Say no pest

Category: Mosquitoes

  • Types of Mosquitoes in the U.S: Know the Biters!

    Types of Mosquitoes in the U.S: Know the Biters!

    Did you know not all mosquitoes are the same? There are more than 3000 types of mosquitoes species. Some bite during the day, while others come out at night and each type can carry different diseases. For example, Aedes mosquitoes bite in the day time and Culex mosquitoes usually bite after dark. The good news? You can protect your family by a few simple steps-

    1. Getting rid of mosquito breeding spots around your home.
    2. Just making sure there are no standing water in buckets, pots, and coolers.
    3. Always keep your surroundings clean.

    A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping these tiny troublemakers away and your loved ones safe and healthy!

    The most common types of mosquitoes in the U.S.

    1. Aedes
    2. Culex
    3. Anopheles genera

    Aedes Mosquitoes

    They are known for their aggressive biting habits, Aedes mosquitoes usually bite in the daytime and have black and white markings on their legs and bodies. They reproduce in flower pots in standing water. When its eggs are exposed to rain and the right temperature, they hatch quickly which leads to increase in their population.

    The female Asian tiger mosquito bites during the day in comparison to other mosquito species but their male specie do not bite.

    Diseases Caused by the bite of Aedes Mosquitoes-

    • Zika
    • Dengue
    • Chikungunya
    • Yellow Fever
    • West Nile
    • Eastern Equine Encephalitis

    House Mosquito

    House mosquitoes belong to the Culex mosquitoes species,  and are one of the most common species found in the U.S. and usually, they emerge at night. Their color is mostly light brown with white stripes and these are attracted to dirty as well as still water.

    They mostly prefer damp places and places like drains and birdbaths.

    Each Culex female lays between 50 to 400 eggs before they complete development within a span of 10 to 14 days. Standing water locations should receive attention from humans because Culex mosquitoes along with different mosquitoes spread diseases that affect human health.

    Diseases Caused by the bite of these types of mosquitoes-

    • West Nile virus
    • St. Louis encephalitis
    • Japanese encephalitis
    • Western equine encephalitis
    • Eastern equine encephalitis
    • Lymphatic filariasis

    Anopheles ( Malaria causing Mosquito)

    Anopheles mosquito is a Malaria causing mosquito.  These are dark brown or black in colour. Malaria mosquito’s stomach points upward. You can find Anopheles mosquitoes almost everywhere in the world but they are not a major threat in the U.S.

    Fun Fact- Malaria mosquitoes can lay their eggs in many different places. Female anopheles have the ability to lay thousands of eggs during their entire life.

    A list of Common Diseases Transmitted by Mosquitoes!

    Mosquitoes not only create nuisance but are also responsible for aggressive bites that spread mosquito-borne diseases. They can transmit deadly diseases that put your health at risk. Diseases that mosquitoes can carry include:

    • Chikungunya
    • Dengue Fever
    • Malaria
    • West Nile Virus
    • Western/Eastern Equine Encephalitis
    • Yellow Fever
    • Zika

    How Long Do Mosquitoes Live?

    The lifespan of mosquitoes depends on many factors like:

    Mosquito lifespan based on Sex-

      Male Mosquitoes: Males generally have the shortest lives, typically surviving only about 5–10 days. Their main purpose is to mate, after which they die soon after.

      Female Mosquitoes: Females live comparatively longer that is two to eight weeks under ideal conditions, and in some cases, they can even live up to two months or more. This longer lifespan allows them to lay multiple eggs and seek several blood meals throughout their lives.

      • Mosquito lifespan based on Species-
      • Aedes Mosquito live up to 20–40 days.
      • Culex Mosquito live up to 14–28 days.
      • Anopheles live up to 14–28 days.

      How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes at your property?

      The clear response to your question about removing mosquitoes centers on their detrimental effect on both health and comfort levels. These steps below help you stop diseases which mosquitoes spread:

      1. Immediately get rid of Still and Standing Water at your place – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Hence, keep gutters and drains clean.

      3. Clean your Yard Regularly – Cut the grass and trim bushes frequently because these are the places where the mosquitoes rest.

      4. Natural Methods that can help-

      • Use outdoor fans.
      • Plant mosquito fighting plants in your backyard.
      • Make use of mosquito traps.

      5.Professional Pest Control Service- In case mosquitoes are still bothering you, it is advisable to call a pest control professional to help you with some targeted treatments.

