Mosquitoes have long, thin legs, a single pair of wings, and a head featuring a prominent proboscis. Most often their bodies and wings are covered in tiny scales. Adults can range from 3 to 9 mm in size.
Mosquitoes Often Confused as Flies
Because mosquitoes belong to the same group as the true flies, Diptera, they are often confused with flies. But most flies do not bite like mosquitoes do. And one determining difference is that even long-legged flies are usually much smaller than mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes’ Pesky Habits
Mosquitoes are probably best known for their pesky habit – feeding on humans. This is actually a habit of the adult females who feed on blood to help generate their eggs. Though it might not seem (or feel) this way, mosquito adults, males and females, also feed on nectar from flowers. Adult mosquitoes prefer shady areas and times of day so they are most active from dusk till dawn, but often become active when there is sufficient cloud cover or in dark and shady areas. The sun causes them to dry up and die, so they prefer to avoid sunshine.
Mosquitoes’ High-Pitched Buzzing
The telltale high-pitched buzz you often hear is actually caused by the rapid beating of their wings. This warning sign often chases us indoors to avoid the threat of being bitten. It’s important to remember that more than just the annoying itch of the bite, mosquitoes are responsible for spreading diseases such as West Nile Virus, dengue and malaria. Mostly though, mosquitoes threaten fun outdoor events more often than your health. A pest control specialist can help you assess what might be the best treatment in order to help you re-claim your backyard.
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