The head also has 2 long feelers or antennae which are sensitive to smell, touch and moisture in the air. Male mosquitoes have very feathery brush-like antennae while the female has only a few small hairs. Mosquitoes are easily recognized by their mouthparts. A long needle-like proboscis sticks out from the head which is actually a greatly elongated lower lip. The females have a tube with 6 fine needles used to pierce skin to suck blood.
Blood appears to be necessary for development of eggs.
Males do not have piercing mouthparts. Both males and females suck nectar and plant juices. Mosquitoes are very hardy, surviving even arctic conditions. Read our privacy statement.