Types of Mosquitoes in NYC
Depending on where you live in New York, you are going to be in close proximity to anywhere between 40 and 70 mosquito species. All these mosquitoes feed off of a variety of different hosts, but fortunately, only two prefer humans as their food source and lay their eggs in populated areas.
Despite this limited number, these mosquitoes are well-known vector pests, meaning they can transmit mosquito-borne illnesses in addition to their annoying bites. With mosquito season already starting in NYC, knowing the characteristics and how to protect yourself from these biting pests will help keep you and your family safe this summer.
Characteristics of NYC Mosquitoes
When you get a mosquito bite in NYC, the two local mosquito species that are most likely the culprits are either the common house mosquito or the Asian tiger mosquito. The mosquitoes have several different characteristics that mean you may need to take different precautions to avoid bites from each type of mosquito:
- Appearance – The common house mosquito is light brown in color, including its wings and proboscis, and has darker colored bands on its abdomen. The Asian Tiger mosquito is black with white stripes over its body.
- Active Time – Asian Tiger mosquitoes are most active during sunlight hours with activity tapering off in the evening. The common house mosquito is most active immediately after sunset and in the following hours.
- Breeding Habitats – The house mosquito lays its eggs in rafts of approximately 100 directly in water. The Asian Tiger mosquito will lay its eggs on dry areas that will flood when it rains, giving the eggs a chance to hatch and larva to grow. Both mosquitoes are considered container mosquitoes since their preferred breeding grounds are in containers that collect standing water rather than natural areas of freshwater.
- Illnesses – The common house mosquito is the leading spreader of West Nile virus in NYC, although the Asian tiger mosquito can also spread West Nile. The Asian tiger mosquito is also a vector for Zika virus, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya fever, as well as a few other mosquito-borne illnesses.
Because of the different viruses these mosquitoes can carry, it is helpful to be cautious about mosquito bites throughout the day.
Mosquito treatments in NYC from 24-Hour Pest Control is another solution that works against both mosquitoes. We apply treatment around the areas where mosquitoes are most active, reducing the chance of a bite and a mosquito-borne illness while significantly increasing your comfort. Contact us to avoid dealing with mosquitoes at your property this summer. Call us today (800) 456-8400
