Pale brown with whitish
stripes across abdomen; narrow
oval shape; 1/4- to 3/8-inch. Females
are easily recognized by long thin proboscis, or mouthparts, extending
from the
head.
Habitat
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water
sources such as
storm drains, old tires, children’s wading pools and birdbaths. They
are one of
the best known and most detested summer pests. Female mosquitoes bite
humans
and suck our blood, leaving behind welts and itching. While the United
States
is fairly free of most mosquito-borne diseases, encephalitis remains a
problem,
most notably the potentially fatal West Nile
Virus.
Diet
Female mosquitoes
suck our blood. Male
mosquitoes feed
on plant nectars.
Insect control:
mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, so
avoid
going outdoors during those times. Use insect repellent containing DEET
on
exposed skin whenever or wherever mosquitoes are likely to bite. To
eliminate
or reduce mosquito breeding sites, replace all standing water at least
once a
week. This includes bird baths, ponds and unfiltered pools. Remove
unnecessary
vegetation and any trash from around standing water sources that cannot
be
eliminated. Make sure screens are in place on all doors, windows and
other
openings.
