Category Archives: Mosquito Control

Ahh, mosquitoes. If you’re not a fan of these pesky pests, we understand your frustration. From buzzing in our ears to leaving itchy bites on our skin, they sure know how to make their presence known.

But if you’re someone who is fascinated by them (like your local pros at Mosquito Joe®!), you might be interested to know that some 46 million years ago, mosquitoes weren’t much different in size than they are today. With well over 3,500 species of mosquitoes in the world, it raises the question: what is the biggest mosquito species out in the wild?

The Australian Elephant Mosquito (Toxorhynchites speciosus)

When you think of Australian wildlife, you probably picture some of the world’s most enormous creatures. From large crocodiles to spiders that look like they jumped out of a horror movie and some of the biggest winged rodents you would ever encounter, it’s no surprise Australia is also home to the world’s largest mosquito species, the Australian elephant mosquito.

Everything You Need to Know About Australian Elephant Mosquitoes

Australian elephant mosquitoes are one of the largest mosquito species in the world, with adults growing up to 1½ inches in length. Sure, on paper, that may seem relatively small, but considering the most common mosquitoes are between 0.15 and 0.4 inches long, with some less than 0.1 inches long, it’s easy to see why they rank as the world’s largest mosquitoes. Their elongated bodies and slender legs stand out from other mosquito species – especially when you add in their 4-inch wingspan.

In addition to their size, elephant mosquitoes are known for their striking appearance and often come in a variety of colors and patterns, featuring blue, white, or gold across their bodies. How fancy!

A Friendly Mosquito?

You can breathe a sigh of relief because there’s no need to worry about the biggest mosquito in the world biting you. Despite their intimidating presence, Australian elephant mosquitoes do not feed on human blood. Instead, they sweetly sustain themselves by feeding on plant sap or flower nectar.

While the Australian elephant mosquito is predominantly native to its namesake continent, it can also be found in southeastern parts of the U.S., like Kansas and Oklahoma. These mosquitoes thrive in damp habitats, including wetlands, swamps, or water-filled containers.

Elephant mosquitoes often choose areas such as tree holes, discarded tires, or old flower pots to lay their eggs. They fly in a counterclockwise pattern to deposit their eggs once they have found a safe place. Although adult elephant mosquitoes are herbivores, their larvae are cannibals, preying on each other as well as the larvae of other aquatic species or nearby bacteria and algae.

Since these larvae can eat thousands of other larvae daily, scientists have tried introducing elephant mosquitoes as control agents for other dangerous mosquito species that carry diseases. However, this conservation effort has been met with limited success.

Other Contenders in the Mosquito Size War

The Gallinipper Mosquito

Although elephant mosquitoes are the biggest mosquito in the world, the Gallinipper mosquito is often called the “monster” mosquito as it’s the largest biting mosquito in the U.S. You don’t want these guys snacking on you – their bite contains salvia with an anticoagulant that can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.

Their nickname is an appropriate moniker as the Gallinipper mosquito ranges from about ½ to 1 inches in size, with a wingspan of up to 9mm. On top of that, they can fly up to 20 miles per hour, which is as fast as a coyote!

Despite having the title of the largest blood-sucking mosquito found in the U.S., this species isn’t known for carrying mosquito-borne diseases. However, you will want to watch out for this pest if you live in eastern states, South Dakota, or Texas.

The Asian Tiger Mosquito

Another aggressive mosquito you should be wary of is the Asian tiger mosquito. They made their way to the U.S. from Asia in the 1980s and can be found in parts of California. Featuring distinct black-and-white patterns on their bodies, they can also grow roughly 0.08 and 0.39 inches long, with males averaging 20% smaller than females.

Known for being a particularly aggressive and feisty biter, they’re much more active during the day and prefer areas with lots of shade. They’re commonly found in much more Southeastern regions of the United States, from Texas to New Jersey.

Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes, Big or Small

Protecting yourself from mosquitoes is essential, whether it’s the world’s biggest mosquito or your everyday house pest. Besides their annoying bite, they can also carry harmful diseases like the West Nile virus.

Rather than dealing with these issues on your own, enlist the help of Mosquito Joe. Known for offering the best mosquito control in the business, you can also count on us for a range of other pest control services. With our support, our local service professionals can help you fight your mosquito problem 24/7, thanks to our automatic mosquito misting system.

