The Twin Cities North region including areas such as Blaine, Shoreview, Lino Lakes, and Andover is surrounded by wetlands, lakes, and wooded spaces that create ideal habitats for mosquitoes. With over 50 mosquito species found in Minnesota, only a few are commonly encountered by residents or known to impact daily life, outdoor comfort, and health.
These species differ in where they breed, when they bite, and which diseases they may carry. Understanding them helps homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts stay more informed and better protected throughout mosquito season.
One of the most abundant mosquitoes in Minnesota.
Breeds in temporary water pools formed by spring snowmelt or heavy rainfall.
Aggressive biter, mostly active at dusk and dawn.
Does not typically spread disease but causes widespread nuisance due to large population surges.
Common in forested and shaded areas.
Breeds in snowmelt pools in the spring — one of the first species to emerge each year.
Bites during the day, particularly along wooded trails, parks, and lakeshore areas.
Traditionally more common in southern states, but isolated cases have been detected in Minnesota in recent years.
Daytime biters that breed in artificial containers like buckets, gutters, or birdbaths.
Known vectors for dengue, Zika, and chikungunya in warmer regions — but local transmission in Minnesota is currently very rare.
More common in mid-to-late summer when temperatures and humidity rise.
Breeds in stagnant water with organic material — storm drains, birdbaths, puddles, or clogged gutters.
Primary carrier of West Nile virus in Minnesota.
Most active from dusk through early evening.
