The Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus), although native to Southeastern Asia, can be found throughout many parts of the world due to its ability to breed in shipping containers, warehouses, and distribution ports. Of the 60 species of mosquitoes estimated to be found in Pennsylvania, the Asian tiger mosquito is the second-most commonly found behind that of the Northern house mosquito.
WHAT ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES LOOK LIKE
The Asian tiger mosquito, unlike mosquito species, prefers daytime and dusk to dawn mobility and feeding, as well as human hosts.
• Size: Adults up to 1/4" in length • Shape: Long, angular • Wings: 2 • Legs: 4 • Antennae: Yes • Color: Mostly light brown with pale spots with scales on the veins of the wings
WHERE DO TIGER MOSQUITOES LIVE?
Asian tiger mosquitoes prefer standing water in old automobile tires, bird baths, gutters, downspouts and empty flower pots.
WHAT DO TIGER MOSQUITOES EAT?
The main food supply for the Asian tiger mosquito comes from algae in water, juices of fruit on trees, flower nectar and human blood.
ARE ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES AGGRESSIVE?
The Asian tiger mosquito is known to attack and bite humans, cats, dogs, birds and other mammals. Human blood is the Asian tiger mosquito's choice.
DO ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITIOES CARRY DISEASE?
Yes.
The Asian tiger mosquito is responsible for transmitting several types of diseases. These include West Nile virus, yellow fever, St. Louis and La Crosse encephalitis, a certain strain of dengue fever and also equine encephalitis. The bite of the Asian tiger mosquito leaves a red bump on the skin.
HOW TO DETECT TIGER MOSQUITOES
It's fairly easy to detect an infestation of Asian tiger mosquitoes as they generally fly, bite and rest close to ground levels. Their unusual color makes them quickly identifiable.
HOW TO PREVENT TIGER MOSQUITOES
Identifying the sources of potential Asian tiger mosquito infestation and breeding grounds of larvae is an important part of prevention.
Below are some guidelines to help prevent against an Asian tiger mosquito problem:
OUTDOORS
• Check low lying and thick shrubbery for Asian tiger mosquitoes • Remove all outdoor items that collect puddles of water • Check holes in trees for Asian tiger mosquito larvae • Inspect and remove all areas where stagnant water has collected
INDOORS
Asian tiger mosquitoes may find their way indoors through from normal opening and closings of doors or from windows that have defective screens. Help prevent mosquitoes from gaining entry with these tips :
• Inspect screens on storm doors and windows for points of entry • Seal or caulk openings around doors and windows
HOW TO PREVENT TIGER MOSQUITO BITES
Because Asian tiger mosquitoes bite more frequently than other mosquito species, protecting potential hosts is important. To prevent Asian tiger mosquito bites, use an approved topical repellent on exposed areas of the body. Asian tiger mosquitoes typically prefer biting exposed knees and ankles.
HOW TO TREAT FOR MOSQUITOES
At Newtown Termite & Pest Control, we realize mosquito control problems can make life indoors or out less enjoyable.
Our certified technician will conduct a thorough indoor and outdoor inspection of the premises, detect potential Asian tiger mosquito breeding and provide the best professional grade products designed for Asian tiger mosquito eradication and prevention.
