Have you met the Asian Tiger Mosquito?

Posted by Mosquito Squad

March 30, 2016

Chances are, if you live anywhere in the Southeastern United States, you have. The Aedes Albopictusmosquito is better known as the Asian Tiger Mosquito and can be found in all of the southeastern states. CDC maps show its population reaching out as far west as Texas – as far north as New Jersey. This variety of mosquito originated in Asia but has transported across the globe, adapting to a broader range of temperatures. It made it’s way to the United States in the mid-1980’s, mostly through imported tire casings used for recapping.

What makes the Asian Tiger Mosquito Unique?

Called “tiger” mosquitoes for their markings, they have very distinct white and silver stripes across their bodies and legs and a white spot on their head. At approximately ¼ inch in size, these markings are easily distinguished by the naked eye. Unlike many other varieties, Asian Tiger Mosquitoes are daytime feeders and are also known to swarm their victims. They are extremely aggressive and sometimes bite not once, but 6 or 7 times for a complete blood meal. They live in cities and well-populated environments, laying their eggs in water-filled, container-like areas – tree holes, old tires, buckets, and bird baths. They will also lay eggs in other water collecting pans you might have scattered throughout your property, meant for flowers and other aesthetic additions, but transformed into breeding grounds for these pests.

Asian Tiger Mosquito Diseases

And of course, these mosquitoes can carry disease. West Nile, Zika virus, Chikungunya, encephalitis, yellow fever, malaria, canine heartworms… the Asian Tiger Mosquito has been named as a carrier for each of these. That is why keeping your yard protected is so important. Reducing the risk of exposure to these pests reduces the chance of any harm coming to your family and pets.

Prevent mosquito bites with help from Mosquito Squad of Louisville! Our barrier treatment is our most popular service and the best way to keep your yard protected. Applied by our highly trained staff every 2-3 weeks, this treatment eliminates mosquitoes on contact, while it’s time released formula continues to work for 2 or 3 more weeks. Overall you will see an 85-90% reduction of the mosquito population in your yard. And don’t forget, we back our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee! Call and schedule service today and don’t forget the 5 Ts of mosquito control!