Professional Mosquito Trapping: Basics, Benefits & More

How Professional Mosquito Trapping Works

Mosquitoes are more than just pesky insects that cause itchy bites in the summer months – they can also transmit harmful diseases, making them a threat to public health. Professional mosquito trapping is utilized by experts to gain a better understanding of the local adult mosquito population and determine if a potential disease threat exists. Professional mosquito traps serve as important tools to determine the mosquito life stage, species, and population size in a particular area. Once adult and immature mosquitoes are collected, they are sorted, counted, analyzed, and tested for disease so we can gather vital data that can help form more effective Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) programs to better protect our communities from mosquito-borne diseases.

What is Mosquito Trapping?

Our entomologists employ mosquito surveillance to better understand the local mosquito populations in a given area. Adult mosquito surveillance typically includes weekly trapping of adult mosquitoes in a given area. The goal of mosquito trapping is to create a baseline of the current mosquito population, identify any population shift, understand the mosquito species distribution in an area, and monitor the threat of mosquito-borne diseases. There are various professional mosquito traps available, and each one is designed to target specific mosquito species. Determining which one to use depends on the information desired. Once the mosquitoes are captured, they are brought back to the lab for counting, species identification, and disease testing. Ongoing professional mosquito trapping helps us know when and where we need to spray to keep populations under control and when there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Selecting The Right Type of Mosquito Traps

Selecting the right type of mosquito trap is an important aspect of mosquito surveillance. There are various types of mosquito traps. Some are designed to capture specific mosquito species or individuals during a certain life stage (host-seeking versus gravid), while others can capture a wide range of species. By using the appropriate professional mosquito trap, our entomologists can collect accurate data on local mosquito populations and determine if there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

CDC Trap

CDC traps are widely used in adult mosquito surveillance. These mosquito traps are portable and run on a 6V battery with a motorized fan to collect mosquitoes. The most common model comes with a small adjustable light and may be supplemented with dry ice, which releases carbon dioxide (CO2), thereby acting as a mosquito bait source to mimic the exhaled respiratory gases of birds or mammals. Once drawn in, the mosquitoes are forced downward by the fan into the collection net, where they cannot escape. CDC traps are typically deployed at dusk and collected after dawn to gather data when most mosquito species are active.

BG-Sentinel Trap

The BG-Sentinel trap is a specially designed mosquito trap that targets two particular mosquito species: Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti, which are known for transmitting viruses like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. These mosquito species are common in urban environments and breed in natural and artificial containers. The BG-Sentinel trap is made up of a tarp-like material and is about the size of a five-gallon bucket. It uses an attractant such as Octenol lure, human scent lure, or CO2 to lure mosquitoes towards the trap. Once the mosquitoes are in the vicinity, a funnel located at the top of the professional mosquito trap directs them toward an electric fan (outlet or battery-powered) that pulls them into a collection net.

Gravid Trap

Gravid traps are specifically designed to capture gravid (egg-laying) Culex mosquitoes, including Culex tarsalis and Culex pipiens, which are capable of transmitting diseases like West Nile virus, St. Louis Encephalitis, and both Western and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Many Culex species are attracted to water containing high organic material to lay their eggs. Gravid traps utilize a black bucket containing an organic infusion, like grass or hay, that has been left to ferment for several days to mimic stagnant water. Once inside the bucket, a battery-powered fan pulls the mosquito into a collection net. To prevent the trap from becoming a breeding site, it’s important to drain the water attractant from the trap on days when no mosquito trapping is taking place, especially if the trap is located near residential areas.

