WEST NILE VIRUS

Tips on Mosquito Behaviour

Where do mosquitoes live and breed?
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in moist areas, such as standing water. Many mosquitoes breed in containers that hold water, such as flower pots or discarded tires. The eggs become larva that remain in the water until the adults mature and fly off. Weeds, tall grass and shrubbery provide an outdoor home for adult mosquitoes. They can also enter houses, tents, trailers and RVs through unscreened windows or doors, or broken screens.

Is there a specific time of day when mosquitoes are most active?
Mosquitoes are most active in Ontario from April to October. The season may start later and end earlier in northern Ontario, depending on temperatures. Mosquitoes tend to be most active (and tend to bite more) between dusk and dawn, but they may be present at any time of the day.

Do all mosquitoes bite humans?
Only the adult females of certain mosquito species bite humans. Male mosquitoes feed on nectar and plant juices only. Female mosquitoes feed on humans, birds and other animals to get sufficient blood to develop eggs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Modified: May 7, 2003
Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2008