      Conclusion

      Acquiring knowledge about typical mosquito species present in America represents a small yet beneficial method for protecting your property and your loved ones against mosquito attack and their associated health risks.

      Filthy water accumulations that attract mosquitoes must receive prompt attention because these periods provide ideal chances to stop new generation reproduction. Dependable knowledge provides reassurance to people who want to protect themselves from mosquito attacks during outdoor activities within their yards and community parks

    1. Aedes mosquitoes in the U.S.

      Aedes mosquitoes in the U.S.

      The 3 types of Aedes Mosquitoes that exist in the U.S.-

      1. Aedes aegypti
      2. Aedes albopictus
      3. Aedes sollicitans

      Aedes aegypti

      Because Aedes aegypti mosquito causes Yellow Fever, it is commonly known as the yellow fever mosquito. This mosquito has black and white texture and targets both humans and animals during the day time.

      This mosquito has a violent behaviour and is known to transmit viruses, such as-

      •Zika

      •Dengue

      •Chikungunya

      •Yellow fever

      The eggs of Aedes aegypti mosquito have the ability to survive even in dry environment for a long-long time.

      These are also called Asian Tiger Mosquito. This mosquito shows aggressiveness in the daytime. This insect consumes blood from three different groups of hosts which include people and animals together with birds.

      Alboictus is known to transmit viruses, such as-

      • Encephalitis
      • Dengue (all four serotypes)
      • Yellow fever
      • Dog heartworm.
      • West Nile virus has also been detected in the east of U.S.

      Aedes sollicitans

      Aedes sollicitans is also called the Eastern Saltmarsh Mosquito. They have a rusty colour and banded legs. They become widespread after high tides and heavy rain and are found all year long when the weather is warm and humid. During the colder months their numbers are reduced.

      Aedes sollicitans normally bite in the early morning or late afternoon, but when disturbed during the day, females that are at rest will attack wholeheartedly.

      Females of this species can lay their eggs in different places such as-

      • Birdbaths
      • Flowerpots
      • and other similar containers.

      Common Characteristics of Aedes Mosquitoes

      Aedes mosquitoes demonstrate aggressive feeding behavior while seeking their blood meals between day-time hours. During each feeding period these mosquitoes target multiple hosts so they increase their chances to transmit diseases.

      The mosquitoes lay eggs in natural and artificial water containers such as tree holes, tires and buckets, etc. They lay eggs outside water and retains the ability to survive without water until the habitat becomes moist again.

      The complete life cycle needs around seven to ten days under conducive weather to proceed from egg to adult which promotes rapid population growth.

      The adaptive features of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes along with other Aedes species allow them to thrive in colder temperature environments.

      Aedes mosquitoes show aggressive bite habits and transmit multiple diseases due to their transmission ability which creates a major public health concern when mosquito infestations become prevalent.

      How To Protect Yourself From Their Bite

      • Apply repellents containing EPA registered ingredients.
      • Wear long sleeve clothes, socks and shoes to protect yourself.
      • Doors and windows at your house should be properly shut if you want to stop mosquitoes from entering.

      Life Cycle Of Aedes Mosquito

      1. Eggs Stage- The egg-laying process of female mosquitoes takes place in containers that retain water such as buckets and birdbaths alongside flowerpots and tree holes. The eggs which mosquito females place become exceptionally durable allowing them to survive in dry areas for months.

      When the eggs come in contact with water due to rain or when someone waters the plants, they hatch into larvae.

      2. Larvae Stage-Larvae live in water. These larvae look like tiny worms.They breathe via tubes at the surface and eat tiny stuff present in the water.The growth of these Larvae is fast.In about 5 days, they change into the next stage called the pupa.

      3. Pupa Stage- At this stage, the pupa stays in the water and doesnot move and it looks like curled up little commas. Before getting ready to come out, the adult mosquito spends 2-3 days maturing inside its cocoon.

      4. Adult Mosquito- At this stage, the mosquito comes out of the water and starts to fly! Adult females go looking for blood so they can lay more eggs. Male mosquitoes don’t bite, they feed on honeydrew and plant nectar.

      After obtaining blood through feeding, the female mosquito lays eggs before starting a new cycle.

      Total Time:

      From egg to adult can take as little as 7–10 days if the weather is warm and conditions are right. That’s why these mosquitoes multiply so quickly!

