Understanding Maryland’s 4 Most Common Mosquitoes
With over 50 native mosquito species, Maryland’s humid climate and diverse ecosystems create ideal breeding conditions. From the Chesapeake Bay wetlands to Baltimore suburbs, different mosquito types in Maryland thrive in various environments. Understanding these species is crucial for effective pest control and disease prevention. Here we’ll cover Maryland’s 4 most common mosquitoes.
1. Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus)
Identification: Black body with white striped legs
Habitat: Urban areas (tires, flower pots, gutters)
Activity: Daytime feeders (peak at dawn/dusk)
Health Risks: Zika virus, Dengue, Chikungunya
Did you know? This invasive species arrived in Maryland in 1987 and now dominates urban areas.
2. Common House Mosquito (Culex pipiens)
Identification: Brown with white markings
Habitat: Polluted standing water
Activity: Night-biting
Health Risks: West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis
Prevention Tip: Regularly clean bird baths and clogged gutters – Learn more about mosquito-proofing your home
3. Eastern Saltmarsh (Aedes sollicitans)
Identification: Golden-brown coloration
Habitat: Coastal regions
Activity: Aggressive daytime biter
Range: Found throughout Chesapeake Bay area
4. Winter Mosquito (Culiseta melanura)
Identification: Larger size, dark coloration
Habitat: Wooded swamps
Unique Feature: Active in cooler temperatures
Health Role: Primary vector for Eastern Equine Encephalitis
Health Risks from Maryland Mosquitoes
| Species | Biting Time | Primary Habitat | Disease Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Tiger | Day | Urban containers | Zika, Dengue |
| Common House | Night | Standing water | West Nile Virus |
| Eastern Saltmarsh | Day | Coastal marshes | Dog Heartworm |
| Winter Mosquito | Dusk/Dawn | Wooded swamps | Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) |
Maryland mosquitoes transmit several serious diseases:
- West Nile Virus (40% fatality rate in severe cases)
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
- Dog heartworm (affects 1 in 100 MD dogs annually)
- Zika virus (rare but possible)
Recent Outbreak: In 2023, Maryland reported 12 West Nile cases across three counties.