Are There Asian Tiger Mosquitoes In Pennsylvania?

The Aedes albopictus, also known as the Asian Tiger mosquito, is native to Southeastern Asia. However, because it is able to breed in shipping containers, warehouses, and distribution ports, it is now found in many parts of the world. This includes Pennsylvania, and it is the second-most common mosquito in the state.

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Unlike most mosquito species, the Asian tiger mosquito prefers daytime and dusk to feed, unlike other mosquitoes that feed mainly at dawn. These insects are approximately 1/4-inch in length and they are long and angular in shape. The Asian tiger mosquito can breed almost anywhere although like other mosquitoes, they do prefer standing water for breeding purposes. These mosquitoes will find that water in old automobile tires, birdbaths, gutters, downspouts, and empty flower pots.

Also like other mosquitoes, the bite will leave a red and itchy bump on the skin. One of these bites can also transmit several dangerous diseases to the human host. These include yellow fever, West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis, and equine encephalitis. The Asian tiger is also known to carry certain strains of dengue fever, which results in a skin rash, fever, vomiting, and muscle and joint pain.

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