New Jersey Light Trap

The New Jersey light trap is a versatile mosquito trap that can capture large quantities of mosquitoes and a wide range of species, making it an excellent tool for mosquito surveillance programs. The variety of mosquito species caught can help determine the relative mosquito populations in an area, identify local mosquito vectors, and assist technicians in finding breeding sources. It is best used as a permanent trap and should be securely mounted about five to six feet above the ground and powered by an outlet. The New Jersey Light Trap utilizes a bright light and pulls mosquitoes into the trap via a fan. Dry ice can also be used as an attractant by suspending it above the mosquito trap in a vented container. The attractants in this professional mosquito trap tend to attract

Traps that Aren't Effective for Mosquito Surveillance

It’s important to note that professional mosquito trapping is part of a mosquito surveillance program designed to gather data on the local mosquito population. Professional mosquito traps are not the same as bug zappers or sticky mosquito traps that homeowners may use to control mosquitoes on their property. Bug zappers and sticky traps are not effective for mosquito surveillance. These traps attract a variety of other insects, which can make it difficult for professionals to form an accurate population count. Moreover, few mosquitoes are attracted to these traps, and those that are often have significant damage to their bodies, making them ineffective for mosquito surveillance purposes.

Mosquito Trapping Step-By-Step

Trapping plays a crucial role in our mosquito surveillance programs, helping us better understand the activity of the local mosquito population and develop action thresholds to determine the right time to deploy control strategies. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how VDCI conducts mosquito trapping:

Our team determines the best locations to set mosquito traps to cast a wide net for mosquito surveillance.
Based on the environment or targeted mosquitoes, we employ the type of mosquito trap needed for surveillance. Mosquito trapping is often conducted weekly over several months to ensure we get an accurate representation of the mosquito population and to understand the mosquito seasonality changes for the particular region.
Once the mosquitoes are captured, they are taken back to the lab for counting and species identification or to undergo insecticide resistance testing or disease testing.
Based on the results from these tests, our entomologists will recommend control strategies to decision-makers to ensure mosquito populations do not reach dangerous or nuisance levels.

By employing mosquito trapping as part of an IMM plan, we can provide community leaders and government entities the information they need to protect their citizens from mosquito-borne diseases and help them enjoy the outdoors.

Why Professional Mosquito Trapping Matters

Mosquito trapping is an essential part of any successful IMM program. Comprehensive mosquito surveillance helps monitor population levels, identify mosquito species in an area, and identify potential disease risks.

Professional mosquito trapping data can also be used to determine if the population levels exceed the average number in the area or if there is a mosquito-borne disease present, and control strategies need to be deployed. This ensures our control strategies are as effective and environmentally responsible as possible. The role trapping plays in mosquito surveillance programs is crucial to our IMM programs – helping us to protect public health and keep our communities safe.

Contact Our Experts

Complete the form below to speak to an expert about your community’s mosquito management needs.

Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.

Integrated Mosquito Management

Analyzing Mosquito Larvae to Drive Decision-Making

How larval surveillance and lab analysis help support mosquito management programs

Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance, but they can transmit dangerous diseases that have a significant impact on human health. That’s why monitoring and controlling their populations is crucial. One of the most effective ways to do this is through an Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program.

There are four pillars of an IMM program, one being surveillance of both larvae and adult mosquitoes. Through larval surveillance, experts can identify and eliminate potential problem areas before the larvae have a chance to become adults. This process also involves collecting mosquito larvae from various breeding sites and testing larvae for insecticide resistance. With the data collected, experts can implement more effective control measures. Keep reading as we explore the importance of mosquito surveillance and how it can help protect public health.

How Larval Surveillance and Lab Testing Works

Larval surveillance is the process of monitoring the growth and development of immature insects, particularly mosquitoes, to gain a better understanding of the local population dynamics and if they are resistant to commonly used larvicides. Let’s break down how the larval surveillance process works:

Mosquitoes require standing water to breed. With this in mind, experts search for common larvae sites throughout a community, like ditches, tires, marshes, bird baths, and more. Our entomologists identify mosquito larvae in water and collect them via a dip cup or a tubular suction devices for examination.
We then bring larvae back to the lab, where they undergo efficacy testing. Our entomologists conduct insecticide resistance testing to ensure the larvae aren’t resistant to common larvicides.
Some larvae are set aside in our “mosquito room,” a dedicated space used to house larvae and adults for further testing, and are kept warm to mimic the ideal habitat for mosquitoes.
After placing the larvae in the room, our entomologists wait for them to develop into adults for additional insecticide resistance testing. If resistance is identified, experts can modify their control strategies to help ensure the most effective intervention strategies are used.

