Mosquitoes

Introduction

These are generally thought of as a pest species, and are considered the most deadly animal on the planet, since it kills more humans than any other species.

Food for Others

As their persecution increases, the animals who rely on them for food are struggling to find food, or worse, end up consuming the poisons intended for mosquitos. 

Pollination

Another lesser-known benefit of mosquitoes is that the males only feed on flowers, making them an unappreciated pollinator in wetter ecosystems.

Should We Make Mosquitoes Extinct?

7:35 minute video explains how scientists used to believe we could make mosquitoes go extinct via genetic alterations (tests on wild populations have shown that the species adapt too quickly for this to be effective). The video explores the benefits of mosquitoes as well as what we could lose or open the gates for if we did manage to eliminate them.

Predators

As we continue to push the magority of insect life towards extinction, moquitoes have been breeding rampantly, creating a vital source of food for many predator and omnivorous species.

Amphibians

Frogs

Terrestrial Frogs

Tree Frogs

Toads

Birds

Hummingbirds

These tiny birds are famous for pollinating and feeding from flowers, but they also need a source of protein. Moquitoes are the perfect size for hummers, who need plenty of insects to feed their growing chicks.

Fish

Fish have been seen eating adult mosquitoes, but they are probably better at eating them while in their larval stage. Aquatic species also eat mosquito eggs.

Insects

Dragonflies

Spiders

Mammals

Bats

Resources & Guides

North America

Organizations

North America

Canada

Maps

North America