In appearance, western tree hole mosquitos are mostly dark, with narrow bands of white scales on their legs and abdomens. They are native to western North America, from Mexico to British Columbia. In the late spring, these mosquitos lay hundreds of eggs in holes in the trunks and branches of more than 20 different kinds of mature trees. Once rain fills the holes with water, the eggs hatch. Male mosquitos emerge in early spring, with female mosquitos showing up later.
Male western tree hole mosquitos swarm in bunches, but they do not bite humans. They feed on plant juices only. But the females do bite humans and can be quite vicious.
This species of mosquito is also a problem because it carries and transmits dog heartworm.. which can be fatal in animals.
Controlling Western Tree Hole Mosquitos
Controlling these insects has been considered very difficult. In some states, abatement workers try simply to reduce the number of adult biting insects to a tolerable level.
In 1998, local abatement districts in Utah began identifying trees to get rid of the tree hole mosquitos. If you have questions, call your local mosquito abatement district.
S.L.C. Mosquito Abatment: 355-9221
Click here for a list of Mosquito Abatement Districts in Utah.
(Source: Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District)
Otehr tips for controlling mosquitos
