insects.
Studies show that peppermint oil repels mosquitoes in certain doses. This essential oil can cause skin rashes and irritation if not used properly. Repellents work best in combination with a professional pest treatment plan.
Question: Is Mosquito Spraying and Fogging Safe?
Answer: Mosquito spraying by local governments or pest professionals is generally not harmful since mosquito control products are applied in low doses and must be used according to the directions on the product’s label. Residents should not take it upon themselves to spray for these insects, as pesticides can be harmful to the user and the environment when applied incorrectly.
