Black and White mosquito motif
If normal mosquitoes aren’t bad enough, we now have a new species of blood-sucking insects to deal with. Asian tiger mosquitoes have invaded the United States and are increasing their territory.

Facts About Asian Tiger Mosquitoes

Where Are Asian Tiger Mosquitoes in the U.S.?

Originally from Southeast Asia, some reports say the invasive Asian Tiger Mosquito was first spotted in Houston, Texas, in 1987. Other experts say they were discovered in lucky bamboo plants shipped to California in 2001. Yet another report said they arrived in Hawaii in the late 19th century and made it to the mainland U.S. in 1985. Regardless of their origin point in the U.S., Asian Tiger Mosquitoes have spread to 26 states so far; including Florida, New York and even Maryland. While they prefer warmer states, they’ve also been found in colder states like Minnesota and Illinois. They like both urban and rural areas.

When Are Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Active?

Most types of mosquitoes come out at night and plague cookouts at twilight and later. The Asian tiger mosquito, though, flies during the day, meaning it can bother you during a wider range of activities or while just out doing everyday tasks.

What Do Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Look Like?

Asian tiger mosquitoes have a black body with a white stripe on the back. Silver-white bands cover their legs and thorax.

Are Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Aggressive?

Yes, Asian tiger mosquitoes are very aggressive. A quick brush off or swat won’t deter them. In fact, some say they’ll fly circles around you until they can land and bite.

Do Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Transmit Disease?

According to WebMD, Yes. In Asia they are known to carry West Nile fever, dengue fever, yellow fever and encephalitis, to name a few. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it’s been verified to be the potential host for five viruses in the U.S. Of those, encephalomyelitis and Cache Valley virus can infect humans. The other three viruses are a danger to dogs, cats, birds, etc., but not humans.

How Do Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Breed?

Much like regular mosquitoes but more persistently. Mosquitoes commonly found in the United States lay eggs in a sort of raft formation so that they can float on water, their preferred breeding ground. Asian tiger mosquitoes like water, too, but lay their eggs along the water’s edge. That can include surfaces like birdbaths, flower pots, children’s pools, buckets, etc. They’ve even laid eggs in tree holes. When the water is dumped or drained, the eggs, which can survive in both dry and cold weather because they can dry out and re-hydrate without harming the larvae, can stay viable for years until they hatch. A hard freeze can kill them, but if they can find shelter that’s somewhat warm then they can survive in cold states.

How Can I Avoid Asian Tiger Mosquito Bites?

  1. Eliminate standing water and water-filled containers. Scrub them when possible to remove any eggs that maybe have attached themselves.
  2. Clean your birdbaths, wading pools and gutters at least once a week.
  3. Limit outdoor activities during their most active time, which is early morning and late afternoon.
  4. Wear long sleeves, long pants, lightly colored clothes. The insect repellent DEET is also effective against them.
  5. Consider calling an exterminator.

 

Arrow Exterminates Mosquitoes

Avoid the aggravation and dangers of mosquitoes by calling Arrow Exterminating. Arrow will help you identify if you have a problem, explain our plan to eradicate your infestation, and give you the peace of mind you need. To get started, contact Arrow Exterminating today.

What You Need to Know About Tiger Mosquitoes Serving Long Island and surrounding areas

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