Many wonder whether humans represent the sole food group of mosquitoes. So, is this accurate? Not exactly. Although it’s much more complicated than that, and can actually depend on their gender and breeding needs. For starters, let’s distinguish the difference between male and female mosquitoes.
Male Mosquitoes vs Female Mosquitoes
Male mosquitoes feed entirely on different plant nectars from plants such as: water lilies, papyrus, and water hyacinths. However, female mosquitoes require additional protein in order to reproduce. To gain this essential protein, they will feed off of the blood of humans and other animals. Amazingly, female mosquitoes will travel several miles in order to get the blood that they need. They are able to sense humans because of our body heat and the carbon dioxide that we exhale. This particular aspect of the mosquito is one of the most important and because of their impeccable hunting skills, they are able to keep their population growing. Ultimately, humans are not the sole food group for mosquitoes, but rather a supplement to give female mosquitoes the protein that they need in order to reproduce.
Now that we have addressed one of the most common misconceptions regarding mosquitoes, let’s examine exactly how a female mosquito is able to get the protein that they need from humans.
The Proboscis
The proboscis is more commonly known as the “tube” that mosquitoes and other insects (and mammals) use to feed. That is what mosquitoes will use to draw nectar from the flowers in addition to extracting blood from their human “snacks.” When the mosquito pierces the skin of its host with the proboscis, it also injects saliva into the wound which will act as an anticoagulant. This means that the blood will flow freely from the human host to the mosquito without much force being used by the mosquito. This can be why humans are sometimes unaware of these unwanted blood-sucking insects.
Development and Life Cycle
Mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in 10 to 14 days, which definitely qualifies as a quick adolescence. In that time frame, female mosquitoes may begin to “hunt” for both nectar and blood. This is why there always seems to be a surplus of mosquitoes in the summer months, as the life cycle moves very quickly for these insects. With a constant influx of mosquitoes, they’re bound to take over common areas and yards, especially if they are near water sources or moist soil. The population of mosquitoes grows larger by the day, which means that if you have a “mosquito problem” in your yard, it’s imperative that you get it under control before it begins to control your area.
Prevention
Although humans are essential to continuing the population of mosquitoes, we aren’t typically willing donors of our blood. That’s why it’s important to choose a targeted and effective mosquito treatment program that will keep you and your family happy and free of mosquito bites all summer long. There are several natural options, such as planting citronella grass, basil, garlic, or cloves. However, these are merely deterrents to the mosquitoes and won’t necessarily keep them at bay for long. For full relief from our winged friends, you’ll need to find a service plan that will work for you without breaking the bank. If you’re interested in learning more about a tick and mosquito treatment program from Backyard Defenders, simply fill out the contact form below!