Mosquitoes

Culex species and others

One of the best known summer pests, mosquitoes breed in stagnant water or soft soil and can develop from egg to adult in 10 to 14 days.

How to Identify a Mosquito

Color

Varies; Pale brown with whitish stripes across abdomen

Size

1/4" - 3/8"

Shape

Narrow Oval

# of Legs

Antennae

True

Primary Risks

Structural DamageWater Damage

Additional Mosquito Identification Info

While their color varies, typically mosquitoes are pale brown with whitish stripes across the abdomen. The most common species of mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn, preferring stagnant nutrient-rich water.

Understanding Mosquitoes

What Attracts Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are attracted to dark and bold colors, floral scents, warmer body temperatures, pregnant people, and exhaled carbon dioxide.

What Do Mosquitoes Eat?

Female mosquitoes suck human blood and male mosquitoes feed on plant nectars.

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Female mosquitoes bite humans to drink their blood and gain the nutrients needed to lay eggs. The mosquito uses the sharp tip of its proboscis to pierce the skin and draw blood up through its mouth. During this process, the mosquito injects saliva containing an anticoagulant to stop the blood from clotting.

Where Do Mosquitoes Lay Their Eggs?

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water sources such as storm drains, old tires, children’s wading pools and birdbaths. They can develop from egg to adult in 10 to 14 days.

How Can You Prevent Mosquitoes?

Eliminate or reduce mosquito breeding sites by replacing all standing water at least once a week. This includes bird baths, ponds and unfiltered pools. Remove unneeded vegetation or trash from around any standing water sources that cannot be changed, dumped or removed. Introduce mosquito-eating fish such as gambusia, green sunfish, bluegills and minnows to standing water. Screen windows, doors and other openings with mesh. Avoid going outdoors when and where mosquitoes are most active: during dusk or dawn. Use insect repellent containing picaridin or DEET on exposed skin, according to label directions.