Black and White Mosquito Guide – What You Should Know About Asian Tiger Mosquito Bites 

When we think of mosquitoes, most of us compile them into one lump of annoying, biting pests. But like most insects, mosquitoes come in a wide variety of species – over 3,000 species, to be exact.

The Asian Tiger Mosquito, or the black and white mosquito, is one such pest that many of us know very little about.

However, this is an invasive species of mosquito that has become more and more common here in the United States.

Worse, the black and white mosquito can be a vector of serious diseases that can affect both humans and animals.

So, what should you know about the black and white mosquito? That’s what we’re here to find out.

The Black And White Mosquito – What Is An Asian Tiger Mosquito?

1 a close up of a black and white mosquito
Black and white Mosquitos are an invasive species of mosquito known as Asian Tiger Mosquitos

The Asian Tiger Mosquito is a distinct-looking species of mosquito known for its black and white patterned body and aggressive nature.

This is an invasive species of mosquito that made its way to the United States from Asia likely in the early ’80s via the transfer of human goods.

According to the UC Riverside Center For Invasive Species Research Department, Asian Tiger Mosquitoes were first discovered and eradicated before their official invasion in California during the 1970s. It is believed this pest found its way to the United States via the transfer of ornamental bamboo from China.

Though it was initially taken care of, the black and white mosquito made a strong comeback and was a full-fledged invading species in the United States by 1987.

The black and white mosquito is easy to identify thanks to its unique markings and color.

This pest is about 1/4th of an inch in length and is black with distinctive white markings and stripes on its legs and body, as well as a single white stripe going down the insect’s back.

Like all mosquitoes, Asian Tiger mosquitos prefer moist, humid climates and prefer to breed near an abundance of stagnant water.

While ponds and swamps may be most compatible with the Asian Tiger Mosquito’s living requirements, this is an adaptable pest that can be found near almost any stagnant water source including play pools, birdbaths, old tires, buckets, drains, and even over-watered gardens or grasses.

They are prolific breeders, with female Asian Tiger Mosquitos capable of laying between 40 to 150 eggs at a time after a single blood meal. With a lifespan of a few days to several weeks, this can lead to hundreds of eggs in a very short period.

Only female black and white mosquitoes bite, and they have a wide range of hosts to pick from including humans, domesticated pets like dogs, cats, and horses, as well as wild animals and birds.

Male black and white mosquitoes typically feed on nectar, making them surprisingly beneficial pollinators. The females, however, rely on iron found in blood to help aid them in reproduction.

Unfortunately, when it comes to black and white mosquitoes, they are aggressive biters and tend to swarm in large numbers.

Worse, their bite can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly. Keep reading to learn more.

Are Black And White Mosquito Bites Dangerous?

2 a mosquito biting a person 1
Like many other species of biting mosquitoes, Asian Tiger Mosquitoes can carry serious diseases.

Not only are black and white mosquito bites annoying, itchy, and sometimes painful, but they can also be dangerous.

Like many mosquito species, the Asian Tiger mosquito can carry and transmit a wide range of diseases including all four serotypes of Dengue, encephalitis, dog heartworm, West Nile Virus, and even yellow fever.

While many of these diseases are incredibly serious, yellow fever is perhaps considered the most alarming.

The good news is that, though the Asian Tiger Mosquito has been found to carry the pathogens of this disease, there has been no conclusive evidence proving the mosquito has transmitted it to humans in the United States.

With all of that being said, you still don’t want to wind up with a black and white mosquito bite. These bites, like most mosquito bites, tend to swell, itch and even burn. They can become even more irritated if you itch them incessantly, which can also lead to secondary infections and problems down the road.

But why are mosquito bites so darn itchy?

What Causes The Itch and Irritation From A Mosquito Bite?

Mosquito bites itch not so much because of what the mosquito injects into your body, but because the saliva of his bite is foreign and causes your body to react.

All people produce an amine known as histamine, which serves several important functions in the human body. Histamine works as a digestive agent, a neurotransmitter, and also a protective compound when the body encounters something foreign and potentially harmful.

Histamine is what is responsible for allergic reactions to pollen, pet dander, and insect bites and stings.

The swelling, itching, and irritation felt after a black and white mosquito bite is actually your body’s histamine rushing to the affected area in an effort to protect you from the mosquito’s saliva.

This is when bug bite creams and antihistamines can come in handy to help alleviate pain, itching, and irritation caused by mosquito bites.

