This invasive (non-native) mosquito, commonly known as the yellow fever mosquito, is a small dark mosquito that bites during the day. They especially like to bite ankles, wrists and elbows. They prefers to dwell in urban areas indoors and outdoors. Aedes aegypti  are “container breeders”, they lay Individual eggs that are glued to the sides of containers. These eggs are resistant to drying out and can survive for many months until water covers them, making them very difficult to control. It can complete their life cycle in 7-10 days and adults live for about 3 weeks.

WHY THE CONCERN?

Aedes aegypti is an invasive mosquito in California that is capable of transmitting several diseases including yellow fever, Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. While there have been no local transmissions detected to date, the identification and control of this invasive mosquito is important to protect public health.

BREEDING SOURCES THAT NEED YOUR ATTENTION TO AVOID INVASIVE MOSQUITOES

• Remove saucers under plants
• Cover bins, buckets, and tubs with fitted lids
• Remove miscellaneous containers from yard
• Remove old tires from yard
• Fill rims of pots with sand
• Re-direct sprinklers so containers are not filled
• Keep recyclables in covered container(s) that drain
• Properly modify (screen) or remove rain barrels
• Empty birdbaths/fountains (every 3 days) Empty/refill pet drinking water (every 3 days)
• Clean out/drain rain gutters and drains in yard
• Remove plants that hold water in yard
• Keep potential sources dry when not in use