Why Larval Surveillance

Larval surveillance is vital to every IMM program. This critical strategy helps not only combat insecticide resistance, but it helps us identify problem areas with abundant breeding sites and implement solutions like source reduction or habitat modification. By identifying mosquito habitats and conducting efficacy testing, our experts can leverage this data and their expertise to build more effective IMM programs.

Mosquito surveillance allows us to gain a better understanding of larval habitats and the breeding behaviors of adult mosquitoes. Through our field analysis and testing, we can take a proactive approach to mosquito management by reducing the amount of larvae that make it to adulthood and reduce the number of vectors capable of spreading pathogesn. In addition, by testing mosquitoes for insecticide resistance as larvae and adults, we can ensure we are conducting applications using effective EPA-registered larvicides that provide lasting control solutions.

Protecting Your Citizens Together

At VDCI, we know that mosquito surveillance is one of the most important aspects of an effective Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) plan. Our entomologists gather data that allows public health officials to identify areas at risk, track local mosquito populations, and implement targeted control measures to reduce the impact of nuisance and potentially disease-carrying mosquitoes. As a company licensed in public health, we’re here to help community leaders keep public spaces safe and protected from mosquito-borne diseases.

Contact Our Experts

Complete the form below or call us at 800-413-4445 to speak to an expert about your community’s mosquito management needs.

Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.

Integrated Mosquito Management

4 Ways Government Leaders Can Help Protect Their Citizens from Mosquitoes

Utilizing An Integrated Management Approach for Effective Control

As stewards of public health and wellbeing, government leaders shoulder the responsibility of protecting citizens from health threats posed by mosquitoes as well as ensuring they can enjoy time spent outdoors. These tiny pests can become a major nuisance and certain species transmit dangerous pathogens that can cause diseases such as West Nile, yellow fever, Zika, Eastern equine encephalitis, and dengue. With public health and quality of life on the line, government leaders can make significant strides in safeguarding their communities by engaging with a mosquito management partner that specializes in Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM).

Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) is committed to protecting public health through strategic partnerships and effective IMM programs. Integrated mosquito management is a foundational, environmentally responsible approach to mosquito management that encompasses four essential pillars: surveillance and disease testing, larval control, adult mosquito control, and public education.

#1 Mosquito surveillance and disease testing

Mosquito species have different host preferences, feeding times, habitats, and pathogen-carrying capacities. Identifying and understanding their unique biological behavior is key to effectively managing them. Mosquito surveillance involves vigilant monitoring of adult and larval mosquito populations, with all data recorded in VDCI’s proprietary database. This hinges on meticulous data collection and laboratory testing. Surveillance strategies can vary depending on the mosquito life cycle stage. Mosquito control specialists analyze parameters such as species distribution, population density, disease prevalence, and insecticide resistance in the specified area, enabling well-informed decisions for strategic intervention.

#2 Larval mosquito control

By proactively identifying areas conducive to mosquito breeding, such as ditches, ponds, and stormwater drains via surveillance, experts can tailor and implement specific larval mosquito control solutions. These solutions may involve source reduction, habitat modification, and the introduction of natural predators such as mosquitofish. In certain cases, EPA-registered larvicides may be applied from the ground or air to help ensure sustainable larval control.

#3 Adult mosquito control

While mosquito surveillance and larviciding are initial steps in any mosquito control program, managing adult mosquito populations is a vital aspect of integrated management.

Weekly mosquito trapping is crucial to monitor adult populations. This proactive approach involves setting specialized traps to regularly observe population levels, species dynamics, and disease presence, thereby providing professionals the necessary information to promptly intervene before adult populations escalate beyond control.

When nuisance mosquito populations reach unacceptable levels or the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses is high, adulticides may be employed. Utilizing data obtained through trapping and other assessments, experts can conduct precise applications of insecticides to specific locations for safe and effective mosquito control.

