The Asian tiger mosquito common to Bensalem gets its name from the striped black and white head and body of the insect, which resembles a tiger. Remaining close to its home, the Asian tiger mosquito typically does not travel further than ½ mile from the location where living and breeding is taking place. This is typically a natural safe haven, such as any area in a tree or landscaping where water pools up and remains stagnant.
It only takes 10 to 14 days for the Asian tiger mosquito larvae to become completely grown, resulting in a pretty short period of time during which an infestation can develop. Summer is the most popular time of year to see tiger mosquito activity. This is when the larvae will transition to adults, rising to the surface of the water to become more mobile. The Asian tiger mosquito can actually spend an entire winter in an egg stage, proving the endurance and heartiness of this insect.
WHAT DO ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES LOOK LIKE?
The Asian tiger mosquito can be identified from its black and white body, which is approximately 1/4-inch long, on average. The body is mainly black, with white stripes on the head and legs.
The physical appearance of the tiger mosquito (Asian variety) is very similar to that of some of the other mosquitoes throughout the region. Behavior is what sets this species apart from other species. The fact that the female Asian tiger mosquito feeds during the day can indicate that this is the species being observed.
WHERE DO TIGER MOSQUITOES LIVE?
While the Asian tiger mosquito was originally found in Southeast Asia, is commonly encountered throughout Bensalem and much of the U.S. as this mosquito has learned to become more tolerant of colder temperatures.
Shade and water are two things that the Asian tiger mosquito needs in order to thrive. Typical housing options include the inside of hollowed-out trees where water can be held. Other pots and containers in a yard make for a great Asian tiger mosquito home that is protected from other insects.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES
The damage caused by the Asian tiger mosquito is focused on health and medical-related issues. At most, mosquitoes can try to lay their eggs in inconvenient locations. However, the bite of this insect is where the real danger lies.
WHAT DO TIGER MOSQUITOES EAT?
The Asian tiger mosquito is a pretty efficient insect because feeding can take place on both humans and animals. The male variety of the tiger mosquito is not parasitic in nature. Meaning that the males focus only on plant sources of food. The female will feed on living creatures before waiting approximately five days to lay eggs. Humans are preferred as a food source, but other animal options include squirrels, dogs, deer, turtles, rats, cats and cows.
The process of a female tiger mosquito looking for food incorporates two different processes. The first phase is searching for the host to feed from. After a source has been found, the female will use the proboscis to source blood from the human being fed from. Typically, a mosquito will feed for about four minutes before removing the proboscis and flying away. This is assuming their food source does not become aware of what is going on and stops the feeding process.
ARE ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITOES AGGRESSIVE?
The male Asian tiger mosquito is the least aggressive gender of this type of mosquito. The male feeds solely on various species of plants, meaning there is no risk of a bite to a human. However, female Asian tiger mosquitoes look for human blood in order to help with the development of eggs. This gender tends to be a lot more aggressive.
Most people are used to mosquitoes of different varieties biting and feeding off humans during the evening hours when the sun goes down. The Asian tiger mosquito is quite different. It is more common for feeding to occur during the daytime. Bites are more likely to occur if a tiger mosquito is attracted to the scent of sweat, dark-colored clothing or anything with a very fruity or floral smell.
The Asian tiger mosquito will bite animals such as dogs, deer and rabbits if it is necessary for food sourcing purposes. After a feeding has occurred, the female will lay eggs in approximately five days.
DO ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITIOES CARRY DISEASE?
Unfortunately, the Asian tiger mosquito has the ability to carry disease, much like other species of mosquitoes found throughout the Bensalem area. This variety of mosquito can carry the LaCrosse encephalitis virus, as well as the West Nile virus. Both of these conditions can result in extreme swelling within the brain.
The bite of the Asian tiger mosquito can also be of concern. Fort those who are sensitive to being bit by a mosquito, may experience swelling at the site of the bite. The spot can be very itchy and irritating. This species is very aggressive about biting, so it is common for them to bite multiple times in order to feed.
HOW TO DETECT TIGER MOSQUITOES
Signs of an Asian tiger mosquito infestation include:
• Bites on a human or animal • The buzzing of the Asian tiger mosquito nearby • The presence of this insect under landscaping or in natural caves or crevices • A lot of standing water on a property is a big sign that mosquitoes are likely nearby
HOW TO PREVENT TIGER MOSQUITOES
To help prevent Asian tiger mosquito issues, the following steps should be taken:
• Remove sources of standing water on a property • Keep landscaping trim to prevent an overly shady property • Routine treatments from a professional can deter Asian tiger mosquitoes • Discard any containers or junk on a property that can hold water and exist as a home for mosquitoes
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.
