5 Types of Mosquitoes You’ll Find in Texas
When mosquitoes bite, you probably don’t stop to examine what species it is. You just swat and move on. But if you did stop to look, you might be surprised to learn that mosquitoes come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, there are 200 different species of mosquitoes in the US and 85 mosquito species in Texas! We don’t have time to cover every single one, but here are 5 of the most common ones we see.
5 Of The Most Common Mosquitoes In Texas
1. Upland Flood Water Mosquito (Aedes Vexans)
This critter is actually the top pest in the US, as far as mosquitoes are concerned. You’ll know it’s an upland floodwater mosquito by the white bands found on its abdomen. Typically active during the dawn, dusk, or night, it has been known to come out during the day if there is enough shade. Like many mosquitoes, this guy can carry heartworm and infect your pets.
2. Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes Albopictus)
This guy is small with dark and white spots on their body. Its legs are black with white joints. They can carry many diseases, including Zika, West Nile, Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Chikungunya. And as if that wasn’t bad enough, this annoying critter is active during the day, stays out all year long, and one mosquito can survive for up to three weeks. And just when you think it can’t get any worse: the mature egg-laying females can make do with pooled water virtually anywhere – even a bottle cap. Asian tiger mosquitoes will go after virtually any exposed skin and are very attracted to not only humans but pets, wild mammals like raccoons and possums, and even birds.
3. Dark Rice Field Mosquito (Psorophora Columbiae)
This mosquito prefers pastures and rice fields, as you may have guessed from the name. While you may not experience this if you live in the urban heart of Fort Worth, it’s important to protect yourself and your family because these bugs are known to carry encephalitis. Plus, they can actually fly over 10 miles from their breeding grounds, so even if you live in a suburb, you may not be safe from this guy unless you opt for professional mosquito control services.
They’ll come out on their own during the dawn or late afternoon but will gladly scoop up a meal if you’re unfortunate enough to disturb them. Look for dark brown mosquitoes with a bit of silver. The bites of this species are not as subtle as other mosquitoes, which can often slip away without you even knowing they were there. Instead, their bites are known to be painful.
4. Southern House Mosquito (Culex Quinquefasciatus)
Southern house mosquitoes are lighter in color compared to the mosquitoes we’ve discussed so far. Their bodies and legs are a lighter brown color. Their abdomens are light enough that you may even be able to see blood collecting in it. They are the main carrier of West Nile virus in the US and, like all mosquitoes, breed in water – preferably polluted water. It’s active pretty much from dusk til dawn, even all through the night.
5. Eastern Saltmarsh Mosquito (Aedes Sollicitans)
While the dark rice mosquito has bits of silver on its body, the eastern saltmarsh mosquito has a golden hue to its body. They prefer to prey on poor mammals, like us humans, and use birds as hosts. They prefer the Gulf Coast areas but are known to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. They’re known to carry both heartworm and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. They’ll bite mostly during twilight, but if you come near them during the daytime, they may venture out.
How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes In Texas
The only surefire way to protect yourself from these 5 – and the other 80 species – is with an outdoor mosquito control application. Citronella torches and bug spray will help to repel mosquitoes, but they don’t really address the problem. At Gro Lawn, we’ll make sure that all potential breeding grounds on your property are sprayed to halt the mosquito life cycle in its tracks. From unhatched eggs to larvae to adult breeding mosquitoes, none stand a chance against our control applications. You’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors again with peace of mind knowing you, your family, and your pets are protected.
Get Professional Mosquito Control Services Near Fort Worth
Whichever kind of mosquitoes are invading your yard, the experts at Gro Lawn control are here to help. Our mosquito control program keeps you safe all season long with timely applications, so there’s never a lapse in coverage. We can also apply mosquito treatment for one-time special events like graduation parties, wedding receptions, or family reunions hosted on your property. If you’re interested in learning more, give us a call or ask your questions through our online form. We’re excited to help you on the path to a mosquito-free yard!