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What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?

There are more than 3,000 distinct species of mosquitoes in the world. For the most part, they look similar, and have many similar characteristics:

  • Adult mosquitoes are just ¼ – ½ inch long and weigh less than 2.5 mg
  • Most species of mosquitoes found in the U.S. are gray or brown in color. Some have white stripes, and most are covered in iridescent scales that look like hair
  • All mosquitoes have two long wings, slender bodies that rest in a “humpback” position, and long legs
  • Mosquitoes have a long proboscis, which is the long appendage that extends from the face. It’s a mouth, and it’s the part used to pierce your skin when they bite you
a detailed side view of a mosquito

Mosquito or another insect?

Sometimes it’s easy to mistake a mosquito for another insect, like a crane fly.

Mosquitoes have two unique body parts that distinguish them from other bugs: scale-covered wings that give them a fringe-like appearance, and their beak-like proboscis. Another way to identify mosquitoes easily is to look at their size. Mosquito bodies are very small. 

If you’re not sure, a professional pest control technician can take a look and tell you exactly what you’re dealing with.

Other Bugs That Look Like Mosquitoes

Crane flies, midges, gnats, and mayflies are frequently mistaken for mosquitoes. Here’s how they differ:

  • Crane flies: also known as mosquito hawks, but unfortunately, no, they don’t eat mosquitoes. They basically look like a giant mosquito (they can grow to be twice the size), but they’re harmless
  • Mayflies: Mayflies have huge upward slanting wings and no proboscis. Much larger than mosquitoes, they do not bite or sting
  • Midges/gnats: Midges and gnats usually are found in large swarms and lack a proboscis. They are related to mosquitoes, but do not bite and do not transmit disease

Mosquito Species Found on Long Island

In the United States, there are about 150 species of mosquito. Here on Long Island, there are two main ones. Culex pipiens is the common house mosquito. Aedes albopictus is a relatively new invasive species. Larger than the common house mosquito, this species is also called the Asian Tiger Mosquito.

If you’re dealing with but are unsure which type, give us a call. Our experienced mosquito exterminators will be happy to answer all your questions.

What Do Mosquitoes Look Like? Serving Long Island and surrounding areas

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