You Can Learn More about Mosquitoes

Much has been published and is available in libraries about mosquitoes and their effect on mankind. You can also learn a great deal by watching mosquito larvae, pupae, and adults. Most larvae and pupae come to the water's surface to get oxygen and can be captured by dipping the surface of the water with a cup. Sometimes, the larvae and pupae are quicker than the hand and dive to avoid capture. Once caught however, they can be confined in a small dish of water, and studied for their type, behavior, growth, and structure. The adult mosquito can best be captured in the act of biting by inverting a vial or small jar over her. When disturbed, she will fly up into the container, which can then be quickly capped. A short time in the freezer will immobilize the adult for closer examination.