Is it true that only certain mosquitoes bite and/or transmit disease?

Yes. Only the female mosquito bites. The male feeds on plant juices to be used to fertilize the eggs of the female, which must then have a blood meal before she can produce viable eggs. 

Some species of mosquitoes only bite birds, some cold-blooded animals and some prefer rodents, etc. Not all are capable of transmitting disease. Some are capable of transmitting several viruses and some are only capable of transmitting one virus. The virus must undergo certain metabolic actions within the mosquito before it can then be transmitted via the bite. Some viruses are not capable of undergoing this and some are not present in sufficient quantity in the mosquito to be transmitted. Some mosquito species don't bite at all.

Show All Answers

1. What if I don’t want my property treated or sprayed?
2. Are mosquitoes attracted to some people more than others?
3. What purposes do mosquitoes serve?
4. What diseases do mosquitoes carry?
5. Do mosquitoes carry AIDS?
6. Are the chemicals harmful to people or pets?
7. Will DEET hurt children?
8. What is the best personal repellent?
9. How can one type of insect be controlled without hurting other insects or wildlife?
10. What is the best way to control mosquitoes?
11. How effective is the spray?
12. Why can't mosquito control programs spray during the day?
13. How do districts decide where to spray?
14. How long does the mosquito spray last?
15. What does Mosquito Control do and why?
16. How safe are the pesticides being used?
17. When do you spray?
18. Is it true that only certain mosquitoes bite and/or transmit disease?
19. Can I as a homeowner make a difference in the mosquito population in my area?
20. Can I spray my yard myself?
21. Why is it so important that I inspect my yard when ditches and woodland surround me?
22. When are the Commission Meetings held?