What Do Mosquitoes Look Like?
There are thousands of mosquito species worldwide. For the most part, these mosquitoes share the same anatomy. Mosquitoes share the following characteristics:
- Adult mosquitoes are ¼ – ½” long and weigh less than 2.5 mg.
- Mosquitoes range in color depending on their species. Common types found in the U.S. can be gray or brown in color with white stripes and iridescent, hair-like scales.
- All mosquitoes have two long wings, slender bodies that rest in a “humpback” position, and characteristically long legs.
- Mosquitoes have a unique, long proboscis, which is made up of mouthparts that enable the insect to suck fluids.
Is It a Mosquito?
Mosquitoes can oftentimes be confused with other types of insects. However, they have two unique body parts that distinguish them from other bugs: scale-covered wings that give them a fringe-like appearance, and their beak-like proboscis. Mosquitoes are oftentimes smaller than you think, which is why people often confuse much larger bugs for these blood-suckers. The easiest way to identify mosquitoes is to look at their unique behaviors that help set them apart from other bugs.
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Bugs That Look Like Mosquitoes in Vermont
Crane flies, midges, gnats, and mayflies are often confused with mosquitoes. Here’s how they differ from mosquitoes:
- Crane flies: Also referred to as mosquito hawks, these insects look like giant mosquitoes at nearly double the size of mosquitoes. They are harmless and will not draw blood.
- Mayflies: The mayfly has larger, upward slanting wings and does not possess the proboscis. Mayflies do not bite or sting.
- Midges/gnats: Although somewhat related to mosquitoes, midges rarely bite and do not transmit disease. They appear in large swarms and lack a proboscis.
Mosquitoes in the State of Vermont
There are about 150 species of mosquitoes found nationwide. These four are frequently found here in Vermont, and they can look very similar. To help identify what type of mosquito you are dealing with, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional mosquito exterminator.
What Do Mosquitoes Look Like? in Vermont
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