| Scientific name | Culicidae (e.g. Aedes albopictus) |
|---|---|
| Group | Flies & Mosquitoes |
| Size | 3–6 mm (up to about 0.24 in) |
| Colors | Black, White and Gray |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Yard or patio, Near water and Lawn or grass |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Health risk |
How to identify it
The mosquito is a small member of the flies & mosquitoes group. Only one pair of flying wings; the hind pair is reduced to tiny knobs. Check for these three features:
- Long, needle-like mouthpart (proboscis)
- Scales along the wing veins and a slender body
- Asian tiger species has black-and-white striped legs
About this bug
A small, slender fly whose females bite to take blood for egg production. The Asian tiger mosquito is black with white stripes and bites aggressively during the day.
You'll usually find mosquitoes in yards and on patios, near water and in lawns and grass. They are most active in spring, summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Mosquito bites itch and, depending on the region, can transmit West Nile, dengue and other viruses.
Our rating: Health risk, meaning it can cause medically significant bites, stings or disease.
Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.
When you'll see mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: yard or patio, near water and lawn or grass.
About flies & mosquitoes
The mosquito is one of the flies & mosquitoes. Flies have only one pair of working wings; the second pair is reduced to small balancing knobs called halteres. They go through complete metamorphosis, and the larvae, called maggots, need moist organic material such as garbage, soil, drain film or standing water.
Fly problems are almost always breeding-site problems. Finding and removing the moist material where larvae develop works far better than swatting adults.
What to do about it
- Dump standing water weekly from pots, gutters, tires and toys
- Use an EPA-registered repellent such as DEET or picaridin
- Treat ponds or rain barrels with Bti dunks
Read the full guide: how to get rid of mosquitoes.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Crane Flies are larger, reaching 35 mm, while mosquitoes top out around 6 mm.
Size: Mosquitoes are larger, reaching 6 mm, while fungus gnats top out around 4 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a mosquito look like?
Long, needle-like mouthpart (proboscis). Adults measure 3–6 mm (up to about 0.24 in).
Does the mosquito bite or sting?
It can bite. It does not sting. Mosquito bites itch and, depending on the region, can transmit West Nile, dengue and other viruses.
Where do mosquitoes live?
Mosquitoes live in yards and on patios, near water and in lawns and grass.
When are mosquitoes most active?
Mostly in spring, summer and fall.