What Species of Mosquito Do We Have In Winston Salem?

Are you tired of being constantly bothered by mosquitoes in North Carolina? There are over 3500 different species of mosquitoes, but only a few that are really prevalent in the Winston area. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the different types of mosquitoes you might encounter when out and about in your backyard.

First up, we have the Aedes Albopictus. This pesky insect is known for its black and white striped legs and very aggressive behavior. Unlike their nocturnal counterparts, these mosquitoes are active during early morning and the afternoon. They are most commonly found in urban areas and are known to transmit diseases such as Zika, dengue fever, and chikungunya, all of which are even less pleasant than they sound.

Next, we have the Culex Quinquefasciatus mosquito. These mosquitoes are smaller and brown in color and are often found near standing water, such as ponds or birdbaths. They are known to transmit West Nile virus, which can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches.

Another type of mosquito commonly found in North Carolina is the Anopheles mosquito. These mosquitoes are usually brown in color and are most active during the evening and early morning hours. They are known to transmit malaria, although very rarely in our area. It is a potentially deadly disease that can cause fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms, but prefers a warmer climate to propagate in.

Lastly, we have the Psorophora mosquito. These mosquitoes are large and black in color and are often referred to as "gallinippers." They are known for their painful bites and can be found near wooded areas or marshes. While they are not known to transmit any diseases in our area, their bites can swell and be very itchy.

So, what can you do to protect yourself from these pesky insects and their bites? The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to eliminate standing water around your home, as this is where mosquitoes love to breed. Our technicians are trained to spot these areas and even take care of them for you! You can also use insect repellent containing DEET or wear long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors. 

Professionals like us at Mosquito Squad have treatment programs ready that can drastically reduce the mosquito population in your backyard; up to 90%! Call 336-347-4462 to learn more!