Asian Tiger Mosquito
Aedes albopictus · Biting Insect
Aedes albopictus
Biting Insect
1/8 to 3/16 inch
Black with distinctive white stripes on legs and thorax
2 to 4 weeks adult
About the Asian Tiger Mosquito
The Asian tiger mosquito is an invasive day-biting mosquito now established throughout Metro Detroit. Unlike native Michigan mosquitoes (Culex species) that bite at dusk and dawn, Asian tiger mosquitoes bite aggressively throughout the day. They breed in tiny amounts of standing water (bottle caps, plant saucers, tire rims, clogged gutters) and transmit West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and potentially Zika and Chikungunya.
Habits & Behavior
Asian tiger mosquitoes breed in containers holding as little as one tablespoon of standing water. Egg-to-adult cycle is 7 to 10 days. Females bite multiple hosts per blood meal, making them efficient disease vectors. They rest on vegetation within 100 feet of breeding sites. Daytime activity peaks from 10 am to 4 pm.
Signs of a Asian Tiger Mosquito Infestation
Aggressive daytime biting in backyards, patios, and wooded areas
Black mosquitoes with distinct white stripes
Mosquito larvae wriggling in containers holding standing water
Heavy mosquito activity around thick shrubs, shaded corners, and wooded edges
Asian Tiger Mosquito Pressure in Michigan
Asian tiger mosquitoes are established throughout Metro Detroit and expanding. They are active May through October. Peak season is mid-July through early September. Heavily landscaped properties with dense shrubs, koi ponds, rain barrels, abandoned pots, and clogged gutters produce the heaviest populations. Also carries West Nile virus and EEE, both periodically detected in Michigan.
How BTR Treats Asian Tiger Mosquito Infestations
BTR uses perimeter mosquito reduction with residual chemistry targeting mosquito resting sites (vegetation, fences, under decks, shaded eaves, shrubs). Monthly treatments from May through October provide 85 to 95 percent population reduction. Combined with standing water elimination, treatments create near-mosquito-free backyards.
Prevention Tips
Eliminate all standing water weekly. Empty plant saucers, bird baths, pet water bowls, and kiddie pools. Clean clogged gutters. Drill holes in tire rims or recycle old tires. Screen rain barrels. Treat ornamental ponds with mosquito dunks (Bti). Apply EPA-registered mosquito repellents when outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Tiger Mosquitos
Why do mosquitoes bite me during the day now?
Metro Detroit now has established populations of the invasive Asian tiger mosquito, which bites aggressively during daytime hours. Native Michigan mosquitoes primarily bite at dusk and dawn. The combination means Metro Detroit mosquito exposure now runs from sunrise through sunset.
What diseases do Michigan mosquitoes carry?
Michigan mosquitoes transmit West Nile virus (widespread), Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) (rare but serious), and occasionally Jamestown Canyon virus. Asian tiger mosquitoes can transmit Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue in travelers but these diseases are not currently established in Michigan.
How does BTR mosquito treatment work?
BTR mosquito treatment targets resting sites (vegetation, fences, under decks, shaded eaves) with residual chemistry that kills mosquitoes on contact and persists for 3 to 4 weeks. Monthly treatments from May through October reduce backyard mosquito populations by 85 to 95 percent. BTR never treats flowering plants, protecting bees and butterflies.
How often does BTR apply mosquito treatment?
Monthly treatments from May through October (6 applications) provide the best mosquito reduction. Treatments can be scheduled every 21 to 28 days for extreme mosquito pressure properties. Single-treatment event services are available for weddings, graduations, and backyard gatherings.
Are BTR mosquito treatments safe for pets and kids?
Yes. BTR uses EPA-approved, stainless, odorless products that are safe when dry (about 30 minutes after application). Kids and pets can return to treated yards once the application has dried. We never treat flowering plants that pollinators visit.
Asian Tiger Mosquito Problem? BTR Can Help Today
Free inspection. Licensed Michigan exterminators. 90-day warranty on most services.