#4 Public education

Public education plays a pivotal role in the success and continual progress of mosquito control efforts. To effectively protect the public from mosquito-borne diseases, citizens are urged to follow The 4Ds: Drain, Dress, Defend, and Dusk and Dawn. Encouraging individuals to drain standing water, wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times can significantly help mitigate the risk of mosquito bites and disease transmission. VDCI regularly coordinates with government agencies, media, public health departments, and other organizations to disseminate timely educational resources.

Protect Public Health with an Integrated Approach to Mosquito Management

For government leaders, a successful mosquito control program reflects proactive leadership, portraying them as vigilant guardians of public health rather than merely addressing a nuisance. Partnering with an adept mosquito control company specializing in integrated management allows leaders to reclaim valuable time that would otherwise be consumed addressing complaints and health issues linked to mosquito-borne illnesses. This collaboration not only fosters a healthier, safer community but also elevates the overall quality of life for citizens.

Contact Our Experts

Complete the form below or call us at 800-413-4445 to speak to an expert about your community’s mosquito management needs.

Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.

Integrated Mosquito Management

Adult Mosquito Control Best-Practices

ULV Mosquito Spraying Explained

Mosquito populations can get out of hand very quickly. Even in small numbers, mosquitoes can endanger communities by spreading infectious diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and Yellow Fever. Through professional Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) programs, experts are able to monitor population levels and take action when thresholds are surpassed. Often, this means applying EPA-registered adulticides through ULV spraying to keep mosquitoes in check using industrial mosquito spray techniques. These products are an essential part of an environmentally-friendly Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program and offer an effective and low-risk solution to helping manage nuisance mosquito populations. Industrial mosquito spray methods are a key component of environmentally-friendly Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) programs.

What is ULV Spraying?

ULV stands for ultra-low volume sprays, a common industrial mosquito spray technique. When applied with ULV equipment via truck, backpack foggers, or plane, adulticides remain suspended in the air as fine aerosol droplets. These droplets kill mosquitoes on contact as they fly through the target area. A primary benefit of ULV sprays is adulticide optimization. Very little product is necessary to treat large areas of land, typically less than one ounce per acre. This industrial mosquito spray method ensures effective coverage with minimal product use.

Are there any risks to using ULV spraying for mosquito control?

Numerous, peer-reviewed, articles indicate that industrial mosquito spray applications, including ULV spraying, do not pose a significant risk to humans or non-target insects. In one study (Effects of single and multiple applications of mosquito insecticides on non target arthropods, Davis and Peterson, 2008), the researchers determined that “measurable and persistent biological effects on non-target arthropods, exposed to larvicides and adulticides applied via ULV sprayer would be small. Also in an article published by the CDC (Human Exposure to Mosquito-Control Pesticides — Mississippi, North Carolina, and Virginia, 2005), the researchers measured the pesticide metabolite concentrations in urine of people pre-and post-application. And it was determined that “ULV application in mosquito control activities did not result in substantial pesticide exposure to humans”. In contrast, they were able to show an “association between home and/or work application of pesticides and pesticide metabolite concentrations”. In other words, individuals are far more likely to have pesticide exposure from home and work-related uses of pesticides than from ULV mosquito control efforts.

In another study (A Human-Health Risk Assessment for West Nile Virus and Insecticides Used in Mosquito Management, Peterson et al., 2006), the researchers state, “Results from our risk assessment and the current weight of scientific evidence indicate that human-health risks from residential exposure to mosquito insecticides are low and are not likely to exceed levels of concern. Further, our results indicate that, based on human health criteria, the risks from WNV exceed the risks from exposure to mosquito insecticides.” This work is extremely important, as they were able to determine that the risk of adverse health impacts from contracting WNV is greater than the risk of health impacts from the pesticides used to control WNV vectors. This is just a small sample of the published scientific literature regarding the potential harmful effects of our mosquito control applications.

These findings reinforce the safety and necessity of industrial mosquito spray efforts in public health applications.

