Mosquitoes are largely identified by their itchy blood-sucking bites. Female mosquitoes will use their proboscis to penetrate skin and feed on the blood of humans, mammals, and small birds. These bites often cause marks and itchy bumps on the skin, but can also transmit several diseases worldwide. Fortunately, mosquito-borne disease in Memphis TN Metro Area is rare. Either way, knowledge about mosquitoes and their impact on humans and animals is worth knowing.
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?
Although we use the word “biting,” for mosquitoes, the female mosquito is piercing your skin with a needle-like proboscis. Female mosquitoes bite to retrieve the nutrients within our blood. The nutrients in the blood are a necessary component of egg development. Once a female mosquito bites, she is then able to breed and lay her eggs. With this in mind, male mosquitoes do not bite. Unlike the single tube in a hypodermic syringe, the proboscis contains two tubes. One tube injects saliva. This saliva contains a unique mix of chemicals that help reduce pain, thin blood, and prevent it from clotting. The other tube is then used to suck up the blood and ingest it.
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Mosquito Bite Symptoms in Memphis TN Metro Area
Mosquito bites most frequently occur on exposed parts of the body. The most common mosquito bite symptoms include:
- Pinkish-red bumps that are itchy will form just minutes after the mosquito pierces the skin.
- Over the next day or two, these bumps can become more red and dark.
- The bump from a mosquito bite is less than ½ inch across.
- The most common mosquito bite symptom is itching. Scratching at the bites can worsen the symptoms and cause bruising or rashes.
- In severe cases, fever, severe headaches, nausea, and fatigue can be a sign of a serious problem. Always consult a medical professional when experiencing these symptoms.
Do Mosquitoes Bite Dogs or Cats?
Yes, mosquitoes can and will bite your pets, including dogs, cats, and more. Cats have a thick coat of fur, so they are less likely to get bitten. However, cats can be bitten on their ears or nose. Dogs can be bitten more easily by mosquitoes. Pets can have the same reaction to bites as humans – ranging from irritating marks and transmission of disease. Should you become concerned about the impact mosquitoes are having on your livelihood, a professional mosquito exterminator is available to help!
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