Florida Mosquitoes

There are about 3,500 species of mosquitoes, Diptera, found throughout the world, with 80 specifically found in Florida. In most species of Florida mosquitoes, it is only the females who feed on humans and animals, as they utilize blood proteins and other nutrients for egg development. These female Florida mosquitoes become vectors for disease. They transmit various infections between hosts, including malaria, encephalitis, and rift valley fever. Mosquitoes have become such a pervasive disease-carrier that the World Health Organizations has identified malaria as one of the most serious public health concerns today. One to three million people die annually as a result of mosquitoes spreading this disease.

Appearance Florida Mosquitoes
Florida mosquitoes can be identified by their single pair of functional wings, whereas most insects have two pairs. Florida mosquitoes also possess a piercing proboscis which they use for feeding and have characteristic scales on the veins of their wings.

Behavior of Florida Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are the most versatile creatures on earth. They can reproduce in any natural or man-made environment and have been found everywhere from deep mine shafts to tall mountaintops, and in almost every environment in between. Florida mosquitoes have a complex life cycle which include an egg stage (or instars), a pupal stage and an adult stage. All immature stages are aquatic, as adult female Florida mosquitoes eventually return to water to lay their eggs.

Despite the common misconception and the painful sensation, Florida mosquitoes do not actually bite. These creatures more accurately “sting” as they inject a very sharp and thin proboscis to withdraw blood. The resulting swelling and itching caused by bites are actually an autoimmune reaction of the human body to the proteins found in the saliva of Florida mosquitoes. Florida mosquitoes use their saliva as both a lubricant for the proboscis and as an anticoagulant while feeding.


Tips for Preventing Florida Mosquitoes
Florida mosquitoes thrive in the floodwater habitat that is found across the state of Florida. It is estimated that there are 0.7 to 1.3 million mosquito eggs per acre in the citrus groves, pastures and uninhabited flat lands of Florida.

With such a daunting number of potential pests, home protection is a difficult task. However, there are basic preventative measures one can take to avoid infestations. These include emptying all standing water in and around your property and to limit the level of moisture in areas around your home.

How to Control Florida Mosquitoes
The most effective way to combat Florida mosquitoes is with the professional service of Suncoast Pest Control. If you have experienced an increase in Florida mosquitoes in your home or business, Suncoast Pest Control can help manage the mosquito population and make outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Schedule an exhaustive inspection from Suncoast Pest Control and we will carefully asses your home or business to identify and address areas prone to Florida mosquitoes!

Call us to manage your Florida mosquitoe problem today! 1-800-270-3086