ULV Spraying as Part of a Professional IMM Program

Industrial mosquito spray applications using adulticides are an effective and necessary tool to combat mosquito populations. When applied as part of an IMM program, the products are also utilized alongside other important strategies, including larval control, public education, and surveillance and disease testing. These solutions help make adulticide industrial mosquito spray applications more impactful while supporting more long-lasting results.

Professionals lean on the data compiled during surveillance and disease testing to inform their decision to intervene. Surveillance data is gathered through weekly trapping, and different types of traps can be used depending on the species that are being monitored. Once collected, each mosquito is identified and examined for disease. Understanding the unique species bionomics and disease threat helps professionals determine ULV spraying needs. Using science allows professionals to spray the right amount, at the right place, at the right time.

During the application process, GPS technologies play an important role. GPS tracking units create spray maps to help ensure even product coverage. This information can also be shared with the public. For successful control in large communities, ULV spray applications may be paired with residual “barrier” treatments via backpack applicators near homes and areas where mosquitoes tend to concentrate. Industrial mosquito spray equipment, such as trucks and aerial systems, can also be used to target adult mosquitoes across large areas of land.

How VDCI Utilizes ULV Spraying

When used as part of a comprehensive Integrated Mosquito Management program, ULV spraying, an industrial mosquito spray solution, is a necessary and highly effective method for reestablishing mosquito populations to more manageable levels. These tools and solutions can provide more long-lasting protection and reduce the risk of insecticide resistance. VDCI is committed to choosing strategies that support our goal to protect people, preserve the environment, and maximize the impact of our essential adulticide products.

We own and operate the nation’s most robust fleet of industrial mosquito spray trucks, backpack sprayers, and aircraft dedicated to mosquito management and prevention. State entities, municipalities, and other community groups can rest assured that all equipment is properly calibrated and maintained to dispense proper droplet sizes at appropriate rates to achieve the highest level of mosquito control possible.

Contact Our Experts

Fill out the form below or call our experts at 866.977.6964 so that they can help you develop a custom IMM program to meet your community’s needs.

Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.

Integrated Mosquito Management

The 4Ds: How Your Community Can Help Prevent Mosquito Breeding and Bites

It’s common to spend time in nature to relax and reset, but silent threats like mosquitoes can make this difficult and even dangerous. One of the reasons mosquitoes so often plague our outdoor activities is because they are highly efficient at reproducing. Anywhere water collects—from a stagnant pond to a tiny puddle in the sidewalk—can become an active breeding ground for mosquitoes. Therefore, community members play a vital role in the elimination of standing water, as well as the protection of themselves and their families from vector-borne pathogens.

The best way to protect yourself when spending time outdoors is to remember the 4Ds. Watch the video below to learn how to learn about personal protection and property maintenance tips:

The 4Ds: Protect Yourself from Dangerous Mosquitoes

1. DEFEND

Consistently wear and reapply an EPA-approved repellent when outdoors

The safest and most effective repellents should contain 10-30% DEET (N,N Diethyl-meta-toluamide).
Always follow manufacturer guidelines found on the label to ensure safe and optimal product use.
Review the EPA’s list of registered insect repellents – www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/find-repellent-right-you
Keep dogs and cats safe, too, with preventative heartworm medication.

2. DRESS

Wear closed-toe shoes, light colors, and long sleeves and pants to keep your skin protected.

Mosquitoes are more attracted to darker clothing.
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes are more effective at preventing mosquito bites.
Bare skin on your hands, ankles, face, neck, or other areas should be protected with mosquito repellent.

3. DRAIN

Mosquitoes require standing water to reproduce.

Empty and prevent future water collection in outdoor tools and objects like tires, tarps, buckets, birdbaths, basketball goals, wheelbarrows, and lawn care equipment.
Ensure water can drain properly from gutters, flower pots, watering cans, rain barrels, low-lying ditches, and stormwater pipes and structures.

4. DUSK & DAWN

Limit spending time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active.

Mosquitoes can become dehydrated in direct sunlight.
During the day, mosquitoes typically linger in cool, shaded places like thick weeds, ivy, bushes, and wood piles.