      Conclusion

      The aedes mosquito is an issue in the U.S. Therefore, knowing their appearance, understanding their life cycle, is important to get rid of them is an important step for your and your family’s safety.

    2. Anopheles Mosquitoes: Identification and Control

      Anopheles Mosquitoes: Identification and Control

      Anopheles mosquitoes are the one’s that spread malaria. Hence, this is an important mosquito species to know about.

      If you want to avoid mosquito bites and protect your space-

      • Know what Anopheles mosquitoes look like!
      • Understand when and how they are most active!
      • And learn simple steps to control or reduce their numbers!

      Not a pest control expert?, donot worry! Just knowing a bit about these mosquitoes can go a long way in keeping yourself and your family safe.

      This blog will help you understand anopheles malaria mosquito patterns in depth, covering their appearance, habits, what they eat, the life cycle of anopheles mosquito, and practical tips for how to get rid of anopheles mosquito.

      A Few Facts About Anopheles Mosquitoes-

      • Anopheles mosquitoes do not just cause malaria but are also responsible for causing other diseases like encephalitis, and more.They are easy to identify.
      • They lay their eggs in clean, and still water.
      • These mosquitoes are highly flexible.
      • Only female anopheles mosquitoes bite, and after a blood meal, they can lay hundreds of eggs in their lifetime.

      What Anopheles Mosquitoes Look Like (Appearance, Color, and Size)

      Anopheles mosquitoes are easy to spot. They are medium-sized and usually light brown in color. One thing that makes them stand out is their wings. They’re fully covered in brown scales and often have four dark spots. Anopheles wings don’t have shiny copper-colored tips.

      1. Female Anopheles mosquitoes- These are about 5 mm long, which is about the length of a grain of rice. Their wings are just about the same size.
      2. Male Anopheles mosquitoes- They are a little bigger, around 5.5 mm, and they have big, fluffy antennae that look like tiny feathers — that’s how you can tell them apart.

      Spot The Anopheles Mosquito via its Posture!

      Anopheles mosquitoes reveal themselves through their angled position while resting. Anopheles mosquitoes hold different body positions than other mosquitoes because they elevate their bodies instead of resting flat.

      Do Anopheles Mosquitoes Bite?

      Only the female Anopheles mosquito bites. Female Anopheles malaria mosquitoes need a blood meal to lay eggs. They bite during the night. However, males of this species do not bite. They consume plant juices and nectar. Although both sexes get their energy from plant nectar, only females have the unique mouthparts required to bite human or animal skin and obtain blood.

      Anopheles mosquito larvae obtain their sustenance from the organic substances together with algae and microorganisms that exist in their aquatic birth habitat. Pupal form consumes no food since it exists in a period of suspension which leads to adult metamorphosis.

      Life Cycle of Anopheles Mosquito

      Anopheles mosquito is a Malaria causing mosquito.  These are dark brown or black in colour. Malaria mosquito’s stomach points upward. You can find Anopheles mosquitoes almost everywhere in the world but they are not a major threat in the U.S.

      Fun Fact- Malaria mosquitoes can lay their eggs in many different places. Female anopheles have the ability to lay thousands of eggs during their entire life.

      The life cycle of anopheles mosquito

      1. Stage 1 (Egg): Females lay 50–200 eggs each time on a moist surface. The eggs float and hatch within 2–3 days in warm conditions.
      2. Stage 2 (Larva): Larvae live in water, floating parallel to the surface, and feed on organic particles. They shed four times before turning into pupae.
      3. Stage 3 (Pupa): Pupae remain in water but do not feed. After a few days, the adult mosquito appears.
      4. Stage 4 (Adult): Adults mate soon after emerging. Females take blood meals to produce eggs, while males feed on nectar.
      5. The life cycle of anopheles mosquito can take around 9 to 20 days. It depends on the weather.

      How to Get Rid of Anopheles Mosquito-

      1. Immediately get rid of Still and Standing Water at your place – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Hence, keep gutters and drains clean.

      3. Clean your Yard Regularly – Cut the grass and trim bushes frequently because these are the places where the mosquitoes rest.

      4. Natural Methods that can help-

      • Use outdoor fans.
      • Plant mosquito fighting plants in your backyard.
      • Make use of mosquito traps.

      5.Professional Pest Control Service- In case mosquitoes are still bothering you, it is advisable to call a pest control professional to help you with some targeted treatments.

