Asian Tiger Mosquitoes

Description

The Asian tiger mosquito has very distinctive markings and is easily identifiable by even a casual observer. It will bite as often during broad daylight as near dawn or dusk. This mosquito is a "container breeder" which will deposit its eggs in almost any type of natural or artificial container which will hold water. The Asian tiger mosquito has a limited flight range and is most often encountered near its breeding habitat. This mosquito can transmit diseases such as dengue, eastern equine encephalitis and dog heartworm. It is also a potential vector of St. Louis and LaCrosse encephalitis viruses.

Biology And Behavior

• Adult females are approximately 1/4 of an inch in length.

• Both adult males and females are covered with shiny black scales with silver or white bands on their legs and dotted lines on their abdomens.

• Its most distinctive characteristic is a striking band of silver or white scales down its thorax.

• Mosquito larvae can be found in artificial containers such as tires, flower pots, buckets, trash receptacles, ornamental ponds, bird baths, pet watering dishes, clogged guttering and abandoned cups and cans.

• Mosquito larval development may also occur in natural containers such as tree holes and leaf axils.

• Asian tiger mosquitoes may share their breeding habitats with other mosquito species.

• In temperate climates such as ours, this mosquito overwinters in the egg stage.

Asian Tiger Mosquito Prevention Tips

• Drain areas of standing water or treat with an appropriately labeled mosquito larvacide.

• Keep grass cut short and eliminate dense vegetation which serves as resting sites for adult mosquitoes.

• Install or repair screen doors and windows to keep mosquitoes outdoors.

• Use an insect repellant containing DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) on exposed skin and thin clothing when outside.

• When weather permits, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks outdoors.

• Check with your local government to see if there is a community mosquito abatement program in your area.

• Organize neighborhood cleanup days to pick up abandoned containers in parks and alleyways and clean up vacant lots.

Action's Mosquito Control Services

• Residential mosquito control 

• Commercial mosquito abatement services

• Community-wide abatement programs

• One-time mosquito treatments for events