Types of Mosquitoes in Tennessee: Pest Identification Guide
Mosquitoes in Tennessee: Quick Facts
Tennessee’s warm, humid summers make it prime mosquito country. Beyond itchy bites, mosquitoes here can spread West Nile virus and other diseases, and they transmit heartworm to dogs and cats.- Season: Most active from spring through fall, peaking in summer
- Breeding: In standing water; even a bottle cap’s worth can produce mosquitoes
- Development: From egg to biting adult in about a week in hot weather
- Who bites: Only females, which need blood to produce eggs
- Common species: Asian tiger mosquitoes and house mosquitoes
Common Mosquitoes in Tennessee
Asian Tiger Mosquito
Black with bright white stripes on the legs and body. It bites aggressively during the day, especially in shade, and breeds in small containers such as buckets, flowerpot saucers, toys, and clogged gutters. It’s the mosquito most people notice in their backyards.
House Mosquitoes
Plain brown mosquitoes that bite from dusk through the night and often come indoors. They breed in stagnant, nutrient-rich water such as storm drains, ditches, and neglected pools, and they’re the main carriers of West Nile virus.
Floodwater Mosquitoes
Lay eggs in damp soil that hatch after heavy rain, which is why mosquito populations can explode a week or so after a storm.
Where Mosquitoes Breed Around Your Home
- Clogged gutters and downspout extensions
- Flowerpot saucers, buckets, and watering cans
- Old tires, tarps, and grill covers that collect water
- Birdbaths, pet bowls, and kiddie pools
- Tree holes, stumps, and low spots in the yard
- Unused pools, hot tub covers, and ornamental ponds without fish
Health Risks
- West Nile virus: Detected in Tennessee most years. Most infected people have no symptoms, but some develop fever, and a small number develop serious illness.
- Other viruses: La Crosse virus, which mainly affects children, has been reported in Tennessee, particularly in the eastern part of the state.
- Heartworm: Mosquitoes spread heartworm to dogs and cats, which is why year-round preventive medication matters.
- Bite reactions: Itchy welts, and in some people larger swelling.
See a doctor for fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion after mosquito bites.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes
- Dump water weekly: Empty, scrub, or turn over anything holding water, at least once a week.
- Clean gutters: Clogged gutters are a major breeding site.
- Change birdbath water: Every few days.
- Use repellent: Choose an EPA-registered repellent, such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and follow the label.
- Fix screens: Repair holes in window and door screens.
- Wear light, loose clothing: Long sleeves and pants help at dawn and dusk.
Professional Mosquito Control
A technician can find and eliminate breeding sites and treat the shady areas where adult mosquitoes rest, such as shrubs, under decks, and along fences, on a regular schedule through the season. See our mosquito control services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mosquitoes are common in Tennessee?
The Asian tiger mosquito, which bites during the day, and house mosquitoes, which bite from dusk through the night, are among the most common.
When is mosquito season in Tennessee?
Mosquitoes are active from spring through fall and peak in the hot summer months.
Do mosquitoes in Tennessee carry diseases?
Yes. West Nile virus is detected in Tennessee most years, and mosquitoes also spread heartworm to pets.
How do I get rid of mosquitoes in my yard?
Empty standing water weekly, clean gutters, use repellent, and consider a professional treatment that targets resting areas and breeding sites.
How long does it take mosquitoes to breed?
In hot weather, mosquitoes can go from egg to biting adult in about a week, so emptying water weekly breaks the cycle.
