East Central New Jersey’s mix of coastal marshes, suburban neighborhoods, woodlands, and tidal wetlands supports a variety of mosquito species. While more than 60 species exist across the state, only a handful are responsible for most of the biting and nuisance activity residents experience and some are known carriers of diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis.
Knowing which mosquito species are common in this area helps homeowners better understand when and where they are most active and why certain weather conditions cause sudden surges in activity.
One of the most aggressive and widespread mosquitoes in suburban neighborhoods.
Easily identified by black-and-white striped legs and body.
Active mostly during the daytime, especially mornings and late afternoons.
Breeds in small containers, gutters, planters, birdbaths, and other standing water near homes.
Thrives in warm, humid summer weather.
Strong-flying species commonly found in coastal and marsh areas, especially along the Jersey Shore.
Breeds in brackish tidal pools and marshland — often appearing in large numbers after high tides and heavy rains.
Bites aggressively, mainly at dawn and dusk, and can travel miles inland.
Nighttime biters most active from dusk through early morning.
Breeds in stagnant, organic water — storm drains, clogged gutters, birdbaths, retention ponds.
Primary carriers of West Nile virus in New Jersey.
Populations increase rapidly during hot, humid weather in midsummer.
