Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are a nuisance when they swarm in large numbers, and when they bite, leaving behind itchy welts. They are more than a nuisance, however. They can carry serious diseases that infect humans and animals, including West Nile virus, malaria, and eastern equine encephalitis. Every effort should be made to avoid mosquito bites.

There are over 3000 species of mosquitoes worldwide, and over 40 in Maine, about half of which feed on human blood. Mosquitoes are active at dusk and dawn, are most active at 80°F and do not function below 50°F.

Identification

adult mosquito
When a mosquito bites, it injects chemicals to prevent the blood from clotting and reduce pain. These chemicals cause irritation, which causes itching.

adult mosquito up close
Only the female mosquitoes feed on blood; male mosquitoes feed on plant nectar and juices.

mosquito larvae
Mosquito larvae. In warm weather mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in 5 days.

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List of licensed companies offering tick & mosquito control in Maine

Control Information

Fact Sheets

Dig Deeper

Information on Insect Repellents

Information on Infectious Diseases

[Photos, left to right: Jim Occi, BugPics, Bugwood.org; Susan Ellis, Bugwood.org; Jim Occi, BugPics, Bugwood.org]