What Are Mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are fly-like, parasitic insects. Female mosquitoes feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals to produce healthy eggs. However, plant nectar is the primary food source for both male and female mosquitoes. They have a slender body, long legs, narrow wings, and an extended, tube-like mouthpart (proboscis) they use for feeding on blood and plant nectar. Many species of mosquitoes live in our area of Texas. Described below are two of the most common.

Aedes aegypti mosquito - Aedes aegypti has an abdomen that is dark brown to black, and they have white scales on their thorax that form a violin-like pattern. The tarsal segment on the hind legs has white bands, which gives their legs a striped appearance. Being able to survive for several months without water makes this species hearty and difficult to control. These mosquitoes are container breeders and can thrive in urban areas. 
 
Asian tiger mosquito - The black and white “tiger-striped” pattern on their body is what gives the Asian tiger (Aedes albopictus) mosquito their name. They also have a white stripe running down the middle of their heads and white banding on their legs. Unlike many other species of mosquitoes, Asian tigers are daytime biters and known for their aggressive nature and ability to move quickly.

Mosquito Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are mosquitoes dangerous?

Mosquitoes are most certainly a dangerous pest, posing significant health risks to people and animals. In fact, mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous insects in the world because of the significant diseases they spread. They are responsible for transmitting things like malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever in developing and tropical countries.

In the United States, the Asian tiger mosquito can spread the West Nile virus and encephalitis. The Aedes aegypti spreads illnesses such as the Zika virus, chikungunya, and dengue. Also, mosquitoes transmit potentially fatal parasitic heartworm to dogs. Along with the diseases they spread, their bites are extremely itchy, and excess itching may lead to secondary infections.

Why do I have a mosquito problem?

The hot, humid weather present most of the year in Texas allows mosquito populations to thrive. Mosquitoes live and breed outside and can become a problem on almost any property. They are especially attracted to land with standing water or near areas of standing water (marshes, ponds, lakes). Since their main source of food is plant nectar, properties with a lot of flowering vegetation also attract mosquitoes.

Where will I find mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes rest in tall grasses, in areas of dense vegetation, along fence lines, under trees, behind tree bark, and under decks and porches. Things like ponds, marshes, swamps, wetlands, flower gardens, or flowering trees attract mosquitoes. Container breeding mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti are drawn to standing water in things like buckets, old tires, wheelbarrows, trash cans, flower pots, and any other container that collects water. While they don’t often move indoors purposely, they do sometimes make their way inside while searching for food, coming in through torn screens and open windows and doors.

How do I get rid of mosquitoes?

Locally owned and family-operated, All-Safe Pest & Termite is the best choice to get rid of mosquitoes from your home or business. We offer fast response times and peace of mind knowing that your pest problems will be solved, and they won’t return. Our experienced professionals provide seasonal mosquito control services using the latest and most effective products to reduce mosquito numbers on your Dallas area property. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent mosquitoes in the future?

Prevent problems with mosquitoes by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
• Repair any torn window and door screens.
• Store all containers that collect water upside down.
• Fix low-lying areas on your property that collect rainwater.
• Maintain gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling in and around them.
• Keep the grass on your property cut short.
• Remove overgrown vegetation from the outside of your home.
• Outdoor lighting attracts mosquitoes. Switch out white outdoor lights for yellow or LED lights that are less attractive to mosquitoes and other insects.