Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Certain Colors?

Summer in Virginia means enjoying the great outdoors, flocking to our many beaches, or camping with friends and family. All of them share one thing in common: mosquitoes. It’s a question as old as time, or at least as old as the pesky mosquito. Do these little blood-suckers have a preference when it comes to what they’re biting? Are some colors more likely to attract mosquitoes than others? As it turns out, the answer is a bit complicated. While there is some evidence to suggest that mosquitoes may be attracted to certain colors, there are also other factors that attract mosquitoes to you. 

What Attracts Mosquitoes to You?

Mosquitoes use a variety of methods to locate their hosts. Aside from their excellent vision, these insects can also identify specific scents and even temperature changes. Mosquitoes are attracted to your breath, sweat, and blood. 

Breath

Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, produced when humans exhale, which can be detected by mosquitoes for up to 150 feet. When they sense a high concentration of carbon dioxide, it can indicate the presence of a host. 

Sweat

In addition to lactic acid, uric acid, and ammonia, mosquitoes can detect several compounds in human sweat. During the summer, being outside increases your body temperature and results in sweating, which is a bigger target for mosquitoes. 

Blood Type

Believe it or not, mosquitoes are attracted to certain blood types. People with Type O blood are bitten nearly twice as often as those with Type A.

What Colors Attract Mosquitoes?

If you are planning on spending the evening outdoors, you might want to consider what you’re wearing. Most people don’t realize that mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors such as red, orange, black, and cyan. 

Can Mosquitoes See Color?

Yes, color can attract mosquitoes. According to the University of Florida, mosquitoes rely on their vision to find hosts in the evening when the sun is setting. Wearing dark-colored clothing can make you stand out more to mosquitoes. 

Should I Avoid Wearing Certain Colors?

Yes, you should avoid wearing dark colors to prevent mosquitoes from being attracted to you. Dress in light colors and loose-fitting clothing to avoid mosquito bites.

What are Ways to Repel Mosquitoes?

There are a few different ways that people have found to be effective in repelling mosquitoes. Some of these methods are:

Use Mosquito Repellent 

Repellants are a great way to keep mosquitoes off of you. Mosquito repellents work by covering your natural scents with scents that mosquitoes can’t stand. The most effective mosquito repelling products contain DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, and Picaridin.

Natural Mosquito Repellants

One of the most common natural scents that mosquitoes can’t stand is citronella. Citronella is also the main ingredient found in mosquito candles and tiki torches oils is citronella. Other natural mosquito repellants include:

Are Mosquitoes Dangerous? 

Mosquitoes are dangerous because they are carriers of deadly diseases. West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. But mosquitoes can also spread other diseases, like Eastern equine encephalitis or St. Louis encephalitis. 

When Should You Call A Professional Mosquito Exterminator?

If mosquitoes are making it impossible for you to enjoy your outdoor spaces then it’s time to call a professional exterminator. At Agronomic Lawn Management we have years of experience in mosquito control and can get your yard back in no time. Contact us today for a free quote!