Mosquitoes are small, flying insects easily recognized by their long, slender bodies and delicate, scaled wings. They typically measure ¼ to ½ inch in length. Most species are gray or brown and sometimes accented white or silver markings. A notable feature of female mosquitoes is their proboscis, a long tube-like mouthpart used to pierce the skin and draw blood.
No, only female mosquitoes bite. They require protein from blood to develop their eggs.
Male mosquitoes feed on nectar and other plant-based substances. In addition to the blood meal they take, female mosquitoes also consume nectar, plant juices, and other natural sugars.
Yes, mosquitoes are known carriers of diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. In the Birmingham metro, the primary concern is the West Nile virus, which can cause serious health issues.
Mosquitoes typically live for two to three weeks. However, some female mosquitoes can survive longer in cooler conditions by entering a state of hibernation.
Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water, where they lay their eggs, and tall grasses and shaded areas where they rest. Carbon dioxide (what people exhale), body heat, and certain scents like sweat and perfume can also attract these biting pests.
Mosquitoes typically rest in shaded areas, such as under decks, in tall grass, or among shrubs, during the day and prefer to avoid direct sunlight.
While uncommon, mosquitoes can breed indoors in areas with stagnant water, such as potted plants and other containers.
Mosquitoes breed rapidly, with a single female capable of laying hundreds of eggs in her lifetime. The breeding process begins when a female lays eggs on or near standing water. Under ideal conditions, the eggs hatch into larvae within 24 to 48 hours. The larvae then progress through several growth stages, transforming into pupae before emerging as adult mosquitoes. The entire life cycle—from egg to adult—can take as little as 7 to 10 days, depending on the species and environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. This quick reproductive cycle enables mosquitoes to multiply quickly, making infestations challenging to control without intervention.
Contact Acre Pest Control for effective mosquito control! Serving the Birmingham metro, property owners can count on our local pest control team to drastically reduce mosquito populations when these biting pests are most active - March through October. What’s more, our Acre Outdoor program also targets ticks.
To discourage mosquito activity on your property, we recommend the following mosquito prevention tips:
If you’re dealing with mosquitoes in your outdoor living space in Hoover, Vestavia Hills, or elsewhere in the Birmingham metro, contact Acre Pest Control for assistance!
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