Asian Tiger Mosquitoes In San Antonio

Summers in San Antonio, TX are filled with swimming, sunshine, and fun, but sadly, mosquitoes always like to crash the party. The season of sun creates perfect conditions for skeeter snack time. We all know of just how much harm mosquitoes can have on us, but the Asian Tiger Mosquito definitely steps that up a level.

About The Skeeters

This mosquito is small, and dark colored with clearly visible stripes, which is where it gets its name, the Asian Tiger mosquito. Its name can also be attributed to its more aggressive nature. Unlike most species of mosquito, this pest attacks throughout the entire day, not just at dawn and dusk. Dina Fonseca, associate professor of entomology at Rutgers University states, “Part of the reason it is called ‘tiger’ is also because it is very aggressive. You can try and swat it all you want, but once it’s on you, it doesn’t let go.”

This mosquito is also known to transmit many harmful diseases; more than 20. The most common here in the States are West Nile Virus, dengue fever, yellow fever, and two types of encephalitis. With summer in full motion, the presence of these mosquitoes is growing; especially close to people and their homes.

How They Got Here

These mosquitoes are not native to America, but where accidentally introduced from Japan through old tire shipments. Old tires can harbor perfect moist and wet environments for these pests to grow and reproduce.

Originally these mosquitoes are from the Southeast Asian tropics and wetlands, but have been able to spread throughout the world in the last few decades due to international trade and shipping. Now they can be found in 29 American states ranging from Texas to New Jersey, South America, Central America, southern Europe, and several pacific islands.

Prevention & Protection

Mosquitoes require standing water to breed. Getting rid of any puddles, or built up water near your property would diminish the amount of mosquitoes nearby.  Wearing clothing that covers exposed skin would make it difficult for mosquitoes to bite. While the common bug spray may not work too well against these mosquitoes, trying Deet, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus would be the best options against the Asian Tiger Mosquito.

San Antonio Pest Control

If you are in need of additional protection from mosquitoes this summer, get professional pest control in San Antonio.

Mosquito Control

General Pest Control

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• Have You Seen the Asian Tiger Mosquito?
• Look out — nasty new mosquito invading U.S.
• Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Out For Blood During The Day

Written By Heydi Ruelas