West Nile Virus Mosquito Species of Contra Costa County
The Culex pipiens (commonly known as the House Mosquito) and Culex tarsalis (commonly known as the Western Encephalitis Mosquito) are the two species of mosquitoes responsible for acquiring and transmitting West Nile virus in Contra Costa county.
What does a Culex pipiens mosquito look like?
The Culex pipiens mosquito is considered to be a medium-sized mosquito, the adult Culex pipiens may reach up ¼”. The House mosquito species' body is usually brownish or grayish brown. The proboscis and wings are usually brown.
West Nile Virus Mosquito Species of Contra Costa County
The Culex pipiens (commonly known as the House Mosquito) and Culex tarsalis (commonly known as the Western Encephalitis Mosquito) are the two species of mosquitoes responsible for acquiring and transmitting West Nile virus in Contra Costa county.
What does a Culex pipiens mosquito look like?
The Culex pipiens mosquito is considered to be a medium-sized mosquito, the adult Culex pipiens may reach up ¼”. The House mosquito species' body is usually brownish or grayish brown. The proboscis and wings are usually brown.
What does a Culex tarsalis mosquito look like?
The Culex tarsalis mosquito is a black mosquito distinguished by a white band on its proboscis, as well as white bands on its tarsal joints. It also has white longitudinal stripes extending along the middle and hind legs, and dark chevron patterns along the underside of its abdominal segments.
How can I prevent Culex pipiens or Culex tarsalis mosquitoes?
Help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths on a regular basis. Be sure swimming pools and ornamental ponds are filtered and properly maintained. Do not over-water lawns or landscaping since standing water in catch basins will contribute to mosquito production.
Residents of Contra Costa County can also contact the District by phone to report neighborhood mosquito problems or to request a free inspection: (925) 685-9301 or make a service request.