And because we stand by our word, you can count on our Neighborly Done Right Promise™, which means everything we do is completed to your total satisfaction. Even small mosquitoes can cause big problems for you. Don’t let them ruin your outdoor fun; call your local pest control pros at Mosquito Joe and request a free quote today!

We all know that for a majority of the species that inhabit our planet, there are distinct differences between males and females. Aside from the obvious differences, there are also some unique characteristics that distinguish males from females. Take the female mosquito for example. These feisty ladies are in a category all their own.  

• Females can live up to five months or longer, but the average female mosquito lifespan is six weeks.
• Only female mosquitoes bite.
• Females create a higher-pitched sound than their male counterparts.
• They can lay up to 300 eggs at a time!
• Their saliva acts as a local anesthetic, so you don’t feel them biting.
• When a female mosquito has a blood meal, her stomach expands and can hold up to three times her body weight in blood (yuck!). 
• They beat their wings up to 500 times per second to attract a mate (you had me at hello). 

 Want answers to some common questions about female mosquitoes? Keep reading to learn how you can avoid becoming their next snack.  

What’s the Difference Between a Male and Female Mosquito? 

One of the most striking differences between male and female mosquitoes is size. Females are larger than males, but males appear bushier due to the fine hairs, called flagella, on their antennae. Males use their flagella to hear the female buzzing, which helps them find a mate. The female’s less bushy antennae contain odor receptors. This helps her detect a blood host, which she needs to reproduce.  

While both female and male mosquitoes have a proboscis, which is a pointed mouth part, only the female proboscis is strong enough to pierce the skin and suck blood. Females are aggressive and seek out animals and humans for blood. On the contrary, males actively avoid any human contact. A male mosquito’s primary interest is finding a mate. 

Depending on the species, the female mosquito will typically live longer than the male. The average lifespan of a female is six weeks, while male-only live about one to two weeks. 

Related Topic: What Do Male Mosquitoes Eat?  

Why Do Female Mosquitoes Bite?  

Female mosquitoes bite animals and humans to get a blood meal after mating with a male. The nutrients and protein from blood are the perfect prenatal supplement, enabling the mosquito to lay her eggs. Female mosquitoes can bite within two days of reaching their adult stage. Their flagella (antennae hairs) help them find the mammals they can feed on. They also have receptors for heat, sweat, and human breath (CO2), which help direct the insects to the next blood meal.  

The Female Mosquito Is Not a Parasite—Why? 

Are mosquitoes parasites? The female mosquito is not considered a parasite because it does not require or live on a host—it only feeds on the blood. A parasite is a creature that cannot live/breed without completely depending on another being. Therefore, mosquitos are not considered parasites just as other predatory insects and animals are not parasites. Unlike a parasite, the female mosquito drops in for a quick meal and doesn’t hang out very long—just enough time to get the necessary nutrients she requires. 

Related Topic: New Species of Mosquito Brings a New Threat  

Do Female Mosquitoes Buzz?  

Yes, female mosquitoes make a buzzing sound that happens when they rapidly beat or vibrate their wings to attract a mate. The resulting sound is that familiar high-pitched buzzing that helps you realize a mosquito is nearby, usually before you see it.  

Bye, Girl 

Although female mosquitoes are fascinating and have some cool abilities, you don’t have to get up close and personal to appreciate their unique characteristics. And you certainly don’t want them at any backyard gatherings. To keep mosquitoes and other pests away from your outdoor fun, call your local pest control pros at Mosquito Joe. We offer natural and other barrier sprays that help keeps mosquitoes and other pests at bay for up to 21 days. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us at 1-855-275-2563 or visit us online. 

What to Know About “Skeeter Syndrome”—The Mosquito Bite Allergy

Have you experienced an allergic reaction to a mosquito bite? For most people, a mosquito bite is itchy and uncomfortable. But some people suffer from Skeeter Syndrome, a condition that involves a severe inflammatory reaction to mosquito bites that can linger for several days.

Research indicates that 70 to 90 percent of people with a mosquito allergy have an immediate reaction to a bite, while 55 to 65 percent have a delayed allergic reaction that may lead to blistering lesions, hives, joint swelling, and fever. Though it’s rare, some people with Skeeter Syndrome can have potentially life-threatening symptoms. Learn the signs of a mosquito bite allergy, and explore the steps you can take to mitigate them.

