Yellow Fever Mosquitoes
Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus)
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes originated in Africa and were most likely brought to the new world via ships in the early 1900s. Their distribution continues to increase worldwide, making them one of the most widespread mosquito species. As their common name suggests, yellow fever mosquitoes are the primary vectors of yellow fever, a prevalent disease in tropical South America and Africa.
Pest Stats
Color
Dark brown to black with silvery white markings
Legs
6
Shape
Long, segmented body with a pair of wings
Size
About 1/8” (2-10 mm)
Antennae
Yes
Region
Primarily found in the southern regions of the United States
Videos View All Videos
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Watch this video to learn the proper way to apply insect repellant to keep mosquitoes, ticks and other pests away. It's important to wear bug spray when spending time outdoors to prevent mosquito bites.
-
Watch this video to take a look one of the most common summer pests - mosquitoes - and how you can keep them from being a nuisance in your yard.
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Spread by infected mosquitoes, West Nile virus is a serious illness. Symptoms typically develop 3 to 14 days after a mosquito bite. For more information on mosquitoes, check out the mosquito pest guide.
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Dr. Parada explains the facts and symptoms of West Nile Virus. He discusses both West Nile disease and fever symptoms in detail. Learn more about West Nile virus here.
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Don't scratch! Mosquito bites can be treated with topical creams. For allergic reactions, antihistamines are recommended. Learn more about mosquito bites here.
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What is it about some people that makes them so attractive to mosquitoes? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist with the National Pest Management Association, discusses this topic.
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How is it possible that mosquitoes need only a 1/2 inch of water to breed? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why mosquitoes require such a small amount of water to reproduce. Visit the Mosquitoes Pest Guide to learn about mosquito control.
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Where do mosquitoes go in the winter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), has the answer! Learn more about mosquitoes.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes originated in Africa and were most likely brought to the new world via ships in the early 1900s. Their distribution continues to increase worldwide, making them one of the most widespread mosquito species. As their common name suggests, yellow fever mosquitoes are the primary vectors of yellow fever, a prevalent disease in tropical South America and Africa.
Pest Stats
Color
Dark brown to black with silvery white markings
Legs
6
Shape
Long, segmented body with a pair of wings
Size
About 1/8” (2-10 mm)
Antennae
Yes
Region
Primarily found in the southern regions of the United States
Videos View All Videos
-
Watch this video to learn the proper way to apply insect repellant to keep mosquitoes, ticks and other pests away. It's important to wear bug spray when spending time outdoors to prevent mosquito bites.
-
Watch this video to take a look one of the most common summer pests - mosquitoes - and how you can keep them from being a nuisance in your yard.
-
Spread by infected mosquitoes, West Nile virus is a serious illness. Symptoms typically develop 3 to 14 days after a mosquito bite. For more information on mosquitoes, check out the mosquito pest guide.
-
Dr. Parada explains the facts and symptoms of West Nile Virus. He discusses both West Nile disease and fever symptoms in detail. Learn more about West Nile virus here.
-
Don't scratch! Mosquito bites can be treated with topical creams. For allergic reactions, antihistamines are recommended. Learn more about mosquito bites here.
-
What is it about some people that makes them so attractive to mosquitoes? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist with the National Pest Management Association, discusses this topic.
-
How is it possible that mosquitoes need only a 1/2 inch of water to breed? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why mosquitoes require such a small amount of water to reproduce. Visit the Mosquitoes Pest Guide to learn about mosquito control.
-
Where do mosquitoes go in the winter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), has the answer! Learn more about mosquitoes.
Habits
Female adult yellow fever mosquitoes primarily feed on humans, as a blood meal is required to produce eggs. These mosquitoes are active around the clock – biting during the day, and at dusk and dawn. Male yellow fever mosquitoes do not bite. Instead, they feed on plant nectar.
Habitat
Yellow fever mosquitoes live in tropical, subtropical and some temperate climates. They often inhabit shaded containers with standing water to lay their eggs. Yellow fever mosquitoes also breed in flowerpots, spare tires, baby pools, drainage ditches and other objects where water collects.
Threats
The bite from a yellow fever or Aedes aegypti mosquito can result in an itchy, raised bump on the skin. More concerning, though, is that this type of mosquito is a vector of numerous diseases, including dengue fever and chikungunya. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have most recently been implicated in the global spread of Zika virus.
Yellow Fever Mosquitoes Prevention
The most effective way to prevent contact with yellow fever mosquitoes – and all other mosquito species – is to eliminate areas of standing water around the home. Pay attention to water that may collect in baby pools, flowerpots, birdbaths and grill covers. Those who spend time outdoors should wear long pants and sleeves, and apply an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus. Homeowners should also screen all windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from flying inside.