Self-protection goes hand-in-hand with public education. Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) programs are most effective when efforts are reinforced by the surrounding community. When state, regional, and municipal entities partner with a professional management company, they get access to industry experts who regularly present and work with health departments, churches, schools, libraries, senior homes, local clubs, and other groups to ensure they receive accurate information about the mosquito species, diseases, and tools used in the area. Educational resources can be disseminated through a variety of channels to inform citizens about up-to-date news, safety warnings, and mosquito prevention reminders.

It’s important to remember that mosquitoes are not hindered by geographical boundaries. In fact, some species can travel many miles for a blood meal. When knowledgeable citizens work together, they can have a significant impact that benefits the entire community and help maximize the results of their local integrated mosquito management program.

Contact Our Experts

Fill out the form below or call our experts at 866.977.6964 so that they can help you develop a custom IMM program to meet your community’s needs.

Since 1992, Vector Disease Control International (VDCI) has taken pride in providing municipalities, mosquito abatement districts, industrial sites, planned communities, homeowners associations, and golf courses with the tools they need to run effective mosquito control programs. We are determined to protect the public health of the communities in which we operate. Our mosquito control professionals have over 100 years of combined experience in the field of public health, specifically vector disease control. We strive to provide the most effective and scientifically sound mosquito surveillance and control programs possible based on an Integrated Mosquito Management approach recommended by the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VDCI is the only company in the country that can manage all aspects of an integrated mosquito management program, from surveillance to disease testing to aerial application in emergency situations.

Integrated Mosquito Management

Behind the Scenes Look: Utilizing Technology for Successful Surveillance & Disease Testing

VDCI lab testing vial mosquito control education

Mosquito Surveillance & Disease Testing Technologies

Responsible mosquito management involves targeting mosquitoes at all stages of their lifecycle. A holistic, integrated approach is the most effective strategy to halt population growth and prevent the spread of deadly diseases while reducing environmental footprint.

Mosquito surveillance is the cornerstone of an integrated mosquito management (IMM) program. This begins with assessing breeding sites and eliminating mosquitoes at the larval stage. By analyzing population dynamics and species distribution, adult mosquitoes can be safely and effectively controlled. Proactive mosquito surveillance programs and data collection also allow scientists to optimize the use of insecticides and limit spraying to specific areas at precise times. These mosquito surveillance techniques reduce the chance of insecticide resistance, which can create additional challenges and expenses for stakeholders.

Highly targeted, carefully formulated insecticides are used by experts to safely control mosquitoes and mitigate the risk of vector-borne disease transmission. Though insecticides are an impactful tool in mosquito management, it’s possible for mosquitoes to become resistant to them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) if mortality drops to a rate of less than 90%, the mosquito population is considered insecticide resistant.

Insecticide resistance typically occurs during prolonged exposure to insecticides used during the management process. Continued use in moderately susceptible populations can result in the selection of resistant individuals and loss of insecticide sensitivity in certain areas—something that is particularly dangerous during large mosquito outbreaks following rainstorms, hurricanes, and other serious weather events. Insecticide resistance not only contributes to wasted time and resources but it also endangers communities through increased disease transmission.

The best way to prevent insecticide resistance is ongoing mosquito surveillance and monitoring. IMM programs incorporate strategic mosquito surveillance and monitoring efforts throughout the management season to gather information about species bionomics, active periods, host preferences, and the presence of disease. This knowledge about local mosquito populations is used to determine the severity of a nuisance outbreak and inform control efforts.

Scientists have multiple ways to collect information. Each method is selected based on the unique challenges a community is facing.

CDC Light Traps

These mosquito surveillance light traps, which were developed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, are considered the industry standard for mosquito surveillance and collection. Like the New Jersey light trap, it attracts many different species, but it is portable. A 6V battery powers a motorized fan that circulates carbon dioxide (CO2) as an attractant. Once they enter the mosquito surveillance trap, mosquitoes are sucked into a collection device. CDC traps are most effective when deployed at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.