Identification

Dark brown to black with silvery white markings about 1/8” (2-10 mm) in size. They have a long, segmented body with a pair of wings.

Environment

Primarily found in the southern regions of the United States. 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.

Treatment

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.