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Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Yes!

As anyone who has ever lived in a mosquito-prone area knows, mosquitoes are prolific biters. Surprisingly, however, only female mosquitoes feed on blood as blood is needed to lay eggs. Male mosquitoes never bite. 

Mosquito sucking blood form skin

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Humans?

Female mosquitoes bite humans to acquire the nutrients in our blood. These nutrients are used to develop mosquito eggs. After a female mosquito bites, she is able to breed and lay eggs. 

We call it “biting”, but actually, the female mosquito is piercing your skin like a needle with her proboscis. One tube of the proboscis injects saliva that contains a mix of chemicals to numb pain, thin your blood, and prevent it from clotting. The other proboscis tube sucks up the blood.

Mosquito Bite Symptoms in Central TN

Mosquito bites most often turn into itchy raised welts. In other parts of the world, mosquito bites are linked to a number of chronic and fatal diseases. Luckily, mosquito-borne disease in Central TN is rare. Still, there’s nothing fun about getting bit by a mosquito.

Mosquitoes will bite any areas of exposed skin. They are not picky.

The most common mosquito bite symptoms include:

  • Itchy pinkish-red bumps rise minutes after the mosquito pierces skin.
  • Bumps will often darken and become redder and reach a size of up to ½” across.
  • Itching can be intense, but remember, scratching them worsens the symptoms and can cause bruising or rashes.
  • In rare cases: fever, severe headaches, nausea, and fatigue may signal a much more severe problem. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consult with a medical professional ASAP.

Do Mosquitoes Bite Dogs or Cats?

Yes, mosquitoes will bite your pets when searching for a blood meal. Any mammal will do, and they will even bite birds, too. Cats are less likely to get bitten because their fur is denser, but they can be bitten on their nose and ears.

In addition to causing itchy red bumps on your pets, pets are also at risk of mosquito-borne diseases. 

Keep yourself and your pets safe from mosquitoes this upcoming season with professional mosquito control treatments.

Do Mosquitoes Bite in Central Tennessee

Serving Central Tennessee

Murfreesboro, TN | Smyrna, TN | Christiana, TN | La Vergne, TN | Brentwood, TN | Franklin, TN | Lebanon, TN | Mt. Juliet, TN | Nolensville, TN | Woodbury, TN | College Grove, TN | Rockvale, TN | Hermitage, TN | Liberty, TN | Spring Hill, TN | Thompsons Station, TN