However, not everyone reacts to mosquito bites equally.

In fact, some people will have little to no reaction to a black and white mosquito bite. Others can have a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that can come on suddenly and requires immediate medical attention.

Though rare, bites from a black and white mosquito can cause anaphylaxis in sensitive people. Symptoms include lightheadedness, nausea, feeling faint or weak, breathing difficulties, collapse, and loss of consciousness.

Keep an eye out for these symptoms if you or someone you are with is bitten by a black and white mosquito. If you do recognize these symptoms in yourself or someone you are with, call 911 immediately.

While it can be alarming to consider all the potential dangers of a black and white mosquito bite, the good news is that there are plenty of products and remedies you can use to prevent these pests from getting out of control.

Let’s learn more.

Best Products To Get Rid Of Black And White Mosquito Pests And Protect Yourself From Bites

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Mosquito bites in general are itchy and uncomfortable. They can often take days to heal.

Bug bites from any pest can be irritating, but there’s just something about mosquito bites that makes them especially annoying.

Worse, it’s unnerving knowing that the black and white mosquito (aka the Asian Tiger mosquito) can transmit such serious diseases through a single bite.

Unfortunately, mosquitoes are everywhere and are a likely problem no matter where you live. Fortunately, there are plenty of products you can pick from to help not only repel mosquitoes from your home and property but protect yourself and your loved ones from potential bites.

From natural bug sprays to DEET mosquito repellents, we have listed some of our favorite products for keeping the black and white mosquito at bay below.

Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

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We are big fans of the sleek and functional Thermacell E55 mosquito repeller above when it comes to getting rid of black and white Asian Tiger mosquitoes. This repeller is battery-operated and rechargeable. It’s also small, meaning it’s easy to travel with or move. This portable little mosquito repellent device works using a repellent spray that is odorless and safe to use around pets and children.

It does not release a chemical spray in the air but does repel mosquitoes using a refillable repellent application. The heat inside the repellent system is what releases the repellent, and each system can cover up to 20 feet.

OFF! Insect Spray

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DEET is one of the most commonly used ingredients in typical insect sprays and mosquito repellents and for good reason – it works. DEET is proven effective against biting bugs that can transmit diseases like Lyme disease or West Nile virus.

However, DEET is also controversial, and many have concerns about how safe it is to use around children, pets, and even in the environment. Still, experts do agree that when used as directed, DEET products are safe.

If you live in an area abundant with black and white mosquitoes, we recommend using OFF! Insect spray. This family pack comes in an order of two and is designed to be sprayed directly on the skin to protect against bites. ,

Wondercide Pest Control Spray

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Sticking to a pest control regime is important, even when it’s not mosquito season. We’ll talk more about this further down, but for now we want to highlight Wondercide Pest Control Spray.

This is an effective outdoor spray that provides long-term protection against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, roaches, ants, chiggers, crickets, Japanese beetles, and more. It works using plant-based ingredients and essential oils.

Best of all, it is environmentally friendly and perfectly safe to use around children and pets.

Best Products For How To Soothe Black And White Mosquito Bites

4 a black and white mosquito close up
Preventing a bite is the easiest way to avoid dealing with irritation or potential illness.

If you’ve already been bitten by a black and white mosquito, then you already know how itchy and irritating these bites can be. While there is no magic cream or solution available just yet to make a bug bite disappear, there are plenty of creams, ointments, and over-the-counter medications you can take to help ease the bite and help it to heal more quickly.

Of course, not all bug bite creams and medications are created equal, and the product that is right for you and your family will depend on your unique situation.

Not sure where to start? We have listed some of our favorite products to soothe mosquito bites here. Take a look!

Benadryl Extra Strength Anti-Itch Gel

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Now that we know the itching and inflammation of mosquito bites are caused by a reaction from our own histamine, it makes sense that an antihistamine like Benadryl would work to offer some relief.

The above Benadryl gel comes in an extra-strength form and helps soothe mosquito bites, poison ivy rashes, bee stings, and more. This is a topical gel that is designed to be applied directly to the affected area, making it a quick and simple solution for bug bite and itch relief.

Murphy’s Naturals Insect Bite Relief

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If you’re looking for a product that is a natural remedy to soothe bug bites, you can try Murphy’s Naturals. This is an ointment that contains plant-based ingredients including essential oils like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and eucalyptus oil to help soothe bug bites and even prevent black and white mosquitoes from biting again.

