Beware: Asian Tiger Mosquito in Arkansas on the Rise

Cicadas have dominated the news these past few months as the two broods of cicadas begin to emerge in Arkansas over the next several weeks. But to tell you the truth I'm more concerned about the Asian Tiger Mosquitos.

Asian Tiger Mosquito

Unlike cicadas that can't harm you Asian Tiger Mosquitos carry life-threatening diseases such as the West Nile Virus, Zika Virus, and more. Over the past several years there has been an uptick of the Asian Tiger Mosquito in Arkansas mainly in the Northwest part of the state.

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When it comes to any kind of mosquito I'm like a human magnet to them. Studies have shown that mosquitoes are drawn to several different blood types if you have Type A or O you are most likely to get bitten, in Type B you are 50 percent less likely to get bitten.

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These little blood suckers can cause welts on your skin that could last for days, the Asian Tiger Mosquito is identified by the black and white stripes on its body, these mosquitos also go by another name "ankle biters" because they fly lower to the ground biting you around the ankles or elbow. Most typical mosquitos come out at dusk or dawn but the Asian Tiger Mosquito can light you up any time of the day or night, wearing tight-fitting jeans or long sleeves won't prevent these little vampires from biting through your clothing. These mosquitos can also bite you multiple times even pets and animals are susceptible to being bit as well.

Good News

The Asian Tiger Mosquito is not a dominant species in Arkansas most likely it's an "Upland Flood Water Mosquito" found throughout much of the South and around the world. So, Do I don't think we will have a mosquito invasion anytime soon? No, not at this time but you never know.

There's nothing worse than planning an outdoor event only to have your activities ruined by pesky mosquitos. Between the mosquitoes and flies it can spoil your mood real quick.

What Can You Do?

The best advice for avoiding an invasion of mosquitos in your yard is to check any standing water bird baths, old tires, puddles, pottery, and trash cans, these are all prime places where mosquitos love to breed and lay their eggs, it doesn't take much water at all. Of course, there are plenty of sprays, repellants, and other natural deterrents to help keep them away but they only hold them off for a while.

Have you seen any Asian Tiger Mosquitoes in your yard?

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Plant Some Of These In Your Garden to Keep Mosquitoes Away

As we previously told you, mosquitoes are the most dangerous creatures on earth. If you want to keep them away from you're yard, these plants can help!

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

Filed Under: Arkansas mosquitoes, Asian Tiger Mosquito

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