Florida’s American giant mosquito

Updated on: June 26, 2026

Quick overview

• Florida is home to some of the largest mosquitoes in the US, including the American giant mosquito
• These mosquitoes are most commonly seen after periods of heavy rainfall
• Although their bite can be more painful than that of many other mosquitoes, they don’t carry any significant diseases
• Mosquito numbers vary from year to year depending on rainfall, flooding, and local habitat conditions.

The Sunshine State is no stranger to mosquitoes, but not all of them are created equal. While most species are small and easy to overlook, a particular species stands out for its impressive size and aggressive bite.

What are the big mosquitoes in Florida called?

Florida is home to a wide variety of mosquito species, but one stands out for its sheer size: the American giant mosquito. This species is one of the largest mosquitoes found in the United States and is native to Florida, despite headlines suggesting otherwise.

The hairy-legged creatures are said to be bigger than a dime but smaller than a quarter.

Although many news outlets have reported the anticipated rise in American giant mosquito populations as an invasion, the mosquito occurs naturally in Florida. It prefers to lay its eggs in pasturelands and low-lying areas where rainwater collects, which can make mosquito control more challenging after heavy rainfall.

Far from being an outsider, it's simply one of many species that make up Florida's diverse mosquito population, which includes both black and blue varieties.

Do American giant mosquitoes bite?

American giant mosquitoes are known for their painful bites and can bite through clothing and fur. The blood-sucking pest finds its targets by detecting carbon dioxide in human breath and heat radiating from our bodies.

The American giant mosquito bites hosts using a saw-like mechanism in its mouth that drills into the skin. The painful aspect of their bite occurs when the pest releases the mechanism.

“One thing that’s very interesting about these giant mosquitoes is that they are aggressive biters,” says Dr. Nancy Troyano, one of the lead etomologists at Rentokil North America. “Usually mosquitoes that are biters of man are what we call crepuscular, meaning they come out at dawn or at dusk to bite you. What makes this species of mosquito special is that it will land on you at any time of the day and bite you. Luckily, these critters Psorophora ciliata mostly bite horses and cattle due to their preference for living in pasture, and just incidentally bite humans.”

This mosquito is one of many mosquito species in Florida, highlighting the state's diverse mosquito population.

Are American giant mosquitoes dangerous?

Fortunately, these mega mosquitoes do not carry diseases like some smaller mosquito species.  Scientists have even found that the nasty insects can be cannibalistic. American giant mosquito larvae have been documented feeding on each other and on frog tadpoles.

In Florida, other biting insects, like biting midges, can also cause irritation and discomfort, especially for those spending time outdoors near water sources. Their tiny size can make them harder to notice, but their bites can leave behind itchy marks. If you're dealing with these pests, Ehrlich provides pest control services to help reduce their presence.

If you need mosquito pest control to avoid bites, Ehrlich will reduce mosquito populations by creating a barrier around your home or building to keep them out. For more information on our mosquito-related services, learn about mosquitoes.

What you need to know about the American giant mosquito

Description

• One of the largest mosquitoes in the U.S.
• Largest in FL
• Wingspan around a quarter of an inch, and impressive when they land on humans
• Painful bite
• Aggressive biters- bite any time of day
• 1-2 mile flight range.

Biology

• Flood water/ new water mosquito
• Lays eggs on damp, flood-prone ground –particularly damp soil with grassy overgrowth like in pastures
• Overall have seen fewer of these mosquitoes as pastureland gets developed
• NOT a known disease carrier.

Are these mosquitoes common every year?

“It’s still going to be partially weather dependent,” says Troyano. “In general, Florida has been seeing less of these mosquitoes in recent years because of the rate at which pastureland is being developed.”

If you're concerned about mosquito activity around your home, find out more about our mosquito control services.