Mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti)

About Mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti)

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, also known as yellow fever mosquitoes, are an invasive species that has become increasingly prevalent in Orange County. Unlike native mosquitoes that are most active at dawn and dusk, Aedes aegypti are aggressive daytime biters that prefer to feed on humans. They breed in extremely small amounts of standing water found in plant saucers, bottle caps, clogged gutters, and pet bowls. These black-and-white striped mosquitoes are significant disease vectors worldwide, capable of transmitting Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses. Their urban-adapted behavior makes backyard and indoor control particularly important.

How to Identify Mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti)

• Small, dark black mosquito with distinctive white stripes on legs and body
• About 1/4 inch long with a lyre-shaped white marking on the thorax
• Aggressive daytime biter, especially active in early morning and late afternoon
• Breeds in very small containers of standing water, even bottle caps
• Tends to stay close to where it breeds, rarely traveling far

Lifecycle

Aedes aegypti females lay eggs individually on the walls of water-holding containers just above the waterline. Eggs can survive dry conditions for months and hatch when submerged. Larvae develop through four stages over 5 to 10 days in water before pupating. Adults emerge from pupae after 2 to 3 days and females begin biting within days.

Health & Property Risks

• Vector for Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses
• Aggressive daytime biting disrupts outdoor activities and yard enjoyment
• Breed in extremely small water sources, making elimination difficult
• Populations can explode rapidly during warm, humid conditions