Gallinipper
Psorophora ciliata
Also known as: Shaggy-Legged Gallinipper
The Gallinipper is one of the largest mosquito species in North America. Its enormous size and aggressive biting behavior make it unmistakable. It breeds in temporary pools created by heavy rains and flooding. While alarming, it is not a significant disease vector.
Identification
Size
12-25 mm (one of the largest mosquitoes in the US)
Color
Dark brown to black with hairy legs and speckled wings
Key Trait
Extremely large size - up to five times bigger than common mosquitoes; hairy legs; aggressive biter that can bite through light clothing.
Behavior & Habitat
Aggressive daytime and nighttime biter. Can bite through light clothing. Breeds in temporary flood pools. Larvae are predatory, feeding on other mosquito larvae.
Habitat: Temporary flood pools, ditches, and rain-filled depressions in fields and wooded areas. Adults range widely from breeding sites.
Diet: Female feeds aggressively on large mammals including humans; larvae prey on other mosquito larvae.
Signs of Infestation
- Unusually large mosquitoes biting through clothing
- Massive mosquito emergence after heavy rains or flooding
Risks & Damage
Painful bites that can cause significant swelling, but not a major disease vector.
Prevention Tips
- 1.Drain temporary standing water after heavy rains
- 2.Wear protective clothing in affected areas
- 3.Use DEET-based repellents during outbreaks
Why DIY Treatment Often Falls Short
Gallinippers breed in temporary flood waters across wide areas, making targeted treatment impractical for homeowners.
Professional Treatment
Professional treatment focuses on larviciding of accessible temporary flood pools and barrier treatments around the property perimeter. Large-scale outbreaks may require community abatement efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can gallinippers get?
Do they carry diseases?
When do they appear?
Need Help With Gallinipper?
If you're seeing signs of gallinipper 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.
At a Glance
- Category
- Mosquitoes
- Scientific Name
- Psorophora ciliata
- Size
- 12-25 mm (one of the largest mosquitoes in the US)
- Color
- Dark brown to black with hairy legs and speckled wings
- Key Trait
- Extremely large size - up to five times bigger than common mosquitoes; hairy legs; aggressive biter that can bite through light clothing.
- Regions
- Southeast, South Central, Mid Atlantic
- Threat Level
- Low
- Risk Types
- healthnuisance
- Seasonal Activity
- MarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJanFebnonelowmoderatehighpeak