Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Invade Los Angeles (again).

Nobody likes annoying pests, especially when they invade your home and you can’t seem to get away from them no matter how hard you try. Mosquitoes are particularly irritating, but the blood-sucking insects aren’t just pesky, they also carry diseases that can be potentially fatal. 

Since they first invaded Orange County in 2011, the greater Los Angeles area has suffered from swarms of the troublesome Asian Tiger Mosquito, and unfortunately, 2020 is no different (can we catch a break, please). Just last month, Orange Country reported its first West Nile Virus death, which goes to show that the Asian Tiger Mosquito is more than just an annoying visitor.

With distinctive black and white stripes on its thorax, the Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes Albopictus) is native to southeast Asia. And, as with other species of mosquitoes, it’s the ladies that cause all the trouble. Female mosquitoes are the ones who go out on the prowl searching for their preferred prey; the exposed ankles of unsuspecting summertime barbeque goers or park picnickers. Hence, the reason they have adopted the nickname “ankle biters”.

This particular species of mosquito is not only an aggressive biter, they’re also active during the day. Most worryingly, they have the potential to carry a number of diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, and canine heartworm.

The Asian Tiger Mosquito seems to like its new Orange County habitat, which isn’t great news for residents who would prefer they left well enough alone. They do well here, partially due to the balmy Los Angeles weather and easy breeding conditions which allow them to lay their eggs with ease. These mosquitoes are known as “container breeders”; water-filled containers and the stems of aquatic plants make the ideal nurseries for their offspring.

What You Can Do To Help Stop The Infestation.

Residents are urged to take action to help control the infestation rates of this irritating invasive species. 

• Dump or drain any standing water in or around your home.
• Avoid decorative items that include standing water, such as birdbaths or ponds. If you wish to keep these filled, clean them thoroughly every few days.
• Throw away all containers that can hold water in your yard, even smaller items like trash or disposable cups can collect enough water to make an ideal breeding habitat.
• Remove dishes from beneath plant pots and drill drainage holes.
• Clean out rain gutters.
• If you are particularly concerned about mosquito activity in your home, call 562-944-9656 or visit the GLACVCD website.