Mosquito

Mosquitoes are small, flying insects responsible for more human illness and death worldwide than any other animal. In the United States, they are most active from late spring through early fall, with more than 200 species identified across the country. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, and even a bottle cap's worth can be enough to support a new generation. They are vectors for serious diseases including West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and - in certain regions - Zika and dengue. Effective mosquito management requires a combination of source reduction, barrier treatments, and personal protection.

Species Covered

Species Groups

Common Traits

Mosquitoes are two-winged insects in the family Culicidae, and only females bite - they require blood proteins to develop their eggs. They locate hosts using carbon dioxide, body heat, and chemical compounds in human sweat. Most species are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, though some species like the Asian tiger mosquito bite aggressively during daylight hours.

Species in This Category

Aedes Mosquitoes

2 species

Aedes mosquitoes include the Asian tiger mosquito and the yellow fever mosquito, two of the most medically important mosquito species in the world.

Culex Mosquitoes

2 species

Culex mosquitoes are the most common mosquitoes in the United States and the primary vector for West Nile virus.

Anopheles Mosquitoes

2 species

Anopheles mosquitoes are the only mosquitoes capable of transmitting malaria.

Gallinipper Mosquitoes

1 species

The gallinipper is a large, aggressive mosquito species notable for its size, which is several times larger than common mosquitoes.

Floodwater Mosquitoes

2 species

Floodwater mosquitoes encompass several species whose eggs hatch in response to flooding events including heavy rains, irrigation, and snowmelt.

All Mosquito

Asian Tiger MosquitoAedes albopictus

Yellow Fever MosquitoAedes aegypti

Common House MosquitoCulex pipiens

Southern House MosquitoCulex quinquefasciatus

Common Malaria MosquitoAnopheles quadrimaculatus

GallinipperPsorophora ciliata

Inland Floodwater MosquitoAedes vexans

Dark Rice Field MosquitoPsorophora columbiae

Eastern Saltmarsh MosquitoAedes sollicitans

Western Encephalitis MosquitoCulex tarsalis

Signs of Infestation

Frequent bites, especially during dawn, dusk, or when near shaded vegetation
High-pitched buzzing near the ears during evening hours
Standing water in gutters, plant saucers, birdbaths, or other containers
Clusters of mosquitoes resting in shaded, sheltered areas during the heat of the day
Wriggling larvae visible in stagnant water sources around the property

Prevention

The most effective mosquito prevention strategy begins with eliminating standing water where they breed. Even small amounts of stagnant water in clogged gutters, flowerpot saucers, old tires, and low spots in landscaping can produce hundreds of mosquitoes per week. Combining source reduction with professional barrier treatments and personal protective measures creates multiple layers of defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do mosquitoes seem to bite some people more than others?

Research has shown that mosquitoes are attracted to specific chemical profiles in human skin and sweat, as well as higher carbon dioxide output. People with type O blood, higher body temperatures, and those who have recently exercised tend to be bitten more frequently. Genetics play a significant role - some people simply produce compounds that mosquitoes find more attractive.

What diseases can I get from mosquitoes in the U.S.?

West Nile virus is the most widespread mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, with cases reported in nearly every state. Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), though rarer, has a high fatality rate. In southern states and U.S. territories, locally transmitted dengue and Zika cases have also been documented.

Do bug zappers work for mosquitoes?

Bug zappers are largely ineffective against mosquitoes. Studies have shown that the vast majority of insects killed by UV zappers are harmless or beneficial species, not mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are primarily attracted to carbon dioxide and body chemistry, not light. CO2 traps are more effective, but professional barrier treatments remain the most reliable option.

How far do mosquitoes travel from where they breed?

Most common mosquito species stay within one to three miles of their breeding site, and many stay much closer - within a few hundred yards. This means that standing water on or immediately adjacent to your property is the most likely source of the mosquitoes biting you. Addressing breeding sites within your own yard can make a dramatic difference.

How often should mosquito barrier treatments be applied?

Professional barrier treatments typically last three to four weeks, depending on weather conditions, rainfall, and the specific product used. Most homeowners on seasonal mosquito programs schedule treatments monthly from late spring through early fall. Your technician can recommend a schedule based on your local mosquito season and property conditions.

Are professional mosquito treatments safe for my family and pets?

Yes, when applied by a licensed professional according to label instructions. Modern barrier treatments target mosquito resting areas in vegetation and shaded zones using products that dry within minutes. Technicians will advise you to keep people and pets away from treated areas until the product has fully dried, which typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Need Help With Mosquito?

If you're seeing signs of mosquito in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.

Schedule a Free Inspection Call (417) 238-0550