Mosquito Bite Allergy Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a mosquito bite allergy include:

• Painful bites that feel warm to the touch
• Large areas of itching
• Blisters and lesions
• Bruises near the bite site
• Inflammation of the lymph system
• Hives, welts, or swelling near the bite

Can you develop an allergy to mosquito bites? It’s possible to develop Skeeter Syndrome suddenly, even if you have not previously experienced adverse reactions to bites. The reason for developing the allergy is unknown, but it has been linked to an autoimmune reaction to enzymes in the mosquito’s saliva.

How to Treat Severe Mosquito Allergy

Suffering a life-threatening reaction to a mosquito bite is rare. However, a more severe allergy may lead to anaphylaxis, a condition characterized by throat swelling, faintness, and wheezing. If you think you’re experiencing anaphylaxis, it’s important to seek emergency medical attention immediately.

For other severe mosquito allergy symptoms like hives, lesions, fever, and inflammation, your doctor may recommend the following treatments:

• Ice applied to the affected area
• Topical steroids
• Prescription oral steroids like Prednisone
• Oral antihistamines, including Zyrtec, Allegra, or Xyzal

Does allergy medicine work for mosquito bites? Sometimes. While over-the-counter medications may ease allergic reactions to mosquito bites, it’s important to get a treatment plan from a professional if you’re experiencing a severe mosquito allergy. Consulting your primary care physician, and likely getting a referral to an allergist, is your best course of action.

Related Topic: Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites

What Else Can You Do About Hypersensitivity to Mosquito Bites?

Like any allergy, the best way to minimize risk is to avoid exposure. One way to mitigate the risk of a mosquito bite reaction is to take a proactive approach. Wear protective, light-colored clothing when outside and spend most of your outdoor time in a backyard screened enclosure. However, if you would rather enjoy the outdoors without limitations, use mosquito repellants, remove potential mosquito breeding areas and habitats from your property, and contact your local pest control pros at Mosquito Joe.

Mosquito Joe offers pest control services that are designed to help you enjoy more time outdoors, including a natural barrier spray or a permanent misting system that can help reduce exposure to mosquitoes and other pests. To learn more, call us at 1.855.275.2563 or visit us online today!

Protecting babies from mosquitoes is important for their health and comfort, but it’s hard to determine which repellents are safe to use. Many store-bought insect repellents list DEET (diethyltoluamide) as the active ingredient. Others contain picaridin as an alternative. Both are considered safe for children over two months old when used as directed. But there are so many types of repellents out there with various added ingredients. Here’s how to navigate which product is right for your child.   

The Right Mosquito Repellent for Babies

Sprays may not be the best choice for babies. (You can’t just ask them to hold their breath while you spray!) Fortunately, there’s a variety of formulations, including lotions, patches, wipes, balms, and clip-on devices, that are available at most retail outlets. DEET products have been available for public use since 1957. They have a long history of safe use and are considered by many experts to be the most effective at repelling mosquitoes. Look for lower concentrations of DEET, and never use products that have more than 30 percent DEET on babies. Higher concentrations are not more effective at repelling bugs, but their protection lasts longer. A 10 percent DEET formula works for about two hours, while a 30 percent one offers roughly five hours of protection. Picaridin is a synthetic compound derived from Piperine, the plant-based chemical that gives black pepper its strong flavor. It was developed in the 1980s but has only been used in the U.S. since 2005. It is non-toxic and non-greasy, and it doesn’t damage plastics or fabrics like DEET might. (Side note: Unlike DEET products, picaridin is not considered to be harmful to pets, although this hasn’t been fully researched.) 

When it comes to mosquito repellents for babies, parents may be drawn to natural options made from essential oils. There are some essential oil products on the market that are considered safe when used as directed. Just avoid oil of lemon eucalyptus, which is potentially harmful to young children. You can also make homemade mosquito repellents for babies. Be aware that essential oils typically need to be diluted with a carrier oil (coconut or jojoba oil, for example) or other substance before using, and essential oils may irritate sensitive skin. 