This product is safe to use on children and is free of fragrances, dyes, synthetics, or chemicals. It also smells pretty good, which is always a plus!

Home Remedies For Black And White Mosquito Bites and Control

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Ice can help remedy the pain and itchiness of a mosquito bite, but it won’t prevent future bites.

The Asian Tiger mosquito is a highly adaptable pest that can thrive in a number of environments. Furthermore, black and white mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water sources, and these eggs are capable of overwintering until the weather is conducive to them hatching.

This means that, depending on where you live, black and white mosquitoes could be a year-round problem for you.

If you’re in a pinch or would like to use home remedies or do-it-yourself pest control methods to get rid of black and white mosquitoes and prevent their bites, we have you covered.

Home Remedies For Black And White Mosquito Prevention And Control

 

  • Wear Long Sleeves and Pants
  • Some home remedies are less complicated than you might think, and wearing clothes with more coverage is one of those simple remedies you can use to prevent mosquito bites. Wear long pants and sleeves made of thickly woven materials to prevent bites, and avoid lighter materials like nylon, as mosquitoes can bite right through these types of fabrics.

 

  • Plant Pest Repellent Plants In Your Yard and Garden
  • A great and natural way to repel mosquitoes and make your yard less hospitable to them is to plant mosquito repellent plants in your yard. There are a variety of plants mosquitoes hate, but the most common include peppermint, garlic, onion, lavender, and chives.

 

  • Remove Excess Water Sources Around Your Home
  • As we’ve covered above, mosquitoes prefer areas with lots of stagnant water. This is because they breed and lay their eggs in stagnant water, as their nymphs are strictly aquatic until they emerge from their pupae state.

To reduce the number of black and white mosquitoes on your property, be sure to get rid of or filter out any stagnant water sources. This includes stagnant water from birdbaths, pet water bowls, gutters, kiddie pools, and fountains.

 

  • Wear Essential Oils Like Peppermint Oil or Eucalyptus Oil When Outside
  • Essential oils can make an excellent and quick mosquito repellent for those on the go. Oils like eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, citrus oil, cedarwood oil, and cinnamon oil can help repel mosquitoes and even other pests like gnats, fleas, and ticks.

However, this method is not foolproof and we don’t recommend you rely on wearing essential oils alone as a black and white mosquito repellent. This is especially true if you live in an area where these pests are abundant.

 

  • Make Your Own Mosquito Repellent Spray
  • If you’re feeling crafty, it’s possible to make your own mosquito spray to repel black and white mosquitoes.

You will need:

  • 1 cup of distilled water
  • 1 spray bottle
  • 10 drops of tea tree oil
  • 5 drops of lavender oil
  • 5 drops of lemongrass oil
  • 10 drops of citronella oil
  • 15 drops of eucalyptus oil
  • 1 cup of witch hazel
  • And 1 spray bottle

Mix the above ingredients into the spray bottle and apply a small portion to your skin to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction to the spray, as some people can have more sensitive skin when exposed to essential oils.

Once you’re certain you will not have a reaction to the spray, you can apply it all over. The product will need to be reapplied every hour or so to help repel mosquitoes and other pests like fleas, ticks, gnats, and chiggers.

  • Use Garlic and Water
  • If you would prefer using a more simple method for how to get rid of black and white mosquitoes, you can always try garlic and water. Crush or mince several garlic cloves and allow them to steep in boiling water for about thirty minutes. You may also add cayenne or a few drops of essential oil of your choice.

Then pour this solution into a spray bottle and spray it around the perimeter of your home. You can also pour the solution into a bowl or tin and set it near you when you’re outside to help reduce bites and repel black and white mosquitoes.

 

  • Pour Some Vegetable Oil In Backyard Ponds
  • Vegetable oil will kill mosquito eggs and larvae, but it is harmless to wildlife and plant life. This is an excellent home remedy for black and white mosquito prevention and control you can use year-round. Be sure to do some research so you know how much vegetable oil you should pour into your pond based on the pond’s size.

Home Remedies For Black And White Mosquito Bites

 

  • Oatmeal
  • Oatmeal is a breakfast staple in many households, but did you know oatmeal also makes a wonderful and soothing solution to black and white mosquito bites? Oatmeal naturally has healing and anti-itching properties that can help to calm your skin and soothe an itchy or inflamed bug bite.

You can use oatmeal in a few different ways when it comes to soothing the bites.

