Everything You Should Know about the Gallinipper Mosquito

April 21st, 2018

Gallinipper Mosquito

Most mosquitos are small enough that you hardly notice them as they invade your space and bite your legs and arms. But the American Gallinipper is different. This monster mosquito is about six times larger than the size of a common mosquito, and its bite is that much more painful. Though it’s been a few years since Florida was invaded by the Gallinipper, it’s important to always stay alert for these pests.

How to Recognize a Gallinipper

The Gallinipper mosquito can most easily be recognized for its impressive size and aggressive nature. It is about the size of a quarter with feathery dark scales on its hind legs. You are most likely to see Gallinippers after major floods or hurricanes in Florida, since they are known as “flood mosquitos.”

Female Gallinippers lay their eggs in the cracks of dry soil at the edges of ponds, streams, and other bodies of water that are most likely to overflow with heavy rains. The eggs can actually remain dry and dormant for years until high waters help them hatch.

The Dangers of Gallinippers

These monster mosquitos aren’t just ugly and bothersome. Like other mosquitos, they also carry health risks. They have tested positive for west nile disease and various strains of encephalitis, the disease that causes birth defects. Fortunately, the CDC does not currently consider this species to be a vector in the transmission of these diseases. Nonetheless, pest control is essential to avoid all potential risks.

Eliminating Gallinippers From Your Property

Gallinipper mosquitoes are especially aggressive, so it isn’t enough to spray DEET, light a citronella candle, and hope for the best. You need the help of a professional pest control company to keep these at bay.

Green Solutions Lawn Care and Pest Control in Tampa, Florida uses a detailed treatment protocol to reduce your mosquito population. This includes treating all vegetation like trees, bushes, and shrubbery from the ground level up to 10 feet. The team at Green Solutions is careful to emphasize the undersides of leaves, foliage, and brush, where Gallinipper mosquitoes like to hide. Call (813) 684-7336 now to schedule your appointment.