Related content: How to Keep Mosquitoes Away from Babies 

Products to Avoid

Besides wondering, “Can I put mosquito repellent on my baby?” parents also worry about using the wrong product, especially if it has atypical ingredients. These guidelines should help you sort things out: 

• Review product warnings, and follow package directions exactly. 
• Avoid using “extra” or “maximum-strength” formulas. Use the lowest concentration available.  
• Never use products with more than 30 percent DEET on children.  
• If using products with DEET, limit application on your child to once a day. 
• Do not use items that contain oil of lemon eucalyptus on children under three years old. 
• Skip wrist-band repellents, due to risks of accidental choking and ingestion of residue. 
• Avoid using candle-style bug repellents around babies. The fumes may hurt sensitive lungs. 
• Do not use combination sunscreen–insect repellent products. Although convenient, sunscreen requires liberal applications throughout the day, which leads to excess exposure to the insect-repelling ingredients.    

Where to Apply and Not Apply 

• Avoid applying products near your baby’s eyes or mouth. 
• Skip applying to their hands and feet, too. These tiny appendages often end up in little mouths! 
• Only apply sprays to exposed skin and over clothing. Do not apply repellent underneath clothing or to large areas of your child’s body. 
• Never spray near a baby’s face. 
• Avoid applying products on cuts or irritated skin. 
• If using patches or clip-on devices, be sure they are attached out of your baby’s reach.
   

No matter how devoted you are to keeping bugs at bay, you can’t prevent every mosquito bite! When the inevitable bite happens, wash your baby’s skin with soap and water, and soothe it with a cold compress or a paste of baking soda and water. Check out these treatment tips from our Mosquito Joe® experts to learn more. 

Other At-Home Solutions to Prevent Mosquito Bites

Perhaps the easiest solution of them all is getting professional mosquito barrier spray treatments from your local Mosquito Joe. Our trained and certified technicians apply specialized formulas that begin working immediately and keep working for 21 days. We offer both traditional and natural treatment options for your yard. Schedule service online or call 1-855-275-2563 to get started today. 

The obnoxious drone of a mosquito in your ear. The itch and swell of a bite on your arm. The spread of disease. Are mosquitoes good for anything other than this? In fact, why do mosquitoes exist? 

While it may seem that these bugs are just menaces, they do fit into the larger ecosystem. Learn about a mosquito’s role and the reasons scientists and pest control specialists work to eliminate some types.  

What Is the Point of Mosquitoes?

Like other insects, mosquitoes are part of the food chain. Fish, frogs, turtles, and aquatic insects eat mosquito nymphs. Birds, bats, spiders, and other animals eat adult mosquitoes. Some species of mosquitoes are also pollinators. These insects can carry diseases, which is certainly a negative “point” of their existence.  

Related Content: What Eats Mosquitoes? 

How Long Have Mosquitoes Existed?

These insects have existed for 100 to 200 million years. Many types of mosquitoes have been preserved in amber, allowing humans to study their prehistoric existence. To put it simply, they’re extremely resilient!  

Why Do Scientists and Pest Control Experts Try to Eliminate Mosquitoes?

Why do humans want to kill mosquitoes in some cases? Well, they want to reduce the types of mosquitoes that cause significant harm to humankind. More than 400 species of mosquitoes carry devastating diseases like dengue and malaria. That’s why there are global scientific efforts to control mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti, using biotechnology and other suppression techniques.  

Related Content: What Diseases Do Mosquitoes Carry? 

What Would Happen If Mosquitoes Went Extinct?

If mosquitoes went extinct all at once, there would likely be noticeable consequences for the broader ecosystem. Many animals would need to adapt their food sources quickly. However, a mass extinction of all types of mosquitoes is highly improbable. Gradual extinctions are marked by ongoing adaptation of the ecosystem, which is the more probable scenario if mosquitoes were to die off. In other words: When an extinction is gradual, other life forms find a way to keep going.  

Mosquitoes Make Bad Neighbors

Mosquitoes have a purpose, but that doesn’t mean you have to be neighbors. You can control mosquitoes in your yard to reduce your chances of contracting vector-borne illnesses and to enjoy your property itch-free. You can do this by manually removing mosquito habitats (e.g., standing water) and by contacting your local Mosquito Joe®. Learn about our mosquito barrier spray treatments, and book online or call 1-855-275-2563 to get started.