What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?
Of the over 150 types of mosquitoes found in the U.S., there are 50 species common in New England. These insects have narrow wings, slender bodies, and six long, slim legs. Mosquitoes also have thin needle-like mouthparts used to pierce the skin and drink blood from people and pets.
Pictures of Mosquitoes
People often confuse mosquitoes with mayflies, crane flies, or gnats. Unlike these lookalike pests, female mosquitoes take blood meals, and their bites leave an itchy welt on the skin. The pests are also vectors for West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis, which can affect both people and pets.
Since mosquitoes can spread serious diseases, prevention and control are crucial. We’ve put together a mosquito photo gallery to help you identify these troublesome insects when they invade your home or business.
Culex Mosquitoes
Close-up of culex mosquitoes drinking a blood meal from a human
Also known as the common house mosquito, culex are mainly brown in color with white stripes across their abdomens. Females are the only blood-drinking member of the species, and though they typically feed off of birds, they often enter homes and bite people when other meal sources are unavailable.
Aedes Mosquitoes
Close-ups of aedes mosquitoes drinking human blood and laying eggs in standing water.
With a series of white markings all over their legs and bodies, aedes mosquitoes are one of the easiest species to identify. They range from one-eighth to one-third of an inch in size and prefer to stay in shady areas and places near standing water. While most mosquitoes come out at dusk, these insects tend to deliver their bites during the day and early evening.