You can either combine the oats with a small amount of water to make a thick paste and apply it directly to the black and white mosquito bite. Or, for more severe bites or for bites all over the body, you can pour one cup of oatmeal in the bath and take a nice oatmeal bath for about half an hour.

 

  • Crushed Ice
  • Crushed ice is one of the most simple forms of DIY mosquito bite remedies because it’s so easy to come by. While the ice may not provide long-lasting relief from a black and white mosquito bite, it can provide instant relief from swelling, itching, and burning.

Apply the ice to the bite for no longer than a minute at a time to numb the area and reduce itching.

 

  • Baking Soda and Water
  • Many bug bite creams and remedies contain the active ingredient sodium bicarbonate, which is simply the fancy name for baking soda. Baking soda contains alkaline components that help to calm your skin and neutralize your skin’s pH balance. This can help fight infection and even reduce pain, itching, and swelling from a bite or sting.

To use baking soda for a black and white mosquito bite, mix it with water until it creates a thick paste, and then apply it directly to the bite. Allow it to dry and leave it for a while.

 

  • Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Apple cider vinegar has exploded in popularity over the past few years, and while we love it for cooking, digestive health and cleaning, we also love it as a natural bug bite soother and wound healer.

Simply saturate a cotton ball with the vinegar and hold it directly to the black and white mosquito bite for about thirty seconds. The vinegar will help to reduce inflammation, stop itching, and may even sanitize the area if you have been scratching at it.

 

  • Honey
  • Last but not least, we have honey. Honey contains natural antioxidants and antibacterial properties. It can also work as a healing and soothing remedy to wounds and bites.

The best honey for black and white mosquito bites is going to be raw or organic honey. Apply a small amount to the bite and allow it to dry. You may reapply it as needed.

 

Keeping Black And White Mosquitos At Bay For Good – What Do The Experts Say?

6 a mosquito drinking blood
To keep from getting bitten in the future by black and white mosquitoes, there are some tips experts recommend you follow.

The unfortunate truth is that black and white mosquitoes are likely here to stay. The best thing you can do for yourself and your loved ones is to reclaim your space by making your home and property less hospitable to them.

Along with using methods to get rid of black and white mosquitoes and products to soothe their bites, we have also listed a few tips and tricks experts recommend you follow to prevent black and white mosquitoes from getting out of control in the future.

Remove Excess Water Sources Outside Of Your Home

First and foremost, you’re going to want to remove any excess water sources around your property. Remember, black and white mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, and almost any stagnant water will suffice.

This includes water from bird feeders, dog or cat water bowls, backyard ponds, children’s play pools, overturned buckets, empty flower pots, or even old tires.

If you have a backyard pond, we suggest investing in mosquito dunks or learning more about home remedies you can use to protect your pond from mosquito larvae.

For bird fountains, be sure to refresh the water daily. Refrain from overwatering your grass or garden and keep your gutters free of clogs or buildup that could lead to sitting water over time.

Plant Mosquito Repellent Plants In Your Yard and Garden

One of the easiest and perhaps most fun ways to repel mosquitoes is to use companion planting in your yard and garden. This is an excellent tool organic gardeners can implement, as this method is environmentally safe, chemical-free, and even therapeutic.

We did touch on a few mosquito repellent plants above, but there are many more you might consider, including:

  • Lavender
  • Catnip
  • Catnip
  • Mint
  • Bee Balm
  • Citronella
  • Basil
  • Rosemary
  • Chives
  • Scented Geraniums
  • And Sagebug

Invite The Predators

Mosquitoes are certainly nasty little pests, but they are a tasty treat in the eyes of some animals. In fact, mosquitoes have several common predators and these predators would likely be more than happy to help you get rid of them.

Some of the most common predators for mosquitoes include:

  • Birds
  • Bats
  • Dragonflies
  • Damselflies
  • And Crane Flies

Use A Pest Control Regimen Year-Round

Last, you must keep up with routine pest control year-round. Some regions of the United States do experience a mosquito season while others deal with mosquitoes year-round.

Whether or not you’re battling these annoying bugs full time or part time, it’s a good idea to keep up with routine pest control. Ensuring you are constantly on top of pest prevention will mean that you’ll spend less time and money in the future when these black and white mosquito pests come around.

And there you have it – this was your black and white mosquito guide.

Now we are curious to hear from you. Did you know that the Asian Tiger Mosquito was such a problematic pest here in the United States?

Share your thoughts with us about this annoying pest in the comment section. Thanks for reading!

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