Mosquitoes in South Florida

South Florida’s combination of warm temperatures, abundant rainfall, and standing water creates near-perfect mosquito conditions year-round. The CDC classifies mosquitoes as the world’s deadliest animal — responsible for more human deaths globally than any other creature. In South Florida, multiple mosquito species capable of transmitting serious diseases are active throughout the year.

Mosquito Species in South Florida

Aedes aegypti (Yellow Fever Mosquito)

The primary vector for dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever in Florida. These are daytime biters, most active in early morning and late afternoon. They breed in very small amounts of standing water — including the water in a bottle cap. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, Aedes aegypti populations are highest in Palm Beach and Broward counties.

Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito)

Recognizable by bold black-and-white striped legs. Also a daytime biter capable of transmitting dengue and chikungunya. Extremely aggressive — will bite through clothing and pursue hosts persistently. Breeds in any container holding water: tires, buckets, plant saucers.

Culex quinquefasciatus (Southern House Mosquito)

The primary vector for West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis in South Florida. Unlike Aedes species, Culex mosquitoes bite at night and breed in larger water sources — standing pools, storm drains, retention ponds, and ditches. These are the mosquitoes most commonly disrupting outdoor evening activities.

Diseases Mosquitoes Carry in South Florida

• West Nile Virus: Transmitted by Culex mosquitoes. Most cases are mild but can cause serious neurological illness in elderly and immunocompromised individuals.
• Dengue Fever: Transmitted by Aedes aegypti. Cases reported annually in South Florida, especially in communities with close ties to the Caribbean and Central America.
• Zika Virus: Transmitted by Aedes aegypti. Caused a significant local transmission outbreak in Miami-Dade County. Serious risk to pregnant women.
• Eastern Equine Encephalitis: Transmitted by Culiseta and Aedes species. Rare but has very high mortality — Florida sees cases most years.
• Chikungunya: Transmitted by both Aedes aegypti and tiger mosquitoes. Causes severe joint pain that can persist for months.

Where Mosquitoes Breed in South Florida

• Standing water in any container — plant saucers, bird baths, buckets, tarps, gutters, pool covers
• Retention ponds, drainage canals, and ditches throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties
• Low spots in the lawn that hold water after rain
• Dense vegetation that stays damp — under decks, along fence lines, in shrub beds
• Neglected swimming pools and ornamental ponds without proper circulation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there really a mosquito season in South Florida?

South Florida has year-round mosquito activity — but pressure peaks from May through October during the rainy season. The dry season (November–April) brings some relief, but warm temperatures mean mosquitoes are never fully dormant in Palm Beach or Broward county.

Are the small tan mosquitoes different from the big ones?

Yes — Aedes aegypti and tiger mosquitoes are smaller, striped, and daytime biters. The larger Culex mosquitoes are the nighttime biters most active around dusk and dawn. Both require professional treatment, but different treatment timing is more effective for each species.

I have a pool — does that attract mosquitoes?

A properly maintained and circulating pool does not breed mosquitoes — moving water prevents larvae from surviving. The risk comes from pool covers that collect rainwater, equipment areas that hold standing water, or pool toys left outside.

Professional Mosquito Control in South Florida

Don’t let mosquito take over your home. Bugsy’s Pest Solutions is a veteran-owned pest control company serving Palm Beach and Broward counties. Our certified technicians eliminate mosquito with guaranteed, eco-friendly treatments. Call (561) 654-8998 or request a free estimate. See our full mosquito control service page for treatment details.