When Mosquitoes Are Most Active
WouterIdentifying when mosquitoes are most active is important for avoiding bites. The first thing to know is the difference between daytime and nighttime activity.
Most species of mosquito sleep in damp, shaded wetlands, forests, and other areas with shelter from direct sunlight. They avoid direct daylight because it dehydrates them.
Some species of mosquitos prefer to feed during the day. These include the Aedes species, which are known for their painful biting. They also spread diseases such as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever. In order to prevent mosquito bites, it is best to use an insect repellant with picaridin, IR 3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Other mosquito species are more active at dusk. They are usually found in tall grass or thick vegetation. They are attracted to human sweat, and may remain active throughout the night.
Some species of mosquito hibernate during the colder months. Then, when the weather gets warmer, they emerge from their dormancy. This can be in the spring, or in the fall.
The ideal temperature for mosquitoes is around 18degC to 34degC. This varies by month, but is generally warm enough for mosquitoes to survive. During the summer months, the ideal temperatures are generally higher. In winter, temperatures lower than 50degF will make mosquitoes less active.
There are more than 173 different species of mosquitoes in the United States. Each of these species has a unique life cycle. Most are nocturnal, but some are active at different times of the day. Several species are known to transmit diseases, such as West Nile virus.