      Final thoughts

      The malaria causing mosquito is a pest and public health concern in the U.S. Therefore, knowing their appearance, understanding their habits, and knowing how to get rid of them is an important step for your own health and safety.

    3. Confused Between Bed Bug Bites vs Mosquito Bites?

      Confused Between Bed Bug Bites vs Mosquito Bites?

      The appearance of itchy red skin spots during morning hours might confuse you between bed bug bites vs mosquito bites. When you know all about these blood feeding insects, it helps you stop their future attacks.

      Mosquitoes bite and feed on your blood when you are outdoors, mostly in the evening and at night. They bite quickly and fly away. These bites can show up on any part of your body that’s not covered by clothes.

      You will experience bed bug bites while sleeping because these pests emerge during nighttime to feed on human blood. Small blood-sucking bugs seek shelter inside your mattress and furniture from where they draw blood from your body. Bed bug bites on your arms back or neck and any other body areas that touch your sleeping bed.

      Difference between Bed Bug Bites vs Mosquito Bites

      It becomes essential to distinguish bed bug bites vs mosquito bites based on the way they look. The symptoms from mosquito bites comes immediately with itching and swelling along with one puffy red bump. Individuals commonly see these bites minutes after being outside and particularly during night time or while spending time near water.

      Determining when you have been bitten by bed bugs or mosquitos proves to be more challenging than other insect bites. Bed bug bites take either hours or entire days before you become aware of their presence after a bite occurs. These marks can be seen on the face, neck, arms and hands. The marks caused by bed bugs exhibit redness and swelling and they usually develop pustules. Bed bugs differ from mosquitoes because they do not transmit diseases although multiple scratches to their bites could lead to infection.

      Treatment for Bed Bug Bites vs Mosquito Bites

      Bed-Bug-Bites-vs-Mosquito-Bites

      The basic treatment for both bed bug and mosquito bites requires the following steps:

      • Wash the bitten area with soap and water while being gentle.
      • Use prescribed creams to treat itching and swelling.
      • Cold pack application serves as a treatment method which provides relief from swelling and discomfort for both bed bug and mosquito bites.
      • You should avoid scratching because it creates the risk of infection and you should wait for at least several days or longer.
      • Contact a professional if you detect any infection symptoms such as redness that worsens or the appearance of pus or increased warmth.

      Prevention: Keep The Bites Away!

      Prevention is the most effective way to avoid bed bug bites vs mosquito bites. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family-

      For Mosquitoes- You should eliminate all standing water from your house because it provides areas where bed bugs reproduce. Make sure that windows and door screens are installed properly and all holes need immediate repair. Long-sleeved clothing and pants should be worn when spending time outdoors during dusk hours and use  insect repellents during outdoor activities.

      For Bed Bugs: Check mattresses and box springs along with furniture for bed bug indications after every trip. Bedroom areas with limited clutter will reduce hiding places for pests. Protective mattress covers created to prevent bed bugs from entering your bed can be used as a preventive measure.

      What are the Signs that Tell Bed Bugs Are Present In Your Home?

      The first step for determining bed bugs as the cause of your unexplained bites should be your main concern after waking up. A bed bug infestation shows itself through the following indications:

      • The itchy bites that form clusters or lines especially when they appear on skin that was exposed during sleep.
      • Rust colour or red stains on sheets from dead bugs.
      • Small and pale-yellow eggs or eggshells near the ends of your mattress.
      • Black waste and the shedded skin of the bugs.
      • A sweet, musty and funky odor near your sleeping area. Live bed bugs can be founhiding inside folds or cracks of mattresses.

      Contact a pest control professional immediately because you have observed these signs which require an inspection and proper treatment.

      When to Contact a Doctor?

      bed-bug-bites-and-mosquito-bites-treatment

      The treatment of bed bug bites vs mosquito bites usually happens at home yet medical care becomes essential when specific symptoms appear!

      Prolonged swelling, blister formation or signs of infection appear on the bitten areas. Seek medical assistance if you develop a fever or experience unwellness after a bed bug bite and most importantly, see a doctor when you are unsure about what caused your bites to determine the diagnosis while eliminating other skin conditions.

      Conclusion

      Knowledge of the unique characteristics of bed bug bites vs mosquito bites enables proper treatment and prevention methods. The symptoms produced by these pests differ from each other and taking immediate bite-cleaning measures combined with not scratching will help maintain comfort. Guard your home against bed bugs as you sleep peacefully knowing how to differentiate between these pests and their respective bite symptoms.